James de Dassel’s premiership jersey stolen in holiday burglary

A cherished member of the Top End rugby community who had his most beloved possession stolen as his business was burgled, is desperate for its return.

James de Dassel (front row, second from right) had his premiership winning framed jersey stolen. Picture: South Darwin Rugby Union Club Facebook.

James (Jimmy) de Dassel’s most prized possession was stolen during the holidays as he and his family watched on 3785.4 km away.

The former president of Northern Territory Rugby Union club South Darwin Rabbitohs, senior coach and player had his framed 2015 premiership winning reserve-grade jersey nicked right before Christmas.

Incredibly, de Dassel’s business ‘JJs Car Hire’ in Parap, was relatively unscathed, with the offenders only stealing his beloved jersey and a framed photo.

James de Dassel's premiership winning jersey (in the background) was stolen just before Christmas. Picture: Supplied.

“My yard was broken into just before Christmas,” he said.

“Very little was stolen as I don’t keep valuables or cash on the premises.

“They broke the lock on the door to the office and took the framed jersey and another framed photo.

“All cars are locked and keys are kept off site.”

Still operating the shop despite now living in NSW, de Dassel said he didn’t bother reporting the break-in to the police due to the ‘minimal’ damage that was done.

James de Dassel (middle). Picture: Facebook.

De Dassel did however share his story on Facebook, which his former club shared, eliciting a flood of comments and more than 45 shares from the rugby community who hold de Dassel in great stead.

“I played for the South Darwin Rabbits from 2009 to 2019 and was club president from 2014-2019,” de Dassel said.

“The club had it (the jersey) framed and presented it to me at the end of the 2015 season.

“I’m a life member, I continue to sponsor the club and help out whenever I can.

“I was reluctant to do a social media post but my brother said it might just do the trick.”

Still clinging onto hope that justice will prevail, de Dassel explained the jersey meant more to him than any other he’d ever worn.

“Premierships are few and far between and I loved winning this grand final with this special group of great mates,” he said.

“I really hope the jersey is found.

“It holds no value to anyone but myself.

“The manufacturer (Tsunami) in Hong Kong saw my post and has offered to make a replica, but I’d really love the original back.”