From James's mum, Trish
Dear Dave
I know I have spoken to you on a few occasions to let you know how much I
appreciate all you have done for us and the remembrance book. But I have
wanted to write and let you all know how much it means to me.
You have all so eloquently captured the essence of James' personality and
words cannot say how much your memories mean. Many of your tales I remember
Jay relating - he loved Ultimate and you guys so much - and nearly always
came back from a practice in a peaceful or upbeat mood - and tournaments
were such fun.
Many a time when Jay was 13/14 I thanked Ultimate practice on Sunday for
keeping him occupied and wearing him out! As you all appreciated, James had
huge amounts of energy and enthusiasm for anything he was passionate about
- and yes, Ultimate was definitely there up at the top. Ultimate and
especially Strange Blue enabled James to be himself and be appreciated for
what he was - enthusiastic, athletic, brash, caring, sensitive - one of the
team.
He loved going to the tournaments and you guys looked after him so well - I
was never worried (well - I was occasionally when he told me the tales of
what you all got up to!). He loved being outdoors and doing his cooking -
yes I remember well getting the bacon, bread etc for those weekends away -
and how he enjoyed being a part of the 'grown-up' goings on. You were so
kind - subbing him at the tournaments - taking him off for meals, looking
out for him and generally encouraging him.
He gained so much from all his time with you and Ultimate definitely helped
to form him into the wonderful young man he became.
Like you we are so saddened and absolutely devastated to lose our wonderful
son. James brought so much enthusiasm and fun with him and the world is a
quieter place without him. I can only say thank you for all that you have
done for James, Gully, Mark and myself.
David McNeilly - yes Matt R did pass on your cap to James - and he always
treasured it - it became a part of his cap collection.
I'm afraid I cannot give you any further explanations as to why James had
to leave us. As you know he had been in the Army for nearly 3 years and we
didn't see a huge amount of him - when he was home he was out with his
mates and at Ultimate! I can only think he had as the French would say, an
'emotional accident', which tragically was fatal.
Thank you all and especially Dave M for all your kindness and support -
there are not many young people who have the good fortune as James did to
meet such a great group of people. The remembrance book helps me get
through the difficult times - making me laugh and cry - I really cannot
express how important your memories are - they truly encapsulate the spirit
of Jay.
If you by any chance have any video footage of James, we would very much
appreciate a copy.
Take care all of you and keep playing rude-boy devil-may-care Ultimate.
Trish
Thu 18/10/01