Recognized for his goal-scoring ability and commitment, Dougie Freedman established an impactful career as a professional footballer from 1992 to 2010. During his debut season with Barnet (1994-1995), he scored 24 goals, earning him the club’s Player of the Year award and a place in the Football League Third Division PFA Team of the Year. His success led to his first move to Crystal Palace (1995-1997), where he contributed to the club’s promotion to the Premier League in 1997. In a second significant spell at Crystal Palace (2000-2008), Freedman scored a vital goal to save the team from relegation in 2001, a performance that led to him being named Crystal Palace Player of the Year (2001–02) and selected for the Football League First Division PFA Team of the Year (2001–02).

Beyond his primary role, he will also take on a comprehensive multi-sports oversight responsibility, demonstrating his versatile leadership and strategic capabilities across a broader sporting landscape.