Georgia Coleman was an American diver who is best known for winning Olympic medals in diving, including a gold medal in 1932. She gained fame for her remarkable achievements in the sport during the late 1920s and early 1930s.
Personal and Family Life
Georgia Coleman was born on January 23, 1912, in St. Maries, Idaho. She started diving at a young age and quickly became a prominent athlete, making the Olympic team at just sixteen. Her dedication to the sport and natural talent helped her excel in diving competitions.
Career Highlights
Georgia made a significant mark in diving by winning a bronze medal in women’s springboard diving and a silver medal in women’s platform diving at the 1928 Olympics. She followed this success by winning a gold medal in women’s springboard diving and another silver in the same event at the 1932 Olympics. Notably, she was the first woman to perform a 2 1/2 forward somersault in a competitive setting, showcasing her innovative skills in the sport.
Death and Legacy
Tragically, Georgia Coleman contracted polio in 1937, which impacted her health. Despite her adversity, she managed to learn to swim again. Unfortunately, she passed away from pneumonia on September 14, 1940, at the young age of twenty-eight. Coleman’s legacy lives on as a pioneer in women’s diving and an inspiration to future generations of athletes.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Home and Away | Grace (1 episode) |
| 1931 | Palmy Days | Swimmer (uncredited) |
| 1931 | Movie-Town | Champion Diver (uncredited) |