Dartford took on Lewes last month. Chris Palmer spoke to Sam Odaudu, who featured in the matchday programme for that fixture. For those who missed it, here is the article:
This is Sam Odaudu’s fourth full season as a Dartford player. Since making his debut in his solitary appearance in the 2021-22 campaign, Sam has gone on to make 132 appearances (in all competitions) across the last four seasons.
Of those appearances, 124 have seen him named in the starting eleven, and he’s also chipped in by scoring on seven occasions. And despite suffering with a few injuries, he has made 26 appearances (24 starts) so far this season, and has scored once.
Sam’s progress has seen him make the left-back position his own. And, with the position being his favourite, he is happy to play wherever he’s needed in order to help the team succeed.
Why did the popular defender re-sign for the Darts?
“I’ve been here for a while now, and I’ve looked for reasons to keep re-signing and keep motivated to carry on going year after year. After the way last season ended, it was only right to give it another go this year, and I’m appreciative to the manager and club for the help they’ve given me, which makes it easy for me to keep showing up for them.”
It has been widely documented that the aim of this season was to get promoted back into the National League South and, despite recent results of those clubs around Dartford in the table, promotion via the playoffs is still possible.
And Sam is wise to the situation…
“The main aim has always been to get promotion of course. We’ve got a very good chance still. We’ve had a very disrupted season as a squad but, hopefully, we can show how good we are throughout the remaining fixtures.
“For me personally, I just want to be available as much as possible for the team and my teammates, like last season.”
What about the future? What does Sam hope to achieve?
“The aim is to always play as high as possible, and do this full-time. I’m grateful to be playing football as a career anyway, so the goal is to see how far we can go and have fun whilst doing so.”
Sam’s qualities on the pitch have been in evidence for some time now, as he has made the number three shirt his own. But what does he believe he brings to the squad?
“My biggest contribution I’d say is, that I’m versatile and solid defensively, and can also contribute going forward.”
He continues, “I’d also say that my mindset is the main thing that sets me apart from others. It’s taken a while to get my mindset to where it is now, and how I go into games. With the help of teammates, managers, and family past and present, I’m able to get that little bit extra out of myself and push myself in any circumstance.
“However, I consider recent injuries to be a weakness of late. I was good with my availability last season, playing almost every game but, the beginning of this season I was unfortunate. Hopefully, we’re past that now that I’m back fit.”
Would he consider injuries to be a challenge?
“Sometimes yes. The biggest challenge that I really face is balancing life in and outside of football, especially when we’re playing part-time. Finding the right balance can be hard sometimes but, as long as the priorities are balanced, then you’ll find yourself in a good spot.”
It’s easy to forget that Sam is still only in his early twenties, such has been his progress in a Dartford shirt. Has he learnt anything valuable from the sport?
“The most important thing I’ve learnt in playing football is, to always be willing to learn. I’ve played under a couple of managers here, and one of the reasons why I’ve lasted is because I’m willing to listen, learn, and adapt.
“I just love playing football because of the people I meet and the people I do it for. I’ve met some top people in my years here, and just through football, which I’m grateful for and owe a lot to.”
With Sam mentioning earlier the fact that he’s a part-time footballer, how does he keep himself match-fit?
“I get to the gym on my off days after work. The physios know that I’m always complaining about my back, so I’m in the gym often trying to get stronger in order to get through the season. I try to make sure that I’ve got the energy to give my all and to be honest. That’s where eating habits come in, and having the right amount of sleep. As long as I’m consistent in that, then everything falls into place.
“As for matchdays, I keep things simple. I eat the same thing all the time and drink between 2-3 litres of fluids before going out for the warm-up. Then, as long as I pray, I’m good to go.”
How does he remain motivation throughout the long football seasons?
“It’s just about taking it game by game. That’s the only way I can get through it and, before you know it, you’re at the end of the season and into the time where all the chips fall. Most of all though, I’m just grateful to be here honestly. I love the boys and the supporters are always good to me, so I’ve got no choice but to show up for everyone.
“I try to live by the best advice I once received, which was to just keep going no matter the circumstances.”
Sam is a great example to others on what it means to remain loyal and devoted to the club, its supporters, staff, coaches, manager, and his teammates. Yet, nobody would begrudge him finding success at the highest possible level.
With a calm and wise head upon his shoulders, he’s an example to others regardless of their age. And, having said that, does Sam have any advice for the younger generation?
“The best advice I can give to someone is, to enjoy what you’re doing and always smile. Keep going and, if you can, find consistency in the hunger you have to play at a good level and higher. Then, you’ll outlast a lot of people.”
SECTION TWO
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
No superstitions. More just making sure I’ve eaten, I’m hydrated, I’ve stretched, and I’ve prayed.
Favourite footballer?
Currently, my favourite player is Jurrien Timber.
Favourite football team?
I’m an Arsenal supporter… haha!
Favourite football moment?
Scoring the last kick of the game to equalise in the playoff Semi-Final last year to take it to extra time.
Biggest role model?
My Mum.
Team to watch out for in the league this season?
Would only be right to say Dartford.
Who are your biggest supporters?
My family and friends.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I’m a big fan of the NFL and I like to listen to classical music.
What sport would you do if you didn’t play football?
NFL.
Who will win the Premier League this season?
ARSENAL!!!
By Chris Palmer