[3] Pimm grew up in what was then a Collingwood recruitment zone, around Wattle Glen, Victoria.

He attended Melbourne High School and watched Collingwood training sessions from an early age.

[4] Pimm, a centre half-forward, played five senior games as well as games in the seconds for Collingwood in the 1940 VFL season but did not play again until 1946, the lengthy interruption being due to his World War II military service.

Later, on Bougainville Island he was awarded the Military Cross "for inspired and gallant service".

[5][11] At wars end he was transferred to the 11th Brigade for a time, prior to repatriation from the South West Pacific and discharge from the Army.