Posted: Feb 17, 2012
"We are really excited to announce another two signings of great quality to our program for next year," said Briggs. "Corey and Matt are both very hard working players who will excel on the pitch and in the classroom."
Ward prepped at North Lincolnshire College under head coach John Priestley. He was named the Player of the Season at under 16's and received his County Cap after playing 14 games.
Ward is the son of Peter Ward and Sue Ward.
"We have been keeping tabs on Wardy for a number of years, and have seen him develop into a solid right back under the guidance of John Priestly at North Lincolnshire College," added Briggs. "He comes with great recommendations from John who has also coached two previous Bellevue University standouts, Tom Dodds and Liam Brader. Matt will add a bit of extra strength and depth and quality to our back four."
Smith, who is the son of Shaun Smith, played at Ulverston Victoria High School under coach A. Pierce, earning Player of the Year honors and was also named team captain.
"Corey is a very technically gifted midfield player, who is really comfortable on the ball," said Briggs. "He doesn’t give it away cheaply and has that little extra bit of ability to get out of trouble. We were lucky to find out about Corey through Joe McLaughlin from Soccer Icon who has sent us some very good former players, Leon Kita and Ryan Cantello as well as current player Graeme Eaglesham."
The duo joins earlier signees Leigh Veidman (Liverpool, England/Texas at Brownsville/IWCC) , Jo Maxwell (Maybole, Scotland/Carrick Academy) and Charles Samushonga (Glasgow, Scotland/Pratt CC).
