Tuesday night saw Dartford take on Whitehawk at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. Chris Palmer spoke to Dartford FC Women defender Georgie Davis, who featured in the matchday programme for that fixture. For those who missed it, here is the article:
Georgie Davis is a name that everyone associated with Dartford FC Women should be aware of. And not just within the women’s camp, but across the club as a whole.
The defender is one of the longest serving players at the club, and alongside her teammates, does so much for the club behind the scenes.
She’s always smiling, always approachable, and always quick to join you for a pint after an afternoon of football! As always, it’s a pleasure to chat with her, no matter how or where, or what she’s doing. That’s Georgie Davis in a nutshell.
Having been an original member of the Dartford FC Women’s squad, she was never going to go anywhere else…
“I’ve literally put in a lot of blood, sweat, and tears for this club! The girls are my family, I can’t be without them! I can’t imagine ever playing for any other squad. I just love playing for the team and the management, and I have a feeling that this might actually be our year.”
She continues, “I’m pleased the season has started and that we have got a few wins under our belt early on. We’ve had a much better start than last season, and I’m really excited to see what this campaign will bring for us.”
The timing of writing this piece comes just after the ladies had beaten QPR FC Women on penalties to progress through to the FA Women’s Cup First Round Proper, where they’ll soon face Forest Green Rovers FC Women.
Connor Dymond and Martin McCarthy’s outfit also have a one hundred percent record after their opening five league games, which sees them sitting third in the London & South-East Regional Women’s Football League table with games in hand over leaders Brentford and Saltdean United.
What does Georgie think of her team’s chances this season?
“I think we’ve got a big chance of success this season. The new girls have fitted in straight away and have made us stronger as a unit. I think we’ll win the league, 100%! All the teams in our league want to beat Dartford, so it won’t be easy, but we are ready for the challenge.”
Fighting words from this left-wingback. But, that’s Georgie! She’s one of the most influential players within the squad, and she’s a natural talker…
“I’m a bit of a gobby player! I’m always talking to the players out on the pitch. I like the girls to know that I have got their backs. I’m approachable and easy-going, but I’m fiercely competitive and embrace the challenge of football and competing for my shirt. I enjoy playing, and that gives me extra confidence.”
Not only is she a vocal player, Georgie also has a wonderful left foot, which provides dangerous crosses into opposition territory on a regular basis. She’s a constant threat on the left-flank, and is also strong in both attacking and defensive situations.
“I just love helping my teammates. However, my mind can also be a weakness. I’m my own worst critic, and I hate the thought of letting the team or management down. That’s an area that I’m trying to work on to be honest.”
Does she have a favourite playing position?
“Left wingback is my favourite position, hands down! I just love playing football though, I always have. I love playing and watching football, as well as all sport in general. I used to watch my Dad play when he was younger, then started playing myself after seeing Katie Chapman play for Fulham. I’ve been in love with the sport ever since.”
Of course, no amount of love for the beautiful game can prepare you for the challenge of balancing working life with the sport. Especially at this level where all players also work outside of the game. And Georgie knows this only too well…
“The hardest thing about juggling football and work is my own personal time. If I’m not at football, I’m at work, and vice versa. So I try to find that healthy balance because, it’s important to spend time with my partner in our home, as well as spend time with family and friends. It’s hard, but manageable. You do need those people around you who will support you.”
She continues, “I’ve learnt to be happy. I believe that, if you’re smiling and happy, then you’ll perform better out on the pitch as well. The vibe within the team is a huge motivating factor for me. I love the vibe. When you’re getting that every week, that’s motivating enough to help you through the season. We, as a team, push and motivate each other as well as look out for each other. And, once the football starts, the seasons fly by quickly anyway!”
How does she prepare for matchdays and, does Georgie do additional fitness work outside of training to help herself?
“My approach to matchdays might differ slightly depending on whether we’re home or away. Regardless of that, I always make sure that my body is ready on the morning of matchdays. I try to remain calm and collected. Any pressure or fear I experience, I’ll save and use as a motivating factor out on the pitch.
“I do go to the gym to do my own workouts, etc… as well. While I’m at work, I also find the time to do a bit of football, such as a kick-a-bout session or something. I’m mindful of my body and mind. In fact, the best advice I have ever received was to always stay hydrated! Always impress both on and off the pitch if you’re looking to excel. Be yourself and always be available to learn.”
We’re never too old to learn, that’s the beauty of life. And as Georgie continues to gain experience and knowledge, what are her plans for the future?
“For my football career, I’m not really sure to be honest. I’m in my thirties now, so I kinda just take each season as it comes. I’m certainly not ready to give up football, that’s for sure! It’s not just about the games though, it’s the community and fans too. I love the community. I love having a drink and chat with fans, friends, and family after games, as well as outside of football. That’s important to me.”
The community that football clubs offer to people is most certainly vital. It’s just one of things that brings people to Dartford, and something that the club strives to continue championing.
And there’s no bigger champions of this than the Dartford FC Women’s squad, not to mention their championing of the women’s game. Does Georgie have any advice for the younger generation?
“Exactly the same as what I received to be honest… stay hydrated! Always impress both on and off the pitch if you’re looking to excel. Be yourself and always be available to learn. Be happy, be honest, communicate and, obviously, work hard!”
That also sums up Georgie Davis. She might be a gobby player… something that is needed out there on the pitch. But she’s also a loyal, happy, approachable person, and one of the first to offer a hug followed by a drink or two. In other words, she’s a legend.
SECTION TWO
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
I stay hydrated, and I always put a bit of tape around my wrist. I don’t know why, I’ve just always done it.
Favourite footballer?
Sergio Ramos.
Favourite football team?
Arsenal.
Favourite football moment?
Winning the cup with the girls. That feeling of achieving something so big with the club, with the girls, and with people that want to be around you is such a wonderful feeling.
Biggest role model?
I’d say a lot of the older female footballers because, they’ve been through so much during a time when girls weren’t recognised as good football players. My Dad is also a big role model.
Team to watch out for in the league this season?
Us. Watch out for Dartford!
Who are your biggest supporters?
My Dad, and anyone who comes to support us, especially the younger generation.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I am a Second Dan in Karate, I have two black belts.
What sport would you do if you didn’t play football?
Basketball… I’m quite tall! I also like skiing. In fact, I like any type of sport and would give anything a go!
Who will win the WSL this season?
Arsenal.
By Chris Palmer