Ex-PNE star helps kids start to shine

Matt Hill and PNE winger Chris Humphrey (right) who was visiting the Pro 4 academy in Preston

A Preston-based football academy has been a big success in its first 18 months.

Former PNE left-back Matt Hill set up 4 Pro in 2014, the academy providing coaching and sports science support to youngsters not attached to professional clubs.

They train weekly at Corpus Christi RC School in Fulwood and play regular games against football club’s academy and development centre teams.

A number of the players have gone on to sign for clubs or have had trials.

Hill, who currently plays for Tranmere, told the Evening Post: “We have got more than 100 lads who train with us.

“We coach them to a high standard and regularly play matches against sides from PNE, Bolton, Blackpool and Accrington .

“That gives them a good understanding of the level they need to reach if they are to get taken on by an academy.

“We don’t guarantee to turn them into professional footballers but we will make them better players.