Pride (2007)

It is 1974 and life is not easy for an African-American male, even a college-educated one like Jim Ellis (Terrence Howard), to find employment. Struggling to find anything better, Jim, a former competitive swimmer, accepts the job of dismantling the dilapidated Marcus Foster Recreation Center operated by the Philadelphia Department of Recreation. The center includes a swimming pool. Ellis' presence immediately causes some friction between him and a bitter, protective janitor named Elston (Bernie Mac) who works there. One day, Jim sees a group of troubled black teens who have just been thrown off the basketball court and invites them for a swim. Andre (Kevin Phillips), Hakim (Nate Parker), Reggie (Evan Ross), Puddin’ Head (Brandon Fobbs), and Walt (Alphonso McAuley) prove to be fairly capable swimmers and with a few pointers, could become great swimmers. With some help from Elston, Jim decides to try and save the public swimming pool by starting the city’s first all African-American swim team. When the team also acquires Willie (Regine Nehy), a female swimmer more gifted than any of the guys, the prospects of competing against much more experienced rival teams begin to seem more positive. Throughout their struggles, in or out of the swimming pool, Jim embraces and mentors the kids, hoping to help them become successful at swimming and in all aspects of their lives. [imdb]