Last weekend saw Dartford take on Folkestone Invicta at Princes Park. Chris Palmer spoke to Olly Box, who featured in the matchday programme for that fixture. For those who missed it, here is the article:
Olly Box needs no introduction to the Dartford faithful, for the talented youngster has firmly established his place in the squad.
Having made a handful of appearances off the bench during the 2022-23 (two appearances) and 2023-24, he literally burst out of the blocks away at Dover Athletic in February 2024, where he scored his first ever goal to set the Darts on the way to a 2-1 victory.
Since that afternoon, Olly has been a vital member of Ady Pennock’s side. To date, he has gone on to make a total of 88 appearances (69 starts), and has scored 32 goals.
With his speed, flair, and eye for goal, Olly continues to excite Dartford supporters every time he receives the ball. And the winger/forward is enjoying his football at the moment. Aside from the obvious, what does he believe he brings to the team?
“I would say my enthusiasm. I love what I do and I really enjoy being with the group of players that we have here. My biggest attribute is my finishing. I think that, if I get into a position where I can score, I’m really dangerous. I’d also say that my dribbling and one-on-one situations are strong, however, I’d like to improve on certain defensive areas of my game.”
He continues, “But, as long as I’m playing, I really don’t mind where I’m playing. I’m really enjoying my role within the team as a left winger. Ultimately, I enjoy playing football because, I love watching my family get together and support me.”
With rumours regarding his future flying around the club like an irritating wasp, Olly remains loyal to the club that launched his career. And he’s determined to help the team succeed…
“Obviously, after losing in the playoffs last year, I feel that I owe something to the club. I really want to do one better this season and, hopefully, we can get the club back to where it belongs.
“We have a very strong group this year, and we’re all growing game by game.”
Is it bringing success to Dartford that motivates him?
“Self-motivation is key in football. If you’re winning games, it’s very easy to stay motivated. But, I’m always buzzing to play football. Since I was a kid, I’ve always wanted football to be my job, so that’s still the aim, it continues to motivate me.”
Does he have any other goals?
“As a forward, you always have your personal goals of getting as many contributions as possible but, I also want to play as many minutes as I possibly can. I want to keep gaining experience in men’s football.
“I’ve learnt to enjoy my football because, it can be taken away from you with the blink of an eye.”
Olly is referring to injuries with that last comment. No matter how much we love the beautiful game, it can be a cruel sport sometimes…
“Yes, the biggest challenge we face is probably injuries. Touch-wood I haven’t suffered any serious ones as of yet, but I do feel that it can take you into a very bad place mentally.”
Another challenge faced by footballers at this level is working outside of the game. How does Olly cope with working, trying to keep himself fit, and playing on Saturdays?
“I’m extremely lucky in that my work outside of football works around my availability. So it makes it easy to juggle things around. I’m able to get to the gym occasionally during the week, and my routine on matchdays is fairly simple… I’ll have an omelette, a cuppa, and a litre of water. That’s it.”
Has he ever received any advice that he tries to live by?
“The best advice I’ve ever received in football is simple… you don’t have to take the leather off the ball to score.”
And does he have any advice for those wanting to follow in his footsteps?
“The minimum you have to do, is work hard. Everyone will notice that first.”
That’s sound advice from one of our brightest talents to come out of the excellent Dartford Academy. For Olly is living proof that hard work pays off, as he continues to light up the Princes Park pitch.
SECTION TWO
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
Right foot onto the pitch first has always been a superstition of mine.
Favourite footballer?
Eden Hazard.
Favourite football team?
Chelsea.
Favourite football moment?
I would have to say making my NLS debut with Dartford. All the work I put into the Academy I felt was finally paying off.
Biggest role model?
The old man.
Team to watch out for in the league this season?
Dartford.
Who are your biggest supporters?
My family and friends. I’ve always got a lot of them watching me and it’s lovely to see them enjoying it.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I’m bilingual.
What sport would you do if you didn’t play football?
Tennis.
Who will win the Premier League this season?
Chelsea.
By Chris Palmer