Bermuda Hogges' technical director Derek Broadley has been praised for his contribution in helping transform Reading United into a PDL powerhouse.

Ex-Crystal Palace academy director, Broadley, joined United (formerly Reading Rage) in 2004 and is largely credited for setting up their current player development model.

United's head coach, Brendan Burke, described Broadley's appointment as one of the best ever made by former United General Manager, Jerry Wojton, who died after suffering a brain aneurysm last month.

"Bringing in Derek was one of the best decisions Jerry ever made for the club," said Burke, whose team picked up a draw and a win from their double-header with Bermuda Hogges recently. "Derek brought in our current development model. He's still one of the people I consider a role model of mine in soccer. Before Jerry brought in Derek, there was a four-year period of constant change in management."

In three seasons with the Pennsylvania-based outfit, Broadley built a solid foundation before accepting a position with the Bermuda Football Association (BFA).

Upon Broadley's departure, Burke was named head coach of the franchise in 2008 when he guided them to play-offs for the first time since the 2001.

Last season they reached the 40-point plateau for the fourth time in club's history. It was also the first time Reading accomplished that feat since the 2000 season.

"Towards the end of Derek's tenure, Jerry moved into more of an advisory role after adding Art Auchenbach and Troy Snyder to the organisation," Burke told the United Soccer Leagues (USL) website. "Even though he was not directly involved with the team at the time, he was still very supportive. He got out to a lot of matches whenever he could. He was always a very pleasant man. He taught me not to push people's buttons too much. If he hadn't held this organisation together through those rough times we wouldn't be enjoying the success we are having today."

Today, Hogges take on Ironbound Express from New Jersey in their first away match of the season. Coach Scott Morton admitted the three-game trip would be a tough test for his team which has taken four points from four home matches.

"We've learned so much about ourselves during the first four league games of the year," said the former Dandy Town boss.

"As long as we remain focused, committed and work as a unit, the results will show. This will be another test for our squad but the coaching staff and I have all the faith and wisdom, this squad will deliver."

Hogges' upcoming away schedule (all times Bermuda) – Today: v Ironbound Express, 9 p.m.; Saturday: v New Jersey Rangers, 5 p.m.;Tuesday: v Central New Jersey Spartans.