Sam Smith was signed at the start of the season, after impressing Ady Pennock and his coaching staff during pre-season.

A product of the Maidstone U19s, the 21-year-old made a handful of appearances for The Stones’ first team, before representing Folkestone Invicta and Ashford United on loan.

Since his arrival, the defender has been an important member of the Dartford defence and has made twelve appearances (11 starts) on the left side of the back three.

Sam is a confident player and a man of few words. He prefers to do his talking out on the pitch. And with a terrific left foot, he’s a constant threat to the opposition going forward as well as helping the defence protect the Dartford goal.

“I have a good passing range, which I believe can cause a threat to other teams and help us get into some good areas during games.”

Why did he sign for the Darts?

“Dartford is a club that has a good following. It’s very well run and has high ambitions. Being a local lad, I’ve always kept an eye on Dartford from a distance and, when the opportunity opened up for me to join during pre-season, it was something I was extremely interested in.

“I’m pleased that Ady believes in me enough to sign me, and I believe we have a squad capable of kicking on to achieve promotion. Even though we’ve not made the start we were all hoping for, the season is long and I believe we can still achieve success. On a personal note, I want to help with that goal by making as many appreances as possible.”

As we’re all aware of, many players at this level do have loyal intentions for the club they’re representing. They play for the shirt and are willing to stay on board and progress up the pyramid with the club. However, that’s not always possible in a sport where a successful career is extremely short. They yearn to play at the highest level possible and reach for the stars.

“I’d like to play at the highest level I possibly can. However, I also have to make sure that I’m enjoying myself at all times. That’s a big thing for me in football.”

He continues, “The most important thing for me is to always play with a smile on my face and to try to embrace and enjoy every minute. You only get one career in this sport.”

Mental health is such an important part of life and, it’s often at the forefront of many a topic in this day and age. And rightly so. But physical health is equally as important, as is fitness and natural ability in our beautiful game. What does Sam bring into the Dartford squad?

“I would say that I’m hard working, both on and off the pitch. I strive to better myself during training, and do my best to give myself that additional edge when I’m on the pitch.”

What are his thoughts on the remainder of the season?

“I think that, with the squad that Ady and his staff have put together, we have to be aiming for promotion. The changing room has a good buzz about it, and the results will start coming if we all stick together as a club.“

You heard the man! Success on the pitch requires support and unity off it. So let’s stick together no matter the results, afterall, this is our club and the players are our Darts!

SECTION TWO
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
Not really. I don’t believe in them too much. I don’t like to over-think and on matchdays, it’s just a case of getting out there and getting the job done for me.

Favourite footballer?
Mark Noble.

Favourite football team?
West Ham.

Favourite football moment?
Reaching the last 16 of the FA Cup with Maidstone and beating Ipswich Town away in the 4th round.

Biggest role model?
My Mum and Dad, as they have always supported me.

Team to watch out for in the league this season?
I think anyone can beat anyone on their day in this league, and the team who’s most consistent will achieve a lot this year.

Who are your biggest supporters?
Mum and Dad.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?
N/A.

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

Who will win the Premier League this season?
West Ham obviously!!! 😉

By Chris Palmer