Last weekend saw Dartford host Lewes at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. Dartford FC Women defender Georgie Davis featured in our matchday programme that afternoon. For those who missed it, here is the full article:
SECTION ONE
It’s always a pleasure to chat with Georgie Davis. Like her teammate and goalkeeper, Jade Charlton, she’s always the first person to come over for a hug and ask how you are when she sees you. That’s swiftly followed by, “Are you coming to the bar after the game?”, whereby she’ll meet you for a natter and beer… or two…!
She wears her heart on her sleeve, is easy to talk to, and possesses a wonderful sense of humour. Yet, underneath that persona lies a steely determination and love for the club, as well as Arsenal and her partner.
The Dartford FC Women’s number three gives her all in every game and dislikes losing, a trait that ensures that she’s one of the first players onto Connor Dymond and Martin McCarthy’s team-sheet for each fixture.
She has made more than 100 starting appearances for the club, an achievement that was recognised with an award from Chairman Steve Irving back in April before the First Team’s game against Truro City. Her 100th start actually arrived in Dartford FC Women’s fixture with Millwall Lionesses on the 10th of March (this year).
Not only is Georgie a top defender at this level, she’s also handy when a set-piece is required… and I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing one of her left-footed free-kicks fly into the top corner (last season, although I can’t remember the opponent!). At the time of writing, she has scored ten goals in all competitions during her Dartford career.
This season has seen her feature on eleven occasions, with five starts so far. And as always, she’s in good spirits during our discussion over WhatsApp…
“Hi Chris, I’m good thank you. How are you?” (I’m very well thank you Georgie)
She continues, “We had a rocky start to our season, but that doesn’t reflect how much hard work we ALL put into pre-pre season and pre-season! We’re all fighting for each other, as we all want the same thing… to win! The new players have fitted in really well, and us ‘old’ players have all stepped up our game! I’m excited to see what the rest of the season brings!”
Georgie has every right to be excited. Since that rocky start and narrow defeat away at Dorking Wanderers Women on opening day, the Darts have stormed to the summit of the London & South-East Regional Women’s Football League table with eight wins and a draw in an unbeaten league run of nine games.
The last fixture saw them deservedly beat Dorking Wanderers Women in the return fixture at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park last weekend. The ladies won 1-0, courtesy of a Brionne Fowle first-half header, which ensured that the side sit three points clear of Saltdean United by the end of Sunday’s matches.
With many new faces arriving this term, why did Georgie decide to remain at the club?
“There’s no other club I’d rather play football with Chris. So re-signing was a no brainer for me. I never want to let any of the girls or management down this season. So, I will always do my very best in every game, in training, and in the bits away from the pitch!”
And there it is… that steely determination to help her team succeed. Yet like her peers, she has to implement that determination into keeping herself fit and healthy whilst working a full-time job. For Georgie, this sees her working with the Charlton Athletic Community Trust.
“Yes, I help deliver a youth residential and/or community order called NC5 to 15-17-year-olds”. My work life changes throughout the year, so that affects the balance, but you just make it work.
“With work and family life, it’s difficult sometimes to make sure that when we train we train well. Having new members to the staffing team to help with nutrition, game management/performance, and stretching has had a good impact on all of us. And it’s made me realise that, it’s just as important to focus on what to do off the pitch in order to be able to perform well on it.”
Georgie’s time away from the beautiful game and work sees her try to spread time with family and friends, as well as recharge…
“I love to go fishing, as it relaxes me, plus I like to be outside in nature. It’s nice to de-stress and take my mind off things.”
Like her teammates, the opportunity to join a Football Academy wasn’t an option in the women’s/girl’s game sadly. But, Georgie doesn’t think it would have made any difference for her…
“Maybe when I was younger it would have helped, but I wouldn’t change the pathway I’ve had Chris, otherwise I wouldn’t be where I am today!”
Did she have aspirations of becoming a professional player when she was younger?
“I always had a dream when I was younger that I wanted to play football. But, becoming a professional was never an option for me. I still liked the idea as I got older, but other dreams and aspirations took over. So, becoming a professional player was never on the cards to be honest.”
Is she happy with how her career has panned out?
“Football has always been a part of my life Chris. Right from such a young age, when I’d go to watch my Dad play, and then meeting and watching (and warming up with) the Fulham Ladies team when I was eight. I realised then that football would take over my life, and is something my parents always supported me with… especially my Dad, who still comes to support me now.”
She continues, “As for the future, I want to continue playing the game for as long as my body will let me. I also want to start a family and continue to make memories, and not let anything stand in my way.”
There it is again, that steely determination and fighting spirit that is so inspiring. But that’s what makes her who she is. Loving, kind, and good for a laugh. Yet, determined and committed to this club and those she loves.
And as our conversation nears its end, I’ll go and get a couple of pints of beer (for Georgie and myself!), whilst she says a few words to the Dartford faithful…
“Please keep coming down to support us because, it doesn’t go unnoticed. We will keep performing to the best we can. We don’t just play for each other, but also for you guys too! So thank you! 🫶🏼”
SECTION TWO
Faith or Superstition?
Superstition.
Favourite Food?
Mac & Cheese or a Dirty Burger.
Favourite Drink?
Coffee or a Beer.
TV Series or Film?
TV Series.
Music or Podcast?
Music.
Sporting Hero?
Mikel Arteta.
Non-Sporting Hero?
Pink.
Do you follow any other sports besides football?
I like watching all sports.
Biggest influence in the dressing room?
All the girls have their own influence on me before the game. Jadey dancing around the dressing room, Shauni supplying me with one liners and oranges, Macca and Connor with words of empowerment and wisdom.
What football players, past or present, would make up your dream five-a-side team?
Thierry Henry (ex-Arsenal)
David Beckham (ex-Manchester United)
Sergio Ramos (ex-Real Madrid)
Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
Leah Williamson (Arsenal)
By Chris Palmer