Last weekend saw Dartford host Havant & Waterlooville at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. Tommy Block featured in our matchday programme that day. For those who missed that feature, here is the full article:
SECTION ONE
Having spent last season in the treatment room, Tommy Block’s journey with Dartford has been a slow burner. And, with a new campaign bringing fresh hope, the 23-year-old started the season in fine form, only for those niggling injuries to return and halt his progress after just seven appearances.
Despite the setback, Tommy is in good spirits at the time of our conversation… “I’m feeling very good thanks Chris. I’m hoping to up my training levels soon to see how my body responds to it, before returning to action soon… hopefully.”
Tommy isn’t one to sit still and, with football being his main priority in life, it must be difficult having to wait on the sidelines… “Yeah… but, I’ve actually taken over my Dad’s decorating business recently, so I’ve been able to focus on that.”
While the decorating business keeps his mind occupied at least, how does he keep himself in good health and physical shape (injury permitting)?
“Well, I’m a person who’s quite big on gym and fitness… probably a little too much to be honest! Hahaha! I keep fit by having a gym membership and attending 3-4 times a week. After my workout, I then finish in the sauna!”
It seems impossible that this defender is still only 23. Afterall, Dartford is the eleventh club he’s represented during his career. Hopefully, Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park will be a permanent home for him, but why did Tommy re-sign with the Darts?
“I’ve played against Dartford a few times Chris, even back in 2017 when I played for Bognor Regis.” – Ah… a 3-1 victory for the Darts, courtesy of goals from Alfie Pavey, Elliot Bradbrook, and Andy Pugh… I remember it well, as it was the day I fell in love with the club (Chris).
Tommy continues… “So, I knew about the club already, as well as what it represents. However, it was Dowse that got me here and having the opportunity to work with him and his staff again was too good to turn down. The squad is competitive and my goals are aligned with everyone else’s, to get promoted. I honestly believe that we’re more than capable of achieving that.”
That’s something that’s certainly still possible, despite the slow start to this campaign, as Dowse and his coaching staff continue to balance things whilst dealing with many unfortunate injuries within the squad. With that being said, does Tommy have anything to say to the Dartford fans?
“Yeah, of course I do Chris! I’d like to say thanks for all your support so far this season, home and away. Let’s keep going, keep backing us, and let’s move up the table. Up The Darts!”
SECTION TWO
Faith or Superstition?
I’m very superstitious. I make sure to eat at exactly 12pm on game day, or 4:45pm on Tuesdays. I always put my left shin pad on first, I tie my left boot first, and I always touch my shin pads before the ref blows his whistle.
Best Memory?
Signing my first professional contract at Hibernian, and being in the squad against Rangers.
Biggest Influence In Your Career?
My dad by a million miles. He’s the person I turn to when I need advice and he’s always there watching me, no matter what level I’ll be playing at.
Best Goal Scored?
I don’t think there’s many to choose from to be honest… HaHaHaHa! I’ve scored a few important penalties, so probably one of them.
Most Under-Rated Player You’ve Played With?
Jake Gray (at Hampton & Richmond). He’s the best technical player I’ve played with, and he’s an absolute machine. I think he is overlooked massively.
Most Under-Rated Player You’ve Played Against?
Harvey Bradbury when he was at Oxford because, he is part of the car school and he’s upset that I’m about to mention Roons (see below)!
Biggest Influence In The Dressing Room?
Charlie Sheringham. When he has something to say, he has the whole changing room listening. Or Roons (Paul Rooney) because, he’s captain of the car school! (Car school is where Tommy, Harvey and Paul share a car to training, as they all live on the same route to Princes Park.)
If you were to be involved with a five-a-side tournament, and had to select the best players you have played against, which five players would you choose?
Adam Bogdan (unattached), Reece James (Chelsea), Karamoke Dembele (Blackpool), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Tammy Abraham (AS Roma).
By Chris Palmer
