IT has been a summer of change at Preston Hockey Club with Colin Sinclair stepping down as coach after two seasons with Nick Smith taking the reins as manager.

Luke Watson will continue his dual role of first team captain and coach. The management team have put the emphasis on preparation, discipline and attitude.

The club also recruited a personal fitness specialist who oversaw pre-season training which involved high-intensity running, sprints and circuit training to whip the squad into excellent physical condition.

Preston have also been busy in the transfer market. Leaving the club are Ian Brown and Phil Bowman who is seeking star status at neighbouring Southport.

But for the first time, the club has recruited from overseas bringing in Australian forwards Shaun Smyth and Wade Blanchfield.

Also new is Paul Waring from Blackpool and there is the welcome return to fitness of Richard Sullivan as well the annual intake from the university to integrate.

The South African, Etienne Vann, returns from armed service in Iraq in November.

PRESTON concluded their pre-season work with a convincing and 4-1 victory over Premier Division outfit Southport. Shaun Smyth scored two goals while the best debutant on show was Don Cock recently recruited from Formby. Handed the central midfield berth, Cock delivered a playmaker's masterclass and embellished his performance with two superb goals .

Adam Wilson and Richard Sullivan are to return to the squad for Saturday's league opener against Chester.