James E. Sullivan

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For other persons named James Sullivan, see James Sullivan (disambiguation).

James Edward Sullivan (November 18, 1862 in New York City – September 16, 1914) was an American sports official. He was one of the founders of the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU), and served as its president from 1906 to 1908.

He also was one of the most influential people in the early Olympic movement, although his relationship with IOC president Pierre de Coubertin was tense. Sullivan was also an organizer of the Outdoor Recreation League and served as its second president.

Sullivan also served on the New York Board of Education from 1908-1912.

In 1930, the AAU established the James E. Sullivan Award in his honour. It is awarded annually to the best amateur athlete in the US.