Born in Victoria in 1952, James (Jim) Cain grew up in James Bay playing all the sports that his mother could afford. A Little League Baseball catcher, he was also a "Bat Boy" at Royal Athletic Park.
In 1961, Jim was introduced to men's Hockey by his mentor, Art "Pop" Green Sr. Jim was a stick boy in the Commercial Hockey League at Memorial Arena where he taped sticks, filled water bottles and observed Art treat injuries and develop special relationships with the players. He took on equipment duties and at age 25, became Head Trainer for the Esquimalt Maple Leafs. Around this time, Jim was introduced to Sports Therapist Wes Byrnell (GVSHOF inductee 2000), who also mentored him in taping techniques and treating injuries. Jim complemented his practical skills by taking sports medicine courses and earning a Leadership Degree at Camosun College. He became Head Trainer for the London Boxing Club and Victoria Athletics Soccer team, and also coached Special Olympics swimming.
Jim is best known for his many years of service with the Victoria Shamrocks Lacrosse team. In 1978, Bill Munroe (Head Coach) and Art Webster asked him to be an Assistant Trainer. Jim worked alongside Wes Byrnell and Denny Morris and in 1982, was named Head Trainer. Jim spent 37 years as the Head Trainer and, according to former player and Head Coach Walt Christianson, “his commitment to the team was second to none." Jim was a vital part of 15 teams that represented Victoria at the Mann Cup National Championships, winning seven titles.
Jim cared deeply about players health and safety. He helped the players prepare mentally and physically for each game and was responsible for treating injuries, ensuring equipment was repaired, water bottles were sanitized and uniforms were washed for the next game. "Jimbo" is affectionately remembered and loved by hundreds of players and team personnel who worked with him over the years.
In recognition of his achievement and service to the club, the Shamrocks enshrined a plaque in his honour on their Wall of Fame. The team also proudly supported Jim's 2017 induction into the Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Fame. Of special note, he is the only Trainer to be inducted to the Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Fame. Chris Welch (Shamrock GM and Governor) stated: "Cain was always there for the team, putting the team first and always representing what it means to be a Shamrock.”
Over the years, Jim has crossed paths with many players who have benefitted from his contributions. He was Head Trainer for the Canadian National men’s team (1994 World Field Lacrosse Championships Silver), Victoria Seaspray Field Lacrosse team (two-time Canadian Champions) and Calgary and Minnesota of the National Lacrosse League. "Daddy" Cain has also taken the time to help with his daughter's school teams and supported Special Olympics as a trainer and coach.
Jim is truly deserving of his place in the Greater Victoria Sports Hall of Fame.