Jim is a 1994 graduate of Marathana Baptist Bible College, where he earned a degree in secondary math education and competed on the wrestling team. Following graduation, Jim moved to Colorado Springs to become a member of the resident athlete program at the Olympic Training Center. While at the training center, Jim, along with Tony, began hosting Wednesday night Bible studies. These Bible studies were the foundation for the ministry that became Ambassador Sports International.

Jim was a two-time member of the U.S. Olympic Greco Roman wrestling team, finishing sixth at the 2000 Olympics and tenth at the 2004 Games. Additionally, Jim was a three time U.S. champion, winning titles in 2003, 2004, and 2008, his last year of competitive wrestling.

From 2005-2009, Jim served as the Assistant U.S. Greco Roman Wrestling at the Olympic Education Center in Marquette, MI. As assistant coach, he was responsible for recruiting athletes, providing nutritional information, and designing and implementing various strength and conditioning workouts.

In 2009, Jim accepted a position at Wheaton College, where he currently serves as the school’s head wrestling coach. Jim and his wife Rachel have seven children: son Adin and six daughters, Arwyn, Ava, Autumn, Aleyse, Ashley, and Amber.