James Marney, or Uncle James, or as the Maties rugby players call him “Jamo" is the stalwart of the Maties Rugby Club. As you will hear from his story, James joined Stellenbosch University in 1987 at Minerva women's residence in the storeroom. Over the next decade, he divided his time among Minerva, the squash courts, and Coetzenburg athletics fields, whereafter his journey with Maties Sport started.

In 1998, James started working in Maties Rugby's kit room, overseeing the general washing and maintenance of the club's kit and team equipment, while also taking care of the office and the Coetzenburg club. Over the years Uncle James has seen many great Maties Rugby teams on the field, and many players who went on to become Springboks. And whenever an old boy comes to visit, you will hear: “Is Uncle James nog hier?"

It is in the kit room where James built many years of relationships with the players, coaches, and the large extended family of Maties Rugby internally and externally. His remarkable, calm, and pleasant personality is augmented by kindness, helpfulness, and a great sense of humour.

His years of faithful service spread over more than three decades and the Danie Craven Stadium became his haven where he could live out his love for rugby, for our students, and Coetzenburg.

James's many years of service also speaks to his love of the game and Maties Rugby. When asked recently if he ever got tired of doing the same work, he responded with “nee, ek geniet dit nog baie".

James is not only part of the club's furniture and a very loved colleague – he is also a father figure for many young up-and-coming players. His 34 years of service are worth celebrating. It is, for this reason, we would like to recognise Uncle James with this award. Thank you for your invaluable service to our Institution.​

Watch James's video here