Saturday saw Dartford host Canvey Island at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. New Dartford FC Women Captain, Chana Hinds, featured in our matchday programme that afternoon. For those who missed it, here is the full article:
SECTION ONE
Chana Hinds signed for Dartford FC Women back in August 2023, having spent three seasons with Dulwich Hamlet. And the defender became an integral part of Connor Dymond and Martin McCarthy’s side last season, with her managers voting her as the Manager’s Player of The Year!
The timing of our conversation sees Chana in a good mood, albeit, a little surprised by the award…
“I’m good thank you Chris. To be honest, I was really surprised at being given the award because, we all worked so hard last season. However, to be chosen as Managers’ Player of The Year was a real honour.”
Her award is a testament to the hard work put in by Chana and her teammates, but particularly to the defensive unit built by Connor, Martin, and the coaching staff. Last season’s statistics make for incredible reading.
In 22 league games, Dartford FC Women lost on just three occasions. The defence conceded just 28 goals, while the attack was prolific, netting 67 times. The ladies won a whopping 18 games, but what’s more impressive was their 100% record at home… That’s eleven straight wins, scoring 33 goals and conceding just 10… an average of less than a goal a game conceded! It’s no wonder that the defence was applauded as much as the attack and a testament to Chana’s award.
However, despite the impressive record, the Darts fell short of winning the London & South-East Regional Women’s Football League by just three points. Ironically, missing out to Chana’s former club Dulwich Hamlet. But, she’s here for another campaign and another crack at success…
“We want to win the league this season. I can’t think of a better group of people to do that with, so remaining was a no-brainer. It’s amazing to be a part of this team. The visions aligned with mine and, last season, we had a glimmer of what’s to come.”
Going back in time, a young Chana was introduced to the sport by playing with her brothers. She then played for the boys’ team whilst in primary school, before moving to the U15 girls’ team at her local club, Long Lane JFC. Her journey saw her promoted to the First Team via a spell in the reserves, before she moved to Charlton Athletic’s Development Team. Dulwich Hamlet signed her soon afterwards, where she progressed through the reserves and into the First Team. Unfortunately, she wasn’t a part of any Academies because, “…they were so hard to get into.”
Does she think an Academy would have helped her football career?
“Definitely Chris. Usually, Academies are at big clubs and you grow with the team. It’s a good way to get yourself out there. You have more staff available, who are usually full-time coaches, so they have a lot more time to help develop you individually, as well as helping you to reach your full potential.”
Did she have aspirations of becoming a professional player, and would she change anything if she were able to?
“When I was a lot younger, becoming professional was on the horizon. Now? Anything is possible… Up The Darts! Hahaha! In all seriousness though, I’m very happy with my playing career.”
She continues, “To be honest Chris, I didn’t imagine that I’d still be playing now, but here I am! Playing as a young girl was tough for many reasons. Especially being told ‘no’ lots of times. But, sticking with it and fighting for the growth of women’s sport, and being able to demand more equality has made it easier for young girls today. Young girls are able to get into the sport easier now, and that’s something that’s very visible to see with the Dartford Girls and Women’s sides. I feel extremely proud to be a part of it.”
What about outside of the game? Does Chana work within the sport, and how does her job impact her ability to keep on top of her fitness levels?
“I’m a PE teacher and a Head of Year. Maintaining a level of positive mental health is important for me. Then everything after that kind of flows. Connor and Macca have done, and continue to do, a brilliant job in getting us in the gym, having access to a nutritionist, and regular strength and conditioning sessions. This makes things ten-times easier.
“As for me personally, some days I’ll either use the gym before or after work. I’ve also got quite an active family, so there’s always some form of physical activity on the cards.”
Having re-signed for another season at the club, the future is certainly looking bright for Chana and her teammates. And, there’s nothing but positive vibes coming from the camp when attention turns to the new season…
“We did the cup double last year. I see no reason to not go for the triple this season, as well as progress further in the FA Cup.”
Of course, while Chana and her teammates will do their utmost, they also need the support of the fans. So, I’ll let her have the last word with a message to everyone at Dartford…
“Thank you for your support last year. You really were the twelfth player of the team. We’re already looking forward to seeing you all again throughout the 2024-25 season.”
SECTION TWO
Faith or Superstition?
Faith.
Favourite Food?
I’m a lover of all food.
Favourite Drink?
Fruit Punch.
TV Series or Film?
TV Series.
Music or Podcast?
Music.
Sporting Hero?
Thierry Henry.
Non-Sporting Hero?
My Mum & Nan.
Do you follow any other sports besides football?
Boxing.
Biggest influence in the dressing room?
Nicha Dyett & Lizzie Adams.
What football players, past or present, would make up your dream five-a-side team?
David Seaman (Arsenal)
William Saliba (Arsenal)
Patrick Viera (Arsenal)
Martin Odegaard (Arsenal)
Thierry Henry (Arsenal)
By Chris Palmer