James William Masters known as “Judy” Masters or “The Little Master” was recognised as Australia’s best soccer player during his time. Born on 21 May 1892 in Balgownie, Judy was the 7th of 13 children; eight brothers and five sisters, all of whom were educated at Balgownie School. His father, Alexander George Masters was a miner from Nova Scotia, Canada and his mother, a Sydney born woman, Frances Eliza nee Campbell.
Judy began school at the age of 5 and joined the Balgownie Rangers soccer team which is still in existence and according to a report Judy wrote for the club in 1946, “Balgownie Soccer Club is one of the oldest soccer clubs in N.S.W… During the 1920’s the following players constantly were playing for Australia…” Judy was at a disadvantage, he was not tall and lightly built and to overcome the “heavies” in that era he mastered the art of agility and ball control; he was very young when selected in the first team and was soon given the key position of centre forward.
In 1915 he joined the army at the age of 23 and embarked on HMAT Ceramic A40. His service included: Egypt, Gallipoli and France where he became a stretcher bearer and bandsman.
Judy also resumed his sports career and from 1923 to 1928, he captained Australia in 22 international soccer games against New Zealand, China (twice), Canada, English professionals and Czechoslovakia.
From the age of 15, he played 401 club matches and scored 351 goals. In over 400 games, he was never cautioned.
Following his retirement from soccer, he maintained an interest in all local matters. He was Bandmaster of Balgownie Brass Band for many years and always supported soccer in coaching and management positions; he continued this for the remainder of his life.
Judy also enlisted in the Second World War on 17 May 1942. He was discharged on 17 April 1944 as his “services were no longer required.”
Judy passed away on 2 December 1955 at his home town of Balgownie at the age of 63. The Balgownie soccer ground was named in his honour: Judy Masters Park In 1981, he was inducted into the Hall of Champions at Homebush and in 1999 he was honoured in the Australian Soccer Hall of Champions.
This cache could be potentially difficult depending on whether there is a soccer match on or not so be prepared to use some stealth! This cache is a bison tube that can not be removed from its spot so please untwist it and not pull it off.