English professional footballer and manager, sports pioneer. His team, Preston North End, became known as "The Invincibles" after they won the inaugural Football League competition in 1888–89, completing the season unbeaten in both the league and the FA Cup, so becoming the first team ever to achieve the "Double." He joined Preston Nelson sports club in 1867 at 17, later assuming chairmanship in his mid-twenties. Transitioning the club exclusively to football in 1880, he managed the team from 1881. To enhance team performance, he recruited Scottish players, providing them with jobs in the cotton mill he managed. His advocacy for professionalism led to its acceptance by the Football Association (FA), propelling Preston to prominence. Under his leadership, Preston North End secured the league and cup double, remaining unbeaten throughout the season. His football career ended in disgrace when he was found guilty of embezzlement in 1895, diverting funds from the mill to the football club. He served a three-year prison sentence and later moved to South Africa, where he pursued a successful career as a sports writer and rugby journalist until his death in 1911.
English professional footballer and manager, sports pioneer. His team, Preston North End, became known as "The Invincibles" after they won the inaugural Football League competition in 1888–89, completing the season unbeaten in both the league and the FA Cup, so becoming the first team ever to achieve the "Double." He joined Preston Nelson sports club in 1867 at 17, later assuming chairmanship in his mid-twenties. Transitioning the club exclusively to football in 1880, he managed the team from 1881. To enhance team performance, he recruited Scottish players, providing them with jobs in the cotton mill he managed. His advocacy for professionalism led to its acceptance by the Football Association (FA), propelling Preston to prominence. Under his leadership, Preston North End secured the league and cup double, remaining unbeaten throughout the season. His football career ended in disgrace when he was found guilty of embezzlement in 1895, diverting funds from the mill to the football club. He served a three-year prison sentence and later moved to South Africa, where he pursued a successful career as a sports writer and rugby journalist until his death in 1911.
Bio by: Turnpike
Gravesite Details
He is also commemorated on his family grave in the Preston Old Cemetery, see memorial 243408916.
Family Members
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