Last month saw Dartford take on Burgess Hill Town at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. Chris Palmer spoke to Dartford FC Women midfielder Lizzie Adams, who featured in the matchday programme for that fixture. For those who missed it, here is the article:
Midfield General and former Captain, Lizzie Adams has been a Dartford FC Women player for many years now. Not only is she a loyal ambassador for the Darts, she’s also a champion for the women’s game in general, as well as the LGBTQ Community which fights for inclusion and fairness in all walks of life.
She’s fiercely competitive, driven, and hard-working. Yet Lizzie always finds the time to talk about her life and the beautiful game, despite her extremely busy schedule. And, she’s so excited to find out what her Dartford team can achieve again this season…
“I am so excited! It’s a brilliant team to be a part of, and we’re building momentum every week. That was why it was so frustrating to have the Ebbsfleet United game postponed earlier, but we will build again from here. I can’t wait for everyone to keep seeing what this team can do.”
That derby fixture was supposed to take place at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park on Sunday the 7th of September. Connor Dymond and Martin McCarthy’s outfit didn’t let its postponement derail their progress though, as they used the disappointment to fuel the following week’s trip to the Millwall Lionesses, who they hammered 5-0!
Lizzie was one of the goalscorers that afternoon, before the ladies followed it up with a 4-1 victory over AFC Greenwich Borough in the FA Cup.
At the time of writing, Dartford FC Women occupy third place in the London & South-East Regional Women’s Football League table, with four wins from their opening four fixtures. They have a game in hand over leaders Saltdean and Brentford in what has the potential to be another highly competitive league.
Having made four league appearances so far this season (three in the starting eleven), Lizzie has scored three goals already, and is clearly enjoying life here in Kent.
“The club can’t get rid of me! Hahaha! I think I said last year that I still feel I’ve got unfinished work to do with the club. And for the future of the women and girls set-up here at Dartford, and in general supporting this club to keep evolving and developing, which I know a lot of people are doing lots to help make that happen.”
She continues, “League Champions is the ultimate aim. However, my goal is also to break things down to focus on each game and getting the results we need every single match. We need to also focus on clean sheets, it’s such an important part of making sure we can be as resilient as possible in our title push.”
Despite being here for many years, it’s still obvious how much passion Lizzie has for the club and football in general…
“I just love football. It’s the only thing I think about when I’m playing it! I’m fortunate to work in and play football. So, when my playing time comes to an end, I’ll be able to keep working to make football a better place. It holds so much power and potential to unite and connect people in ways many other things can’t. I think it’s exciting and a responsibility of us all to use in a really positive and brilliant way. That’s what I hope to keep concentrating on, and remove barriers that others may face to feel that connection and opportunity with football.”
With her future fully marked out, let’s turn our attention to the present. Afterall, Lizzie is a vital member of the Dartford FC Women’s squad. She’s a traditional number ten, but with an edge and an engine that helps keep the Dartford machine going on matchdays.
“Yes, number ten is my favourite position to play. My work-rate is probably one of my biggest strengths, although my composure on the ball can be a weakness sometimes. But I do like to run and, in general, I’ve always been very vocal on the pitch which we place a huge focus on as a team.
“I’ve been here for many years and seen all sorts of different situations and challenges, so I can more easily take a step back and offer support and perspective. I also place a big emphasis on making sure people feel comfortable and fully part of the team.”
As she’s mentioned, Lizzie has seen all sorts of situations and challenges throughout her career. And she’s happy to elaborate more…
“The balance of what life throws at you is a challenge, as is working full-time with a job which requires me to travel a lot. I miss out on lots of occasions with family and friends, and trying to keep enough energy and focus for football all combine together as challenges. However, football also provides an outlet when some of those areas are challenging. It’s why I love the game so much.”
She continues, “Balancing travel, having enough time to fit everything in, and just keeping up enough energy levels are key areas that I focus on to help me deal with those challenging times.
“I use the experiences of where we fell short previously to help push myself onwards in order to not repeat previous mistakes. I also swim, play tennis, run, and do other workouts several days a week when we’re not playing games or training. All this helps to keep me motivated and as fit as possible.”
As far as matchdays are concerned, Lizzie is usually fairly relaxed. “I try to not get too worked out about games, and just get really focused and check in with everyone when we all get there. I make sure where everyone’s at.”
It’s a wonder that Lizzie finds the time to sit and focus on herself or eat, such is her busy schedule and time dedicated to others. Has she learnt anything during her time in the sport?
“Oh, many things! Lots about fairness, inclusion, and asking questions where you know there should be changes. Also, the value of perseverance, the opportunity for football to connect people from different generations, backgrounds, and perspectives. The sense of achievement when you’ve worked so hard for something as a group, and then achieve what you were hoping for. I was once told, when you’re given an opportunity, who else can you support and bring with you?”
That last sentence sums Lizzie up in a nutshell. Whilst she’s driven and wants success, her ultimate goal is others. Be they the next generation, the marginalised, or her teammates, she’s there to help and lay the foundations for the future.
And she’s more than happy to share some more of her wisdom and advice to the next generation…
“Make sure you have an outlet that’s not football. That can be your release when you need it, so you can keep fresh and focused on football when you’re playing/training.”
Wise words indeed.
SECTION TWO
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
For the second season running I’ve tried to avoid any superstitions, but I’m definitely doing more pre-match stretching now!
Favourite footballer?
I have many but most recent favourite is Michelle Agyemang.
Favourite football team?
I’m an Arsenal fan but in general love following football, especially across the different women’s leagues.
Favourite football moment?
From a work perspective, seeing hundreds of young people getting to play football at St George’s Park, where the England teams train, and seeing them have so much fun and get to experience the very best facilities.
From a playing perspective, several cup wins against teams in leagues above and also, although it was a terrible result, getting to play at Craven Cottage two seasons ago.
Biggest role model?
There are many people I take so much from in everyday life, but biggest role model has to be my Mum.
Team to watch out for in the league this season?
Dartford! Haha no I’m joking, Saltdean will be one of our biggest competitors along with Brentford who have big plans this season. Having played in this league for almost 10 years now though it’s safe to say we have to watch out for every team!
Who are your biggest supporters?
DFC Supporters Association! Amazing support and following that we get from them. And my family have also recently managed to get to one or two games and that was fun having my nephews watch me for the first time. Even though they can’t watch many games they’re always keen to find out how we get on.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I speak French and a bit of Spanish. I also grew up on a farm and can drive tractors, but I’m terrified of mice.
What sport would you do if you didn’t play football?
Probably tennis!
Who will win the WSL this season?
Has to be Arsenal this year, but I am enjoying seeing what London City Lionesses have got planned!
