The VAFA Community is sad to hear of the recent passing of former President and Life Member James (Jim) Hawkins.
Jim was a respected and strong leader on the VAFA Executive from the early 1980’s and then as President from 1987 to 1989. He was awarded VAFA Life Membership in 1989.
Jim was captain of De La Salle College and its football team and then played for St Kevin’s Old Boys after leaving school. At just 21 years of age, Jim was a driving force in establishing the De La Salle Amateur Football Club in the VAFA’s E Grade competition in 1955.
He was captain for the first two years, leading the club to a premiership & promotion to D Grade in its inaugural year. Jim retired in 1957 and then turned to umpiring for 5 years, before returning to the club in the 60’s as a committeeman and then President in 1970 and 1971. He was awarded Life Membership of the Club in 1972.
Fellow Life Member Richard Evans recalled meeting Jim in 1971 in his first introduction to the monthly Association meetings at the Amateur Sports Club off Queen St.
“It was to a shy young man somewhat of a daunting experience. I was lucky. By my shyness and his perception Jim Hawkins introduced himself and suggested I sit with him. What a blessing. He showed me ‘the ropes’. Introduced me to those in the VAFA hierarchy that counted, but more than that, showed me a warmth of acceptance and great humility. Jim and I became the greatest of friends. I have never forgot what he did for me. Jim didn’t suffer fools. He was thoughtful and honest. Never reticent in offering his opinion; what he did was for the very best interests of our great Association.”
Current VAFA Director Martin Kelliher noted the influence Jim had on establishing De La Salle Amateur FC.
“Along with John Dillon and Tony O’Callaghan, Jim helped to found the Club . (Jim) played in the early days 1955-58 and was a very tough and uncompromising person on and off the field. He was President of the Club, helped set up the initial Under 19 team. He always had a soft spot for the battlers and guys who tried because they probably represented him and he would make a point of supporting those kids who had a go.”
The funeral Service for Jim Hawkins will be held at St Michael’s Church, 268 High St Ashburton, at 11.30am on Thursday 3rd July 2025.
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