Fred Nelson


Fred Nelson was an Australian professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1950s and 1960s. He played for South Sydney and Manly-Warringah in the NSWRL competition.

Early life

Nelson was born in Mascot, Sydney and played his junior rugby league with Mascot before signing with South Sydney in 1954. Nelson won the Presidents Cup premiership with Souths that same year.

Playing career

Nelson made his first grade debut for Souths in 1956. Nelson's time at South Sydney was at a difficult period in the club's history. After winning 5 premierships throughout the decade, Souths went through a period of finishing near the bottom of the table after most of their star players such as Clive Churchill had retired and moved on. In total, Nelson played over 100 games for the club including reserve grade and third grade. While playing for South Sydney, Nelson represented New South Wales making one appearance. In 1962, Nelson joined Manly-Warringah playing one season for the club before retiring.

Coaching career

In 1967, Nelson coached the Arncliffe Scots who played in the local St George competition. Nelson then went on to coach the South Sydney reserve grade side and won a premiership with them in 1968.