CLASS OF 2024-25 | MEET ASHDON DAY
Young striker, Ashdon Day, is one of seven Dartford Academy Graduates to be promoted into the First Team by Adrian Pennock this season. And the 18-year-old should be well known to Darts’ fans by now, having been a regular during this pre-season as well as last pre-season.
In fact, Ashdon was initially promoted into the First Team by former boss Alan Dowson last term. But only two appearances were forthcoming for the striker (one start) during a difficult campaign for everyone involved.
However this season has a completely different feeling about it, as Ady continues to build a squad fit to challenge for a return to the second tier of the Non-League Pyramid. And, the Dartford boss has been mightily impressed by the Academy players he’s used during pre-season, including Ashdon.
The left-footed striker intends to cement his place in the Dartford front-line. He intends to score goals, win headers, and be a strong target man for his teammates.
Despite his young age, Ashdon has represented a collection of local clubs at youth level since the age of six. These include Gravesham District and Gravesham Town FC, Istead Colts FC, Cuxton 91 FC, Lordswood FC, Welling FC, and of course Dartford and the Dartford Academy.
And Ashdon has a very strong connection to the Dartford Academy, which has produced some genuinely talented youngsters recently…
“The club as a whole has been a big part of my childhood Chris. From playing Sunday League Football to being in the Academy for the last two years. My time in the Academy has been really enjoyable, as well as productive. Hard work and dedication is the key to becoming successful within the Academy, but having amazing, experienced coaches and staff that push and motivate you is a massive bonus. The Academy offers great facilities and a good player-to-coach ratio, meaning better progression within each player. I’m extremely grateful and thankful for the Academy.”
How does Ashdon feel about being promoted to the Dartford First Team for this season?
“It’s an honour to have signed for the First Team Chris. I’m over the moon to have been given an opportunity as big as this. It shows that all the hard work I’ve put in is paying off.”
He continues, “I was called into the gaffer’s office recently, where he told me that he’d been watching my performances within the Academy, and that he was impressed with my abilities. He feels that I’ve got something to offer the First Team this season. And, he still expects me to offer full dedication, hard work, and discipline. I fully intend to give 110% within the team to get Dartford back to the level that we all know we deserve to be at!”
Having made his intentions quite clear, Dartford’s new number fifteen saves his last words for the Dartford faithful…
“A big part of any club’s success is its support from its fans. We (the players) know that every one of you are passionate about this club, as are we as a team! I hope that I do you proud this season, and I look forward to having your support! Up The Darts!!”
By Chris Palmer
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