Preece, one of St Sidwell’s earliest players, appeared during the 1901/02 season several years before the club became Exeter City in 1904. 

In 1901 he joined the new St Sidwell’s United club that had been formed largely by a group of 16- and 17-year olds who had attended St Sidwell’s school and lived close to the current St James’ Park.

He is first recorded as playing in the friendly against Torquay United Reserves on 23 November 1901 although, with records not being complete for that season, he may have played before then. He also played in the following week’s league game against St John’s Athletic on 30 November 1901 although, after an apparent run of games during the middle of 1901/02, there is no further mention of him beyond that season.