Dartford took on Aveley recently. Chris Palmer spoke to Jeremiah Pinder, who featured in the matchday programme for that fixture. For those who missed it, here is the article:
Jeremiah Pinder has been a member of Ady Pennock’s squad since being promoted from the Dartford Academy at the beginning of last season.
Having initially made two appearances during the 2023-24 season, the young midfielder has gone on to make 73 appearances (42 starts) for the Darts and has scored four goals in total at the time of writing.
This season Jeremiah has made 27 appearances so far, of which eighteen have been in the starting eleven. He has scored just the solitary goal to date, which came in the 4-1 win over Carshalton Athletic back in August.
He clearly loves it here at Princes Park and believes that the club will be successful…
“I’ve been a part of the First Team for two years now, and after being so close to promotion last year, I wanted to remain and go again this term. Promotion is definitely a goal that me and all the boys share, and I think we’ve got every chance of achieving it this year.”
Jeremiah’s favourite position to play is in the centre of the Dartford midfield and, of course, he has aspirations of playing at the highest level possible. Yet, his main objective is to enjoy his football…
“Yeah, I enjoy it because for ninety minutes, everything else stops. Anything else that you’ve got going on in life doesn’t matter during those ninety minutes. However, setbacks such as injuries can have a negative effect sometimes, as can not playing as much as I would like.”
That last part he mentioned is a testament to the competitiveness of the midfield unit that Ady Pennock has built. Yet despite not playing as often as he’d like, Jeremiah remains fully committed and motivated to contribute towards Dartford’s cause.
“I think that when you want to win, it’s relatively easy to stay motivated.”
Having mentioned the competition for places, what does Jeremiah believe that he brings to the squad?
“My work-rate off the ball and my composure on it. I work hard and I believe that discipline is important… you have to show up all the time in order to get better.”
Does he do anything to help with improving his fitness and game?
“I always try to get eight-nine hours’ sleep. That’s my main priority leading up to a game. I do a couple of additional sessions in the gym during the week, which help me to try to stay fit and sharp too. I’m still only part-time, so I’m able to put as much time into my football as possible.”
Is there any advice he’s received that he tries to live by?
“Yes, never get too high or too low.”
That’s good advice and something that many of the players in the Dartford squad try to follow. Afterall, football is a funny old game. It never sits still, and highs and lows are a big part of the beautiful game.
Does Jeremiah have any advice for those looking to follow in his footsteps?
“Be patient and, when you get your chance, make sure that you’re ready.”
Once again, this young footballer offers advice that shows his maturity and wisdom. As he continues to progress with the Darts, hopefully more starting appearances and goals will come as the business end of the season is approaching fast.
SECTION TWO
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
No superstitions.
Favourite footballer?
Yaya Toure.
Favourite football team?
Arsenal.
Favourite football moment?
Probably making my debut for Dartford.
Biggest role model?
My parents.
Team to watch out for in the league this season?
Dartford.
Who are your biggest supporters?
My family.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I almost stopped playing football to play basketball.
What sport would you do if you didn’t play football?
Basketball.
Who will win the Premier League this season?
Arsenal.
By Chris Palmer