CLASS OF 2024-25 | MEET SAMUEL OKOYE

Last weekend saw Dartford host Whitehawk at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park. Samuel Okoye featured in our matchday programme that afternoon. For those who missed it, here is the full article:

SECTION ONE

Samuel Okoye was signed by Ady Pennock in the summer, after the Dartford boss was impressed by his performances during pre-season. And, the (just turned) 23-year-old has made the right wing-back position his own, having made 25 appearances in all competitions so far (at the time of writing).

Having arrived at Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park following stints with Hitchin Town, King’s Langley, and Hastings United, Samuel offers a combination of hard work, strength, awareness, daring runs, and a dangerous cross when required. Abilities which have made him an important part of the Dartford defensive unit, as well as the team’s attacking arsenal.

After being deservedly rested for the recent trip to Canvey Island, Samuel is in good spirits at the time of our discussion over WhatsApp, despite a technical glitch on my end meaning that he had to rush through his responses during the festival period…

“I’m good thanks Chris. I’m feeling blessed, so I can’t complain.”

He continues, “It feels really good to be playing for such a big club like Dartford, especially with our current form. The support from the fans has also been immense, so I take pride in the ability to put the shirt on.”

He has every right to feel proud, as should everyone involved with the club because (at the time of writing), Ady Pennock’s side has been unbeaten in the Isthmian Premier League since losing out to Wingate & Finchley back in October. That’s an incredible run of thirteen games without defeat… a fantastic achievement considering the circumstances which saw Ady and his coaching staff having to rebuild the squad from scratch.

As Samuel was one of those new signings, what actually made him join the new Darts?

“I spoke to Ady over the phone and, from the first conversation, I knew that I wanted to be here. The plan was and has always been promotion Chris. Also, I knew a few of the boys before coming to Dartford, and they all told me what Ady was like, which added even more to me being here.”

As has been mentioned before, Samuel’s arrival was preceded by first-team spells with Hitchin Town, King’s Langley, and Hastings United. Yet, his journey actually began with the Arsenal Academy…

“Yeah, that’s right. I started there from the U12s, but I got released at U16 level. It was a massive learning experience Chris. It taught me discipline, work ethic, and the fundamentals of the game at a high level. Even after getting released, those lessons stuck with me and helped me when I later signed for Stevenage Borough.”

Did he aspire to become a professional player?

“Of course. Playing professionally is a dream for any young footballer. And, I still work hard and stay focused on improving my game. However, I’m also keeping my options open and making sure that I’ve got a solid foundation outside of the game.”

As has been written about his teammates and peers at this level of the sport, Samuel is a part-time player, so has a life outside of football. But, how does he keep on top of his fitness and general wellbeing?

“Outside of football, I like to stay active with the gym, and I like to spend time with family and friends. I’m into cars too, and I like exploring new places and just enjoying life when I can.

“I try to plan ahead and stay consistent, which isn’t always easy. But it helps me to fit my workouts and recovery sessions around my schedule. I keep on top of my fitness and wellbeing by staying consistent with workouts, as well as eating clean foods a lot of the time. I like to prepare meals when I can, drink loads of water, and also try to get enough sleep. It’s not perfect, but it has been doing me good. The biggest thing that’s changed a lot for me recently is sleep. I need my eight hours!”

Is he happy with how his journey has panned out so far?

“I’d say that I’m grateful for the journey so far Chris. I’ve met and played with a lot of people who I’ve learned from, created memories with, and experienced this sport with. If I could change anything, I would have focused more on consistency and discipline earlier on. But every experience has shaped who I am today, so I can’t complain.”

And, what about the future? What are his plans?

“For the future, I’m focused on improving my game and seeing how far I can go in football, while keeping my options open outside of the sport.”

A very wise and grounded man indeed. And, that’s Samuel Okoye in a nutshell. Focused on improving his game and keeping his options open, while doing everything he can to help Dartford achieve promotion back to the National League South.

As our conversation draws to a close, I’ll let him say a few words to the Dartford faithful…

“To all the Dartford fans, I just want to say thank you for your support. It really makes a difference both on and off the pitch. We’ll keep working hard to make you proud, and your backing means everything to us. Stick with us, and let’s keep pushing together!”

SECTION TWO
Faith or Superstition?
Christian Faith.

Favourite Food?
Recently it’s been Curry, Goat Rice, Peas Plantain, and Coleslaw.

Favourite Drink?
Water.

TV Series or Film?
TV Series.

Music or Podcast?
Depends, but music.

Sporting Hero?
Muhammad Ali.

Non-Sporting Hero?
My Dad.

Do you follow any other sports besides football?
American Football, UFC.

Biggest influence in the dressing room?
I’m not sure to be honest.

What football players, past or present, would make up your dream five-a-side team?
Paolo Maldini (ex-AC Milan)
Zinedine Zidane (ex-Real Madrid)
Ronaldinho (ex-Barcelona)
Lionel Messi (Inter Miami)
Ronaldo (R9) (ex-Inter Milan)
The plan is to just score more goals, I don’t need a goalkeeper!

By Chris Palmer

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