REG FREEMAN

By Paul Holland
October 25 2002

REG FREEMAN (1952-55)

Reg Freeman had been a stylish fill-back before becoming a manager with rotherham United. They were promoted to the Second Division for the first time in their history in 1951 and it was something of a suprise when Freeman moved to Bramall lane in August 1952 after more than twenty years at Millmoor.

Freeman was an instant success at the Lane, United winning the Second Division championship at the end of his first season in charge. The illness of Len Browning was a severe blow when Unitedreturned to the First Division, but relegation was averted and Freeman gradually introduced new young players into the team.

The death of the Manager in August 1955 was a tragedy for the club. Football had lost an astute manager but also 'one off nature's gentleman'. Freeman worked closely and quietly with his players, always avaible with advice and encouragement and the number of young players that blossomed under his guidance is tribute enough to his warmth and decency.

Summery of this managers League Record...

Played Won Drawn Lost For Against
126----53--28----45---236-231