A YOUNGSTER from Avenham could be the future Sven Goran Eriksson as school children from the area are taking part in a junior sports leader awards project.

Pupils at Christ the King RC high school, Lawrence Avenue, are using sport to learn about the importance of organisation and communication skills.

Stacey Iddon, active schools development officer for the area said: "The award aims to encourage children to get into coaching or get involved in organising community sports. Pupils are encouraged to plan their own sports lessons to help them develop leadership skills."

The project is being run by the Spotlight on Sport and Health group which is also setting up after-school sports teams and inter-school tournaments. Coaching is being given in sports such as cricket, basketball, gymnastics and football.

Iain Mackie, a coach on the scheme said: "We've had a very positive response from children and staff. It gives teachers a chance to take a break and we can bring in something a bit different to the curriculum.

St Stephen's primary school, South Meadow Lane, now has a netball club up and running on Wednesdays and Frenchwood primary, is to follow their lead. The teams then enter a tournament for schools throughout Preston in March.