James came from Kyabram and was the eldest of seven brothers[2] and after playing in their 1919[3] Goulburn Valley Football League premiership team and then after "starring" in Kyabram's losing 1920 first semi final match,[4] James played his only VFL game in Richmond's 1920 VFL grand final premiership side.
[5] He helped Richmond earn the Tigers their inaugural VFL premiership, with his only goal late in the last quarter sealing the victory.
[6] James was retrospectively awarded a Richmond FC life membership for his contribution in 2017.
[7] According to legend, James was accidentally shot in the foot whilst out hunting prior to the commencement of the 1921 season, an injury which supposedly ended his football career.
[11] James was elected as the secretary of the Kyabram Football Club in 1926, a position he held until 1928, after the shooting injury ended his playing career.