Last month, Dartford took on Ramsgate. Chris Palmer spoke to Ellie Dolby, who featured in the matchday programme for that fixture. For those who missed it, here is the article:
Since her arrival from London City Lionesses at the beginning of last season, Ellie Dolby has been an important member of the Dartford FC Women squad.
To date, her statistics are 38 appearances (31 starts) and three goals. Fourteen of those starting appearances have been made this season, and she has chipped in with one goal so far.
With the London & South-East Regional Women’s Football League closing down for the Christmas festivities, Connor Dymond and Martin McCarthy’s outfit remain in sixth position of the league table, with 21 points from their eight games played (seven wins and one defeat). Yet, they have plenty of games in hand over their opponents above them.
Like her teammates, Ellie believes that the team will finish the season in a successful manner…
“The number one and most important ambition is to win the league. From day one, that’s been the objective since I’ve been here. This season feels different though, in a good way.”
She elaborates more, “I believe we have a really good chance this season. Collectively we’re working so hard and, hopefully, that pays off at the end of the campaign.”
Was that expected success the reason why Ellie decided to remain at Princes Park?
“There are many reasons why I wanted to extend my time here at Dartford. One being the coaching staff. I couldn’t ask for a better group to support me on this journey than the managers and staff. The trust and belief they have in me and this team is excellent, plus they push me to be the best player I can be. Also, the ethos and aims the club has are exactly what I look for in a club, and the girls are all on the same idea. They’re all so brilliant, I love them so much!”
Since she’s mentioned how Connor and Macca push her to be the best player she can be, what does Ellie believe she brings to the team?
“My best position is at right centre back or right wingback. I’d say that my biggest attribute is hard work. But all the girls are the same! I think I bring additional work-rate and desire to the team. I have good endurance as a player, and good defensive abilities. I do need to work on my communication on the pitch though.”
She continues, “The biggest thing that I look to do on matchdays is, to calm my mind and try to stay as focused as possible. I want to enjoy the time in the changing room with the girls and staff beforehand, but trying to stay as calm as possible is important.”
Has she learnt anything valuable during her football journey so far?
“I’ve learnt a lot of life lessons through football, one being to work hard at everything you do. You get nowhere by only putting in half of your potential in something.
“I feel completely free and happy when I’m on the pitch. Being around the team, having a laugh, and a good time… that’s my happy place. My life has always been directed by sport, so it’s just a part of me now. I’ve also been very lucky to be involved with supportive people and clubs!”
Having that supportive network around you is vital, especially for footballers who are looking to create a successful career out of the beautiful game. Ellie’s goal has always been to push herself towards professional football. She has ambitions of climbing up the women’s tier system as far as possible in order to play at the highest level she can.
Yet like her peers, Ellie knows only too well the challenges that balancing football with working life can bring…
“For me personally, I’d say the physical demands on my body are a challenge. Dog walking can be a lot sometimes, so coming home and having the motivation to go back out again to the gym and training is pretty tough. During a typical week, I’ll go to the gym either on training days or off days. I also do a run in the week, whether that’s a speed interval session, hill session, or just a longer run depends on how my body is feeling.
“There are definitely days when I struggle but, whenever I turn up at training, the energy the group has is motivation in itself. There are also a number of people who I can confide in if I need that little bit of extra help.”
It’s clear that Ellie has everything covered to help her improve as a player. And, in order for her to reach for the stars, she also lives by the advice once offered to her, in that the hard work will always pay off. So she keeps going.
Does she have any advice of her own for the next generation of footballer?
“Trust the process. It’s something that I’ve also been told to do. Everything takes care of itself, so just focus on what you can control and what you can work at, and things will fall into place. Put faith into the coaches and teammates you trust and they will take you far.”
Wise words from a player who has everything planned out ahead of her. Let’s hope that the Darts can achieve the success that Ellie and her teammates desire.
SECTION TWO
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
Always put my left anything on first… boots, socks, shin pads, and always have a flapjack before warm up.
Favourite footballer?
Eden Hazard.
Favourite football team?
Millwall.
Favourite football moment?
The women winning the Euros, both times!! Also beating QPR on penalties in the FA Cup.
Biggest role model?
My Dad.
Team to watch out for in the league this season?
DARTFORD!
Who are your biggest supporters?
My Dad, boyfriend, and Grandad.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
That I am a dog walker!
What sport would you do if you didn’t play football?
I would do track running.
Who will win the WSL this season?
Manchester City.
By Chris Palmer