It is with the deepest sadness that we must announce that former NISOA National Referee, Jeff “Jeep” James passed away after a long battle with cancer on April 13, 2019 at his residence in the town of Parishville, New York with friends and family by his side. Jeff was 56 years old. The funeral took place on April 20, 2019 with members of the community waiting in line over 5 hours in a misty rain to pay their final respects; a testament to all of the lives he positively impacted.

Jeff James (middle) at a NYSHSAA championship match

Jeff was a true leader for the referee community both on and off the field. His collegiate soccer officiating career started in 1999 and included over 450 matches, of which 70 of them were NCAA postseason assignments, culminating with being appointed as the referee for 2 NJCAA Championship matches. During his career, Jeff officiated across all divisions of NCAA. Many of his assignments came from working in the ACC, American East, Big East, Ivy League, MAAC, and the Patriot League.

Off the field, Jeff was extremely instrumental developing the soccer referee community in northern New York State, having served as the past President of the New York State ISOA & the local Northern New York ISOA chapter. Jeff was also actively involved in the assessment & mentoring program within his area. In recognition of his contributions to the soccer referee community, Jeff will be inducted into the New York State High School (NYSHS) Soccer Hall of Fame in November at the NYSHS Boy’s State Championships.

Please visit this link below to view a tribute video celebrating the life of Jeff James. Jeff’s family requested that donations be made in his name to Hospice and Palliative Care of St. Lawrence Valley