James interest in sports began at an early age with the “Ryon Sports Baseball Organization”, under the leadership of Mr. Herman “Coach Boola” Smith and would continue to grow with the tutorship of Billie Matthews (football) and Henry Stevenson (baseball), his high school coaches. James was a two-sport star for the Rams football and baseball teams. He took his positions very seriously and it showed on the field and James excelled as a student-athlete in the classroom as well. He had a bruising running style which made it difficult for one player to bring him down, which led “Jack”( as he was widely known) to be named two-time All-District as well as All-City and All-State in football.  He also was an outstanding catcher on the 1965 State Championship Baseball team where he  was selected All-City and All-District as a junior and then again his senior season. During the 60’s the Ryon Sports Organization was a major contributor to Kashmere’s baseball program as the 1965 State Championship team had eight Sports players on the roster.  They fulfilled a bold prediction made by Mrs Grimsby their elementary school principal, as she stated that they would bring a championship title to Kashmere.  His senior year they would finish state runner-up, spoiling their chance of winning back to back titles.  Jack earned the respect of his peers as he was named senior class “Most Athletic Male”.  He would earn seven letters before graduating in 1966, three in football and four in baseball.  

After graduating in 1966, James received a baseball scholarship to Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana but decided to accept a football scholarship to Prairie View A&M University. After leaving Prairie View, James went to work for Chicago Bridge & Iron. During his tenure at CB&I he received numerous awards and accolades, that can only be credited to a strong work ethic and foundation built through membership and disciplined athletic programs. He retired in 2011 with 43 years of service. James is a lifetime member of New Hope Baptist Church, his Pastor is Carlton Sylvester. James is the proud father of six from a blended family and grandfather of four, who adore him dearly. James still has a deep love for the sports he played; he just plays them from the comfort of his recliner while watching them on television.