Migrating from Scotland the age of 15 in 1912, Christie was a dedicated footballer. He played with the Petersham Royals in the Metropolitan competition. He represented ‘British Isles’ against a team of Australians in a patriotic match in May 1915. At the age of 16 he was involved in football administration and helped establish the Metropolitan Junior League and became its secretary.
James Christie was killed near Pozieres in July 1916.