HOCKEY player Joseph Prestidge, from Wisbech, is enjoying life as a player-coach in Lyon, France. Click here to see the video he sent to the French club, showcasing his skills.

A HOCKEY player from Wisbech is enjoying life as a player-coach in Lyon, France.

Joseph Prestidge, 25, who has played for Wisbech Town, is playing in the French national first division, one level below the top level of hockey in France.

He is the head coach of Lyon Omnisport Union Hockey Club and he runs the club's youth academy.

The club pays for Prestidge's living accommodation plus a wage and he teaches English at a primary school.

Prestidge said: "I enjoy living in France and love speaking French, the food is great and the club takes good care of me.

"Though in the politest possible way, the French people take some getting used to! I don't think I'll live here forever. I miss the English humour."

Prestidge's team includes a Polish under-21 international, an Egyptian international and three players who have represented France.

Prestidge was selected after contacting the club and sending his hockey CV.

He sent over video footage, showcasing some of his hockey skills and then went out to Lyon and successfully came through some trials.

Prestidge said: "Currently we sit sixth in the league. The club's priority is just to stay up, as it is their first season in the national league.

"The season is going quite well. Personally, I have scored four goals and am enjoying every minute of it.

"Coaching and playing hockey abroad is a long-term ambition for me.

"I have plans to play in Melbourne, Australia for MCC Hockey Club, in March 2011, but my real dream is to coach college field hockey in the States.

"I coach in America for three months each year but want to live there permanently."

Joseph is part of a well-known Wisbech sporting family.

One brother, Solomon, has played for Wisbech Rugby Club, Hockey Club and Cricket Club.

Another brother, Casper, is a triathlon and marathon runner and Orlando plays for Wisbech Hockey Club and Leverington Cricket Club.