Dartford took on Chatham Town on Bank Holiday Monday. Chris Palmer spoke to Elsa Ejupi, who featured in the matchday programme for that fixture. For those who missed it, here is the article:
Elsa Ejupi arrived at Princes Park, having signed from the Millwall Lionesses earlier in the year. And the left-winger has settled into the Dartford FC Women’s side nicely, having made eight appearances (four starts) so far.
With Connor Dymond and Martin McCarthy’s outfit currently sitting in third place of the London & South-East Regional Women’s Football League table following their recent 2-2 draw at league leaders Brentford, Elsa is looking forward to the challenge that is the remainder of the campaign. Afterall, the Darts Destroyers have four games in hand over Brentford, but are two points behind Saltdean with equal fixtures played.
“Since doing a training session with the girls freshly into the new year, I believed the club would be a good place to grow, learn, and take my game to the next level. The girls are great players and were all so welcoming, and the coaches are amazing too.”
She continues, “I think this team will go far, and we will show how much we want it week in, week out. I want to be brave and trust myself, become more comfortable with the uncomfortable and, of course, win the league!”
With the left wing being her more favoured playing position, what does Elsa believe she brings to an already talented group of players?
“I bring pace and strength on the pitch, and I like to be versatile with ways in which I can move and create on the pitch. I learn fast and stay disciplined. Speed and technical ability are my strengths. However, using my weaker foot is a weakness which I’m working on, and I want to be consistent in all my games. I just love the competitiveness, it’s why I love football.”
Like many of her peers, Elsa has suffered her fair share of challenges, one of which occurred just three years ago…
“I had a bad injury in 2023 whilst playing college football, which was a challenging setback. It tested me both physically and mentally, but going through rehab helped me to develop resilience, discipline, and a stronger mindset. I was once told to never give up, and I’ll continue to keep aiming high and see how far I can push myself.”
What about motivation? Is that ever a problem?
“I stay motivated by setting small, realistic goals throughout the season, which helps me keep improving while avoiding burnout. I run with a running group on Tuesdays, and also do my own gym work when I can in order to keep on top of my fitness.”
Like her teammates, Elsa is also aware of the additional challenge of having to balance her working and private life alongside the beautiful game. Yet, she’s on top of that balancing act as well…
“Time management is definitely a challenge. I try to find a structure that works, so that I’m able to fit my gym work with my runs around my week, with enough time to recover too.”
She continues, “On matchdays, I watch over my goals and highlights to visualise what I can do. I also make sure to carb load and eat foods that will give me energy for the game. The key for me is to enjoy football and focus on what you can control, not on what you can’t.”
It certainly appears that Elsa has everything covered to help her achieve her goals. Does she have any advice for the younger generation?
“Trust yourself, play your game, and always push yourself that extra10%. That makes the biggest difference.”
That’s wise advice from a player who continues to grow in confidence and ability. Let’s hope that she does succeed in her playing career, and that that success is with the Dartford FC Women’s team.
SECTION TWO
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
Watching over my highlights.
Favourite footballer?
Cristiano Ronaldo.
Favourite football team?
Manchester United.
Favourite football moment?
Winning the league with my previous club last season.
Biggest role model?
My sister.
Team to watch out for in the league this season?
DARTFORD! (Us)
Who are your biggest supporters?
My sister and the fans, who come and support us week in week out!
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I’m from a Kosovan background and made my debut for them in 2022.
What sport would you do if you didn’t play football?
I think either track 100m or gymnastics.
Who will win the WSL this season?
I would want Manchester United to win.
By Chris Palmer