Dartford took on Lewes last month. Chris Palmer spoke to Izzy Franklin, who featured in the matchday programme for that fixture. For those who missed it, here is the article:
This is Izzy Franklin’s first season within the Dartford FC Women’s First Team squad. The defender has made eight appearances to date, with four of those coming in the starting eleven.
With fourteen games being played so far, Connor Dymond and Martin McCarthy’s outfit currently occupy third in the London & South-East Regional Women’s Football League table with 37 points. The recent 4-0 drubbing over rivals Ebbsfleet United means the Darts are just six points behind leaders Saltdean, but have two games in hand.
Having joined the club in December, Izzy has one thing in mind…
“My ambition is to win the league of course! I joined the club just before Christmas and, having seen Dartford play a few times, I knew it was a club I’d do well at and enjoy playing for.
“I think our chances of success are very high but, ultimately, it’s down to us and what we do with it. We’ve got a big squad with lots of potential and, of course, no team can ever match our work rate!”
Having played at a higher level before, Izzy’s experience should hold her in good stead, as well as improve an already excellent Dartford side. And she remains as ambitious as ever…
“I want to keep progressing as much as I can. I’ve already played seasons at Tier Three, so it’d be good to get back in and around that level again.”
What does Izzy bring to the Darts, and what does she believe sets her apart from other players?
“Without being big headed, I think my technical ability and my eye to pick passes out, and play those certain passes is what sets me apart. I bring additional energy and positiveness to the team. Whether I’m on the pitch or cheering from the sideline, I’ll cheer the team on until the end.”
She continues, “My biggest strength is my ability to read the game and understand it, so that I know where I need to be and what’s going to happen next. However, my weakness is that I very much wear my heart on my sleeve when I play.”
During her playing career so far, Izzy has learnt to always get the referee on her team’s side from the very start! But more importantly…
“Football is very much a happy place. I love just playing and having fun. I’ve met so many new people along my career, and I’ve made some real life-long friends.”
Of course, there are always low points alongside the highs in football, and Izzy isn’t a stranger to those challenges.
“The biggest challenges I’ve had to face is coming back from injuries and having to go through rehab. Realising that I can’t just get straight back into playing is tough. You have to be patient… which I’m not! 😂”
Of course, it’s also no secret that footballers at this level are part-time, which poses additional challenges to Izzy and her teammates…
“Yes, I’m actually new to the working scene and I’m not a fan of it at all! 😂 In all seriousness though, yes I do go to the gym as and when I can. However, I’m a PE teacher, so I’m constantly doing activities throughout the day anyway.”
Is motivation ever an issue?
“Not really, no. Having my main goal for the end of the season but, within that, also taking it week by week and game by game, as well as working on the things that I need to in order to improve all help to keep me motivated.
“And on matchdays I always like to stay relaxed and get as much of a lay in as I can. Sleep is my favourite…! I’ll have a breakfast of beans on toast normally, and my hair has to be slicked back perfectly… even if that takes me ages to do! 😂”
It appears that Izzy has everything under control, and her experience and wisdom will serve her and Dartford FC Women well for the remainder of this season and beyond. And like one of her teammates, she lives by a quote she was once told…
“I was always told when I was younger and going through the academies that, ‘hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard enough.’ I think it’s always stuck with me throughout my career so far.”
Does she have any advice of her own to share with those looking to follow in her footsteps?
“Believe in yourself, stay dedicated, and work hard. Progress takes time, but consistency is key.”
Wise words indeed from this talented defender.
SECTION TWO
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
I actually have a few… I always put my right boot on first and always wear the same sports bra, unless I lose in it! Then I won’t wear it again!
Favourite footballer?
Gabriel. I like the way he’s calm and composed in defence.
Favourite football team?
Millwall.
Favourite football moment?
When I was made captain of Kent at U14 level. For me personally, that was very big.
Biggest role model?
My Grandad.
Team to watch out for in the league this season?
Us… who else could there even be!?
Who are your biggest supporters?
My Mum and Dad. They have driven all over the country to never miss a game of mine. I have this thing with my Dad that, during the game, he gives me a little thumbs up if I’m playing well, or he’ll raise it if I need to do a bit better. So I always have to find them before the game starts to know where to look.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
That I only have one kidney.
What sport would you do if you didn’t play football?
Rugby. I was actually meant to play that before I started football, as all my family did and I have that little feisty side to me! 😂
Who will win the WSL this season?
Man City. They are quite a few points clear, so they just can’t fumble it now.
Chris Palmer