PRESTON College's Men's Football Team is celebrating after reaching the national stages of the prestigious English Schools' Football Association Cup.

The team has also been crowned North West British College Champions.

Now they hope their success will reach international levels as they head off to Phoenix in the USA next month to face opposition in the 22nd President's Day International Soccer Tournament.

A squad of 18 will make the trip, as well as twelve HND media students, who will record and relay information to the college via the internet and e-mail.

The team fly out to Phoenix on Monday February 19 and will stay with American families until the 24th. Then they will travel to San Diego for a sight-seeing tour. Even Fergie's Manchester United would be proud of the boys' record so far this season.

They have played 11 games, winning them all and scoring an impressive 49 goals. No other college in the area has such a record at this stage in the season.

Ten of the team's players represent the county's U19 side and, in a recent victory over Greater Manchester at the Preston Sports Arena, eight of the starting eleven were from Preston College.

Dave Spence, the Preston College Coach said: "This is the best side I have worked with. The team works hard and they are all talented and committed players.

"They are fortunate to have such excellent facilities in the College's Sports Centre and to play their home games at Preston's sports arena."

The team are hopeful that their excellent form will continue as they prepare for a trip to America next month.