Saturday saw Dartford entertain Bowers & Pitsea at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. Callum Jones featured in our matchday programme that afternoon. For those who missed it, here is the full article:
SECTION ONE
Callum Jones was the sixth signing to be made by Ady Pennock in the summer, and the striker has certainly grabbed his opportunity with both hands… having made eight appearances in all competitions to date.
The 24-year-old has netted four times this season, two in the league and two in the FA Cup. Comfortable up top or on the flank, Callum’s daring runs have proved to be integral to the 2024-25 Dartford squad, as he terrorises defences. When he’s not in the position to score, the attacker also has an eye to provide the ammunition for his teammates instead.
And the player is in good spirits at the time of our discussion over WhatsApp… “I’m doing well thanks Chris. I’ve settled in well, and have enjoyed the first month of the season.”
He continues, “It’s been amazing so far. The welcome I’ve received from all the fans and everyone associated with the club has been amazing. I look forward to every Saturday now, and I can’t wait to play in front of them every weekend. I’m trying to score as many goals as I can!”
That’s certainly good to know! As everyone knows, goals were in rather short supply last term. But, with Callum averaging a goal every two games and fellow striker Eddie Dsane having scored three times since his late arrival, both men are on a trajectory to reach double figures this season. That’s something that was desperately needed, especially if Ady wants his outfit to return to the National League South anytime soon. So, why did Callum join the Darts?
“The manager was a big reason as to why I joined the club Chris. Ady showed trust in me and believed in my abilities, which made me feel wanted and excited for the opportunity.
“I’ve played against Dartford a number of times, and was always impressed by the facilities and the atmosphere that’s created by the fans. The pitch has always been in great condition also. My intention is to help get Dartford back into the National League South and playing at the highest level possible.”
Rewinding the clock a bit, I asked Callum where his football career began and if he was involved in a football academy…
“Yes, I started at Colchester United where I remained for ten years. I think it has benefited me tremendously, as it gave me the opportunity to play football as a job. I’m very fortunate to be able to do that. Being in an academy also helped me with my discipline towards my work, by being punctual and working as hard as I can. All of that was a result of being a part of an academy at a young age.”
After representing Colchester United at U18 and U21 levels, Callum’s journey then took him to part-time football where he played for Chelmsford City and Braintree Town, before his move to Kent. What does he do outside of the beautiful game?
“I work at a golf course as a Greenkeeper in Essex. My typical day could be cutting the greens in the morning and doing work on the bunkers in the afternoon. With this, I pay a lot of attention to the pitches that we play on at the weekends, so I can definitely appreciate a good pitch when I see one! Our pitch at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park is in great condition, and I can see the amount of work the grounds team have put in (and continue to do so)”.
So, how does Callum keep on top of his fitness, health, nutrition, and general wellbeing while balancing his work commitments?
“I’m lucky mate, as I start work at six in the morning every day and am home by four in the afternoon. So, I have plenty of time to get to training, as well as do the gym work that I do in the evenings. That helps me prepare throughout the week.”
He continues, “As I said, I’m up and outside early every day, which I think is good for me mentally. I use the gym a lot, which also helps me to prepare for each training session and game the best I can, as well as helping me perform to the best of my abilities.”
Despite the amount of work and time spent in the gym, Callum is happy at the moment, yet still has aspirations of returning to a professional level within the sport.
“Yes, I’d love to be a professional footballer again Chris. I never really had a go at it properly because the two years I did spend as a pro was limited due to injuries. So, I never reached the level that I wanted to get to. But, I’m still hopeful that I can get back into professional football in the future, if the opportunity presents itself.
“I’m definitely happy with where I am now though, and I’m enjoying playing for Dartford. I enjoy every moment that I have playing and I never take it for granted, especially after the injuries I’ve suffered when I was young. I wouldn’t change anything, as I believe that everything happens for a reason.”
Callum’s mindset is a joy to behold, as is his story. Despite suffering many setbacks, he’s used them to strengthen himself while remaining positive. And there’s still plenty of hope for the future, in which he hopes for success… both for himself and for the club…
“I intend to help get Dartford promoted back to the National League South Chris. That’s my immediate plan. For me personally, I hope to score as many goals as I can and play as many minutes as possible. I’m still only twenty-four, so I feel that I have a long career ahead of me to achieve as many targets as I possibly can.”
Nobody would begrudge Callum a move into the professional game if the opportunity presented itself. However, he’d also be welcome to remain a Dartford player for the rest of his playing career as well! And, with that being said, our conversation has reached its end. Does Callum have any words for the Dartford faithful?
“I do, yes… Thank you all for the welcome you’ve given me and the whole team since the first day of pre-season. Keep supporting us and, hopefully, we can achieve promotion and have a great season together! UP THE DARTS!”
SECTION TWO
Faith or Superstition?
Superstition. I always put my right boot on first!
Favourite Food?
Going to steak restaurant.
Favourite Drink?
A strawberry Daiquiri, especially on holiday!
TV Series or Film?
I like watching crime series and sporting documentaries.
Music or Podcast?
I would have to say podcast! I’ve been listening to Simon Jordan’s “Up Front” in the car and really enjoy that!
Sporting Hero?
Cristiano Ronaldo! I support Manchester United and grew up watching him when he was at the start of his career!
Non-Sporting Hero?
My Grandad Rob. He’s been to so many of my games and he makes me want to play football for him!
Do you follow any other sports besides football?
I like watching the golf and the big major competitions!
Biggest influence in the dressing room?
I would say Jacob (Marsden). He’s in charge of the fines and is always keeping us in line!
What football players, past or present, would make up your dream five-a-side team?
Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich)
Sergio Ramos (ex-Real Madrid)
Paul Scholes (ex-Manchester United)
Andres Iniesta (ex-Barcelona)
Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr)
By Chris Palmer