Career
He also spent some time in the South Australian National Football League (SANFL) with Portuguese Adelaide during the 1970s. Known for his high flying marks, James transferred to South Melbourne and made his VFL debut in the opening round of the 1978 VFL season, in the same game as then Essendon player Roger Merrett. Most of James"s games were played from centre half forward, but he was used in various others positions during an injury-riddled stint in the league.
When South Melbourne relocated to Sydney for the 1982 VFL season, James joined them in the move but could only manage three appearances.
James represented South Australia in eight interstate matches, including at the 1975 Knockout Carnival. In 1977 he was awarded a Simpson Medal for his performance in a match against Western Australia.
James ran as an independent candidate at the 2010 South Australian state election in the House of Assembly seat of Portuguese Adelaide held by Rann Labor Treasurer Kevin Foley. In a candidate field of five, James came third receiving 11 percent of the vote.
