Last weekend saw Dartford host Hashtag United at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. Dartford FC Women right-back Gabby Howell featured in our matchday programme that afternoon. For those who missed it, here is the full article:
SECTION ONE
Gabby Howell signed for Dartford FC Women last season from Sutton United. Having also featured for Crystal Palace and Carshalton Athletic, the 25-year-old right-back came straight into Connor Dymond and Martin McCarthy’s side to make 28 appearances in both league and league Cup. Twenty of those appearances came in the starting eleven, and she also contributed with two goals.
This season sees her remaining in the side as a formidable and vital part of the Dartford FC Women’s defensive unit. The right-footed player has featured on seventeen occasions, ten being in the starting eleven in both league and league cup competitions.
Together with her teammates, she has contributed towards the team’s superb league form which sees them remain at the top of the London & South-East Regional Women’s Football League table. Having won eleven of their 14 games played so far, the Darts sit six points clear and their latest fixture saw them defeat local rivals Ebbsfleet United 3-1 at The Kuflink Stadium to progress into the Semi-Finals of the League Cup.
I had the pleasure of speaking to Gabby via WhatsApp during the Christmas period, whereby she was in good spirits.
“I’m very well thanks Chris. I’m looking forward to the new year and all the adventures that it brings. How are you?” (I’m very well thanks for asking Gabby!)
She continues, “It’s always a pleasure to wear the kit and to represent this club. I think the girls that have come into the squad this season have been great, and we have bonded well as a team.”
Were the new additions the reason why she decided to remain at the club?
“The reason why I initially signed with the club was down to the players and how friendly everyone was. I also thought about playing against Dartford if I didn’t sign, and to be quite frank, I didn’t want to do that! The reason I re-signed was because of the amazing season we had previously, as well as how much of a family club it is. For me, coming into the team, I was lacking confidence but, after last season and how much I’ve learnt, I have gained more confidence and, therefore, was happy to remain here.”
As we begin getting to know Gabby, where did it all start for her? Was she able to begin her football journey with an Academy?
“No Chris, there wasn’t many football academies local to me at the time. I kind of fell into a football team by chance. At my primary school, the year above me had a game with low numbers, and the teacher asked my Mum if I could play, knowing I had three brothers. I played my first game and the Chairman of Crystal Palace was there, and that’s how it all started.”
After her time with the Eagles, Gabby went on to play for Carshalton Athletic and Sutton United, before moving to Dartford. Does she feel that an Academy would help girls get into the sport today?
“With the step ups they have now for girls, I think it would definitely help yes, simply on the basis that you’re playing more often and will be coached more.”
The women’s game has changed and improved dramatically in recent years. The success and exploits of the Lionesses has helped change the game for the better, with many young girls more confident of a career in the beautiful game. Did Gabby have aspirations of becoming a professional player?
“At the very beginning I did. However, when I was young the England ladies had two jobs and it wasn’t a career option like you see today. Therefore, my dream of playing for England fizzled out during my young teenage years.”
She continues, “But I believe that everything happens for a reason, so I wouldn’t change where I have played, etc… I would say that, if I could advise any young girls, it would to be that ‘football is an opinionated game. Just because one person doesn’t like the style you play, doesn’t mean you’re a bad player. To add to that, don’t be your biggest critic. Never go in to have a perfect game and learn from your mistakes.’ I guess, if I could, I’d like to change my own mentality when growing up.”
Such wise words from this 25-year-old defender. And, as she has mentioned the England ladies having two jobs, what does Gabby do outside of the game and how does it impact her ability to remain fit and healthy?
“I work in the fashion industry Chris. I’m a Garment Technologist. Outside of that, I’m mostly in the gym, or eating nice food with my best friends. My life is always hectic to be honest, as I work in West London, which is typically a 2-hour journey door-to-door. After work, I tend to go straight to the gym. But, I’m happy to do it because it does help me mentally and, generally, I like being in a routine.”
She continues, “To be honest Chris, nutrition isn’t my strong suit… I love a snack! (Don’t we all Gabby, hahaha!) I do watch what I eat though, I tend to stick with salads for lunch and fruit as a snack too. In terms of fitness, as I’ve said, I love going to the gym. So typically, I would train with football twice a week, then go to the gym 2-3 times a week. Working out kind of ties into my general wellbeing, as I find working out quite therapeutic. I just love the feeling you get after a good workout.”
It certainly seems that Gabby has everything sorted out and planned. She comes across as a confident and organised person, yet there is a feeling of a more relaxed and even humorous side to her as well (as we’ll soon discover…). And at just the age of 25, she still has an awful lot to offer to both the fashion industry and the football world.
“I really hope we can win the league for sure. And I’d like to continue playing with the team for a few seasons in the league above, possibly the one above that too!”
Fighting and inspiring words from this right-back, and something that this current incarnation of Connor Dymond and Martin McCarthy’s squad can certainly achieve in the next few years. And as our conversation reaches its end, does Gabby have any words for the Dartford faithful?
“Let’s keep it short and sweet Chris… UP THE DARTS!!! P.S. How short is Macca…??!!”
SECTION TWO
Faith or Superstition?
Superstition.
Favourite Food?
Italian – to be precise, wild clams pasta with garlic and white wine sauce.
Favourite Drink?
Dr Pepper or Rose.
TV Series or Film?
TV Series.
Music or Podcast?
Music.
Sporting Hero?
I Don’t really have one. Being a Spurs fan, my favourite player growing up was Moussa Dembele.
Non-Sporting Hero?
My Parents.
Do you follow any other sports besides football?
Darts and Netball.
Biggest influence in the dressing room?
There’s a few. In terms of energy, I would say Emily Woodhouse, Jadey, and Emily Vaughan, due to follow the leader. In terms of cheering us up, I’d say Lizzie Adams.
What football players, past or present, would make up your dream five-a-side team?
Gabby chose six players, so one has to go on the bench!
Peter Schmeichel (ex-Manchester United)
Roberto Carlos (ex-Real Madrid)
Ashley Cole (ex-Arsenal)
Steven Gerrard (ex-Liverpool)
Moussa Dembele (ex-Tottenham)
Ronaldo (ex-Inter Milan)
By Chris Palmer