Gabby Howell was signed by Connor Dymond and Martin McCarthy from Sutton United the season before last.

The right-back was an imperative member of the Dartford FC Women’s defence last season, making 25 appearances in all competitions, seventeen of which were in the starting eleven. And her importance remains, as she has started all seven fixtures this season so far.

The defender loves it here in Kent, which is just one of the reasons why she decided to remain here at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park…

“I love it here! Don’t get me wrong, I’ve had my moments. But I feel like I’ve been pushed mentally, both football-related and life-related here. I’ve been coached in life and in football here, and I’m excited to see how much more I can grow. Plus, I love the girls. We have built such a fun environment here, that’s honestly like a second family. I’ve got no complaints. I’m happy to be a Dart!”

As the saying goes, once a Dart always a Dart, regardless of how long a player stays here. Once you’ve worn the shirt and played for the badge, you’re a Dart for life, a member of the family. And this Dartford FC Women’s squad is certainly a family, yet one that’s on the road to something truly special.

What does Gabby think of her team’s chances of achieving success again this season?

“I think this season could be the best yet. We are super determined to make this season one to never forget. It would be great to go undefeated in the league, and to get into the cup finals again like last year. We’re all happy to continue putting in the hard work in order to achieve success, but having everyone at our games helps us lots. We would love as many people as possible to be a part of the journey with us.”

That last sentence is an important part of what this team stands for. Unity and togetherness is vital for success, and these ladies promote inclusion and acceptance in their family, of which we are all a part of. And they deserve our respect and support, more so now than ever before.

Returning to Gabby, what are her personal goals for the season and for her career as a whole?

“The goal is to win the league and go up to the National League. Personally, I just want to keep growing as a player. I’m always eager to learn and just want to be the best I can be.

“I’d like to go as far as I possibly can. But enjoying my football is important. To be honest, I’m a bit of a geek for the sport, so I wouldn’t mind going into coaching eventually as well.”

She continues, “Within the camp, I’m known to ask a LOT of questions! I honestly just love studying the game, so I always try to get the most I can out of every session and game by asking as many questions as possible. I guess I like going into the details.<span;>“

There’s certainly nothing wrong with that, as we’re never too old to learn. On the flip side, what does Gabby bring to the team?

“I wish I could say ability on the ball, but it is defiantly my voice. I’d say that I’m constantly talking during the games, and I try to help my teammates by giving information to dictate the game.

“A strength of mine is probably tackles. I do back myself in one-on-one scenarios, and the constant talking and reading of games. However, I’d say that air headers are probably a weakness of mine, as well as my decision-making when on the ball sometimes.”

Gabby’s honesty is just one of her personality traits that draws you to her. And she’s not one to shy away from a challenge…

“Football means a lot to me and, I honestly think I’ve cried more over football than anything else in my life! Hahaha! I always want to do well, and I put pressure on myself to do that. I think the biggest challenge I’ve faced, and still face, is confidence and the mental challenges surrounding that. Being completely transparent, if I didn’t start, I would take it personally and struggle mentally with that. It’s taken me time to really understand ‘trust the process’ and be the best player and teammate I can be.”

She continues, “Being a good teammate is probably the most important thing I’ve learnt. In life, we rely on friends and family (they are our teammates). Football has allowed me to be a better person when it sometimes doesn’t go the way I want it to. The sport has made me appreciate the highs and the lows. I think it’s just helped me become a better person mentally.

“I just love playing football. I come from a footy family, so I don’t remember a time when I didn’t love the sport if I’m completely honest. I love the competition of it.”

Does she have a favourite playing position?

“Oh gosh, I’ve played in a fair share of positions. I think, sometimes that’s dependant on who we’re playing. I’ve been enjoying my new role as a CDM, but I’m very much still learning it. But I do also like playing at right-back in a back four.”

How does Gabby approach matchdays, and how does she stay motivated throughout the long seasons?

“On matchdays, I like to watch a bit of Only Fools And Horses in the morning, together with a coffee. On my way to football I’ll be singing my heart out in the car, and just try to not overthink the game ahead. I just turn up, get the job done, and then enjoy.

“During the week, I’m always in the gym. Saturdays are my rest days, otherwise I’m always doing some type of exercise. I’m motivated by always striving to improve and be the best I can be for the girls. We’ve created a family unit, so I just don’t want to let them down. That keeps me motivated.”

She continues, “One of the hardest things about juggling football and work is, probably the fact that I have to get dressed in my car to get to training on time! I work in West London, so I wake up at 5.30am, leave by 7am, and won’t get home until around 10pm! The days are very long.”

Has anyone ever given her any advice that she lives by?

“Yes, my Dad. He always told me that, if for whatever reason it’s not going my way on the ball or I’m having one of ‘those days’, then I need to just talk myself back into the game. It certainly helps!”

Does Gabby have any advice of her own for the next generation of footballer?

“Be the best team player you can be. Whether that’s checking in on players or simply talking to them during the game to make the game easier… for example, turn, set, man on, etc… Talking is important.”

And that can sum up Gabby Howell the football player. She is constantly mindful of her teammates and her own performances, making sure that she doesn’t let her side down. As she continues to grow and improve, there’s no doubt that she’d make an excellent future captain within the Dartford FC Women camp.

SECTION TWO
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
Not at all haha!

Favourite footballer?
Mousa Dembele, Spurs player. A literal goat!

Favourite football team?
Spurs.

Favourite football moment?
Winning the double!

Biggest role model?
My family.

Team to watch out for in the league this season?
Saltdean.

Who are your biggest supporters?
My family.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?
Oh god. Erm… I hate roast dinners!

What sport would you do if you didn’t play football?
Netball.

Who will win the WSL this season?
Chelsea.