It’s always a pleasure to chat with Shauni Griffiths. On this occasion, she talks while enjoying a relaxing holiday abroad in the sun and, as always, her positivity and sense of humour shine through while we talk about the season ahead.

Whilst she’s a bubbly character off the pitch, on it she’s fiercely competitive. Her creative abilities, pace, technique, and eye for goal continue to make her a deadly opponent to come up against. And, despite numerous new arrivals to the Dartford FC Women’s camp, the winger is one of a few who remains the first name to be written into Connor Dymond and Martin McCarthy’s teamsheet each week.

Is being a winger her favourite position to play?

“I’ve been played as a striker and in a number ten role as well, and I enjoy them both. But, I’ve been really enjoying playing up front as a striker recently.”

Shauni is one of the longest serving players to remain at the club. Why did she decide to remain at Princes Park?

“I was only ever going to sign for Dartford again this season. This club is like my other family, and I love the vibes and atmosphere here. Plus, it’s right on my doorstep!”

With the new arrivals during the summer hoping to contribute towards lifting the team to the next level, what does Shauni think Dartford’s chances are this season?

“I have faith in us that we will have a successful season! We want to win the league! We’ve been in this league (The London & South-East Regional Women’s Football League) for far too long! I’d also like us to win the other cup competitions that we’re in too.”

She continues,<span;> “I’m 31 now, so I’m getting on! But, I just want to be able to help this club to finally win the league and pass on my experience to the younger players. I believe that my experience and knowledge of the game is the biggest contribution that I bring to this team.

“I can still hold the ball up well, use my pace to take on opposition players, and I’ve still got a good shot on me! However, I can also be my own worst critic, and I have a tendency to allow that to get into my head.”

I think that Shauni isn’t alone in that last statement. We can all have a tendency to criticise ourselves, especially when we strive for excellence and when results depend on it. Yet, we are also constantly learning in an ever-evolving sport and world, so we must grasp opportunities and enjoy life.

“I was once told to enjoy the game because, you will play better! Never give up. Mistakes and setbacks are part of the game, but it’s how you respond to them that makes you the player you are.

“I’ve been playing football since I was seven! It’s my outlet and my go-to thing which enables me to switch off from life for a little while.”

How does she still manage to remain motivated to continue playing football? Afterall, there’s a younger generation chomping at the bit to get started…

“Obviously, winning and playing well helps! Also, the girls and management team really help me to stay motivated. I also go to the gym two-three times a week in addition to our training, plus I don’t work on Sundays (matchdays for the ladies), so I don’t really struggle with having to balance my working life with football.”

Like in all things, the beautiful game comes with its challenges. Especially the women’s game. However, the rise and success of the Lionesses has changed the sport for the better, and it’s future is most certainly bright. Players like Shauni have experienced their own challenges too, be they personal or worldly…

“When I was growing up, women’s football wasn’t anywhere near as big as it is now. That’s a challenge in itself! I was also told that I’d never get far in the sport when growing up, so my confidence and self-belief hasn’t always, and still isn’t great.”

Words have the power to lift up a person, or destroy them in ways too horrible to bear thinking about. The best advice that this Dartford FC Women’s attacker has ever received included words that lifted her up, instead of dragging her down…

“I was once told to believe in my own ability, to not over-think, and to always play with a smile on my face!”

And that’s exactly what you see when you watch Shauni play! Fiercely competitive, technically gifted, yet always smiling. She’s also blessed with experience and knowledge, which she’s ready to pass on to the next generation of Dartford FC Women players…

“Never give up on your goals. Keep showing up and working hard, and trust the process. Enjoy every moment and believe in yourself!”

SECTION TWO
Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
I always have to have a hot bath in the morning of gamedays to relax me (weird I know), and I have pancakes with Nutella for breakfast…!

Favourite footballer?
David Beckham and Alessia Russo.

Favourite football team?
Millwall.

Favourite football moment?
Ooh, there are many, but one of mine is having the opportunity to get to play on a scholarship in America. We were runners-up in the national tournament in Florida!

Biggest role model?
My Mum. She’s a legend!

Team to watch out for in the league this season?
Saltdean will be a tough game for us.

Who are your biggest supporters?
My Mum. Always has been and always will be!

What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I have participated in three charity boxing matches for cancer! And I also have Greek blood in me, hence why I tan easily!

What sport would you do if you didn’t play football?
I have done boxing for charity before, and I love a bit of badminton!

Who will win the WSL this season?
Arsenal.