Lincoln-born Fred Emery joined Rovers as a 24-year-old after spells with his hometown club and Bradford City. From 1925 onwards he established himself as a key member of the Rovers team, then operating in Division Three (North). In 1932 manager David Menzies appointed Fred, by then the most experienced player in the squad to be club captain. It proved to be the start of a successful partnership between manager and skipper. Fred was an ever-present in 1933-34 as Rovers finished fifth in Division Three (North). A year later, Fred led Rovers to their first Divisional Title in their Football League history as they won the Northern Section Championship.
Fred remained an important member of the team for the following season, as Rovers consolidated their position in Division Two. In February 1936, after Menzies accepted an offer to become Hull City manager, Fred took over as player-manager before hanging up his boots at the end of the season. He remained Rovers manager until July 1940 and subsequently managed Bradford Park Avenue and Carlisle United until his early death in 1959.
Fred’s long career and few absences from first-team duty meant he set the club record for Football League appearances- 417- which he held until overtaken by James Coppinger during the 2015-16 season. Despite playing most of his career in defence, he contributed a healthy 30 League goals, many from the penalty spot. His long service and achievements as a player and later manager make him a worthy addition to the Hall of Fame.
Rovers Debut: 6th December 1924, Division Three (North) vs. Hartlepool United (home) Won 1-0.
Final game: 25th April 1936, Division Two vs Tottenham Hotspur (away). Lost 1-3.
Rovers Career: Football League: 417 appearances, 30 goals. All senior games: 438 appearances, 31 goals.
Honours with Rovers: Division Three (North) Champions 1934-35.