Saturday saw Dartford entertain Bowers & Pitsea at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. Emily Vaughan featured in our matchday programme that afternoon. For those who missed it, here is the full article:
SECTION ONE
If you’ve followed the Dartford FC Women’s team in recent years, then the name Emily Vaughan should be familiar… for the 32-year-old striker is deadly in front of goal. At the start of the new season, she has netted a total of 75 goals for the Darts (45 league goals and 30 in cup competitions)!
And, her form has continued into this campaign with her scoring twice in the 8-0 thrashing of Newhaven Ladies FC last month. That means the striker needs only 23 more goals to reach the magical 100 mark! A target that could be achieved this season.
Outside of football though, life has been extremely busy for Emily this year. The timing of our discussion over WhatsApp occurred just before she went away for a break…
“I’m good thank you Chris. It’s been a busy year, so I’m heading on my last holiday of the year this weekend. I’m looking forward to a bit of sun, as we haven’t had much here…!”
She’s certainly correct there! As our summer seems to offer nothing but cold and rainy weather in recent weeks. However, the sun has been shining on the Dartford FC Women’s team. Afterall, despite falling short of the London & South-East Regional Women’s Football League title (and promotion), the ladies did clinch the cup double… again! So, Emily had no second thoughts of going again this season…
“Yes, it was a bit of a no-brainer to be honest Chris. The girls and management are like family, and no other team gives off that same vibe. After completing two out of three competitions last season, it only felt right to stay and try to win that league this year. That’s the main ambition for this season, together with another good cup run.”
She continues, “We have had a few extra players arrive this year, who have all been brilliant. They’ve helped us to up our levels, and have gelled into our little family unit. They’ve helped to strengthen us in all areas, so there’s a lot to look forward to this season.”
In terms of stepping up her levels this year, Emily is fortunate to have an employer who is very flexible…
“Yes, my work life is really flexible and doesn’t get in the way of me keeping myself fit. We only train once a week, so I try to go to the gym during the week. Failing that, I just get out for a walk to keep myself moving.”
When she’s not working, training, or playing football, Emily likes to spend time with her family. Something that is an important part of her life.
“I’m a massive family person Chris. I love spending time with my other half and family. My little niece is a little comedian, who cracks us all up! She comes to some of our games and was recently shouting ‘football’s coming home’ at one of them… HaHaHaHa!”
Speaking of football coming home, let’s take a trip back down memory lane and continue to learn more about this right-footed attacker. Her journey began at Charlton Athletic, where she went to the Addicks’ Centre of Excellence…
“That actually almost put me off playing football Chris! I was really young and had a bad coach, who made me not enjoy it. Thankfully my Mum kept me playing, but at a local team where it was a lot more enjoyable.”
So from Charlton, Emily moved to Swanscombe Tigers and then Parkwood Rangers, before arriving at Dartford. Did she ever aspire to play at a professional level?
“I did, yes. But back then that wasn’t really an option for girls sadly. There weren’t many teams that were full-time who paid female players. It’s only really been more recently that that option has become available for young girls growing up today. If I was young now, I’d definitely be looking to go pro… 100%! It’s a bit late now with my old legs… HaHaHaHa!”
She continues, “But, despite the dream to play full-time football, I wouldn’t change my journey for anything. It has gotten me to where I am today, and I have met some amazing people because of football. I have always enjoyed my football and that’s the most important thing for me.”
What about her future?
“I don’t really think of the future to be honest. The main thing for me is short-term goals, which will lead to/build on the bigger things.”
And, the bigger thing at the moment is the football club and its success. Something that the entire Dartford FC Women team do a lot of work towards, both off and on the pitch. As Emily’s deserved holiday looms, I’ll let her say a few words to the Dartford supporters…
“Thank you all for coming to support us. We really do appreciate you coming, and you really help us in those big games. Last year showed how successful we can be with your support, so please come to as many games as you can… especially the home ones! Get in contact and we can get any of your little ones involved too!”
SECTION TWO
Faith or Superstition?
Superstition.
Favourite Food?
All food! Thai if I had to pick.
Favourite Drink?
Anyone that knows me well will know this… BEER! HaHaHaHa!!
TV Series or Film?
TV Series.
Music or Podcast?
Music.
Sporting Hero?
Thierry Henry.
Non-Sporting Hero?
Mum.
Do you follow any other sports besides football?
Nope, football through and through!
Biggest influence in the dressing room?
The management. The team talk gets us geared up and focused for the game.
What football players, past or present, would make up your dream five-a-side team?
If I was included as one, then it would be…
Mary Earps (PSG)
Lucy Bronze (Barcelona)
Phil Foden (Manchester City)
Thierry Henry (ex-Arsenal)
By Chris Palmer