Fred Payne

Recruited from Ardmona in the Goulburn Valley, Fred Payne was a versatile follower and forward who battled to cement a permanent spot in Essendon’s star-studded lineup during the height of the John Coleman era. Although he enjoyed a remarkable start to his career by winning his first 14 matches, the strength of the list forced him to the periphery during the 1949 and 1950 premiership campaigns. Payne is best remembered for his pivotal role in the selection drama of the 1951 Grand Final; initially named as the twentieth man, he was elevated to the starting side to replace an injured teammate, a move that famously allowed coach Dick Reynolds to come out of retirement and take the vacant spot on the bench. A courageous utility who was voted the club's Best Utility Player that season, he eventually departed for Hawthorn in 1954 but was unable to break into their senior side, finishing his career in country football with Kyneton and Shepparton.