Jade Charlton is a name and face that everyone associated with Dartford should be aware of! The Dartford FC Women’s number one goalkeeper has been around for many years, not only as a player, but as a voice for her teammates and the club as a whole.

Whether she’s raising funds for the club, raising awareness for the women’s game, or raising both funds and awareness for a teammate going through difficult times (think of Rachel Ahern most recently), Jade is always there on the front-line.

Why? Because she cares. She has a huge heart. And, she’s always one of the first to go out of her way to greet you with a hug and that infectious smile of hers.

Yet here she is, still putting on the gloves to help her team win, despite being a mum of two young boys and the partner (some would say, the better half!) of Co-Manager Connor Dymond. But her enthusiasm never subsides.

“Life’s busy with two kids, but I’m good. Preston has started playing football now as well, so I have a lot of juggling going on, especially during the summer holiday when I still have to work… these six weeks are always a tough time for parents, hahaha!”

One might question why Jade continues to play and has re-signed with the Dartford FC Women’s camp for another tough campaign but, for her the answer is simple:

“I love playing football. It’s my safe space, an outlet to do something that’s not only for myself, but also being part of a team. I just love being around people and being part of a team.”

“Yes, I’m back for another year” she says, “Why? I feel that we have goals that we haven’t reached yet and, I’m just trying to continue playing until I can’t play anymore. When I think about it, you only have a small period of time that you’re able to do things you enjoy before you reach an age where you can’t anymore. I’m getting to that age!

“I’m now playing for enjoyment. Whether it’s ten games or 33 games, I’ll just try to be there as a good team player and not put too much pressure on myself.”

There’s so much truth and humility in her voice, as the knowledge of age and retirement hovers over the horizon. Yet, Jade’s passion and motivation still remains despite that:

“I’d love to play in the National League, so that means that we need to get promoted. I have a lot of experience… I reckon that I’ve played over 500 games of football. But a lot of the girls are a lot younger now, so I’ll try to use my experience to guide them and give them advice.”

As I’ve already mentioned, Jade has a huge heart. She cares. And, no matter how many fixtures she’s able to play, she’ll never cease from supporting her teammates in every way possible in order to try and win promotion.

“I believe my strength lies in my voice and ability to communicate and support the team, both on and off the pitch. On the pitch, I try to make the team understand what’s going on in a game from a goalkeeper’s perspective. I’m a great shot-stopper and catcher of the ball, but speed is a weakness. I need quicker feet, hahaha! Off the pitch, I make sure that the changing room is a happy one, I check in with everyone to make sure they’re okay. If I feel they’re not looking confident, I try to become a ‘hype’ girl! I just try to support everyone as much as possible.”

Life has had its challenges for this goalkeeper, both on and off the pitch. Yet, Jade has tremendous self-belief in her abilities and coping with what she refers to as “other people’s agendas”. However, she rises above each challenge and never let’s her love of the sport dissipate.

“I’ve had to really question myself with being a goalkeeper during the last couple of years. Not only in regards to my ability as a goalkeeper, but especially my body after having two children and then trying to be the same goalkeeper. You’re dealing with your body changing the way you look and your abilities. I admit that I found it extremely tough.

“You don’t have to stop once you have children. You can still play and even become better than you were before. You also never stop learning, as there are always so many new skills and things to learn, whether that’s in football or life.”

She continues, “I’ve made so many friends for life in this sport, relationships that I’ll treasure forever. However, there are some who you think are a friend but, actually aren’t and use things to get themselves a gain in the football environment. That’s a real life lesson to be aware of, for not everyone is genuine.”

That’s such a wise statement from Jade. No matter your personality, sometimes you must remain guarded against the so-called wolves in sheep’s clothing. However, Dartford is a football club chock full of wonderful, genuine people. And like Jade, I remain delighted and humbled to be a part of the family.

Of course, many can still learn a lot from this goalkeeper. Despite her insanely busy schedule, she always approaches each day with confidence and positivity, looking to bring smiles to everyone’s faces, whether teammates or others associated with the club.

Everyone can have a bad or extremely tiresome day of course, but Jade never allows such matters to dwell in her mind and her work outside of the sport is a real blessing for her.

“Juggling work, football, and my kids is the hardest thing, as is trying to be organised and punctual. We have to rely on a family friend to help with the kids, for which we’re forever grateful. So, not only am I there to support the team, I’m supported by others there as well. And my work is super flexible. As long as I get my work done, they’re happy.”

Having missed out on promotion once again last season, the ambition for the Dartford FC Women’s camp is still the same, to win the league. And regardless of how busy life gets, Jade still insists on trying to visit the gym three times a week, as well as having two sessions a week with her personal trainer.

“I want to keep on top of my fitness. Obviously, winning games and trying to win trophies keeps you motivated. Luckily for us, we are a competitive side that’s always near the top of the league, which helps with keeping you motivated. But, keeping fit also helps.

“We have a revamped team this season, with a little refresh in the players’ department. A few have left, while some new faces have been coming in. I feel that it’s going to be a good challenge once again, and I’m looking forward to it. I believe we’re in for a good chance again.”

We’ll certainly be hoping for another successful campaign from the ladies, and for another excellent season between the sticks for the experienced and ever-wise goalkeeper, who has some advice for the younger generation:

“Keep pushing yourself. If you feel that you can’t, remember that you CAN do it. Always look to improve and increase your skills and/or knowledge. I’d advise any girl looking to get into football, that you’ll make some amazing and unbreakable friendships, plus football for girls has improved massively now.”

SECTION TWO
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
Sugary cup of tea and a can of Coke Zero, followed by hyping everyone up in the changing room.

Favourite footballer?
Female, you’ve got to love Chloe Kelly! Male, Steven Gerard or David Beckham…!

Favourite football team?
Manchester United.

Favourite football moment?
Being a part of winning the double season in 2023/2024.

Biggest role model?
In my life at the moment, my fiancé, someone I absolutely adore.

Team to watch out for in the league this season?
Brentford. Another Premier League team putting a lot of money into their women’s team.

Who are your biggest supporters?
The team have got some great supporters out there, and I would say every single one of them are our biggest supporters.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?
That I’m a Graphic Designer and have kids.

What sport would you do if you didn’t play football?
I would play badminton or darts, I absolutely love them.

Who will win the WSL this season?
Arsenal.