Dartford took on Brentwood Town at the end of January. Chris Palmer spoke to Denzelle Olopade, who featured in the matchday programme for that fixture. For those who missed it, here is the article:
This is Denzelle Olopade’s second campaign at Princes Park, and the midfielder has become one of the most important members of Ady Pennock’s Dartford squad.
To date he has made 73 appearances for the club, of which 69 have been in the starting eleven. Denzelle has also contributed with eleven goals during his time here, three of which have come in his 25 appearances so far this season.
His first ever goal for Dartford came on his debut on the opening weekend of last season, which saw him score a low long-range drive at Cray Valley PM. His last goal to date arrived last weekend, where he let fly with a 35-yard drive at Burgess Hill Town. Unfortunately, his special goal wasn’t enough as the Darts fell to a narrow defeat in West Sussex.
Such extravagant goals are a part of Denzelle’s armour, as are his work-rate and tackling ability in the middle of the park. He remains grounded and admits to feeling truly blessed to remain here at Dartford, as he continues to make a name for himself.
“I re-signed for Dartford because, I want to establish my name at a good club.”
What does he hope to achieve here at the club?
“We failed at promotion last year, so I wanted to go for it again this season. I believe that we have got a very good squad and, when everyone’s on it, I think we’re unplayable.”
Aside from promotion back into the National League South with Dartford, what are Denzelle’s goals for his playing career?
“I want to get back into full-time football. Dropping down into the Non-League game was probably the biggest challenge I’ve ever faced. Having to come away from full-time football was difficult. But I’m enjoying my time here and want to do everything I can to help get this club back to where it belongs.”
The current incarnation of the squad includes a bright and talented group of players with various levels of abilities. What does Denzelle bring to the team?
“I’m a box-to-box midfielder with a bit of everything in terms of footballing ability. I’m an engine. I can cover distances that others can’t at times, and I possess the ability to drive forward and dominate second balls. However, I do have a tendency to sometimes think that I’m always right!”
That last statement can be true of many of us in some ways. However, we’re never too old to learn. Has playing football taught Denzelle anything valuable?
“I’ve learnt that everyone has a different opinion of you. It’s nothing personal, just the way it is. I just love playing football because, it takes my mind off of the other challenges that life brings.”
One of those challenges for footballers at this level is the fact that they’re part-time and have to work outside of the game. This is also true for Denzelle…
“It’s very hard to give everything to football and provide for yourself and your family. But, when motivation gets hard, I just keep on praying!”
In order to keep himself as fit as possible, Denzelle trains every other day of the week on top of the sessions he does with his teammates. And on matchdays, he has a specific routine…
“I have pancakes and blueberries for breakfast and always pray before kick-off.”
It certainly seems that he has everything under control during the busy seasons. And with his competitiveness and eye for goal on the pitch, Denzelle is a highly influential player for Dartford. As he continues to grow in experience both off and on the field, does he have any advice for the younger generation?
“Just keep working hard. The results will reflect the work you put in.”
SECTION TWO
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
N/A
Favourite footballer?
Paul Pogba.
Favourite football team?
Arsenal.
Favourite football moment?
Play-off semi-final vs Cray Valley.
Biggest role model?
My Mum.
Team to watch out for in the league this season?
Folkestone.
Who are your biggest supporters?
Probably me. That’s how it has to be sometimes.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I like jazz music.
What sport would you do if you didn’t play football?
Table Tennis.
Who will win the Premier League this season?
Arsenal.
By Chris Palmer