Welcome to Through the Turnstile, this series of features are intended to shine the light on some of non-leagues leading stars. This time we are venturing through the turnstile looking at Dartford FC.

A brief history of the Club

Dartford Football Club, formed in 1888 by members of the Dartford Workingmen’s Club, began with friendly fixtures and sporadic cup appearances. In 1894, the club became a founding member of the Kent League and made its FA Cup debut in 1895. Dartford quickly ascended, winning the Southern League Division Two in 1896, but financial issues soon led them to the West Kent League. The club’s fortunes revived with a West Kent League and Cup double in 1908-09, prompting a return to the Kent League, where they remained until World War I.

Post-war, Dartford was restructured into a public limited liability company, a rarity in English football until Tottenham Hotspur followed suit decades later. They found a new home at Watling Street, where they played until 1992. In the 1920s, Dartford oscillated between leagues, eventually settling in the Southern League in 1926. Under manager Bill Collier in the 1930s, Dartford achieved significant success, including multiple Kent Senior Cup victories and back-to-back Southern League Eastern Section titles.

World War II halted much of Dartford’s progress. The post-war years saw sporadic successes, including a notable Kent Senior Cup win in 1947. The club enjoyed stability in the Southern League from the late 1950s under managers George Green, Alf Ackerman, and Ernie Morgan, maintaining a respectable presence.

In the 1970s, under Doug Holden and later Ernie Morgan, Dartford won the Southern League Championship in 1973-74 and reached the FA Trophy final at Wembley. The 1980s brought further achievements with managers John Still and Peter Taylor, who guided Dartford to the Alliance Premier League and multiple cup victories. However, financial woes culminated in the sale of Watling Street and the club’s temporary withdrawal from the Southern League in 1992.

Reformed by the Supporters’ Association, Dartford rejoined the Kent League, gradually climbing back through the football pyramid. Tony Burman, appointed manager in 1993, played a pivotal role in this resurgence. The club achieved promotion to the Southern League in 1996, but a fire at Erith & Belvedere in 1997 necessitated another ground share, this time with Purfleet.

The early 2000s saw Dartford consolidating in the Dr Martens League. A new era began with the construction of Princes Park, which opened in 2006. Dartford earned promotion to the Ryman Premier League in 2008 and after to the Conference South in 2010. By 2012, they reached the National League, enjoying a remarkable 2012-13 season with an eighth-place finish, the highest of any part-time club.

Financial difficulties and relegations followed, but Dartford remained resilient. After fluctuating between leagues, they re-established themselves in the National League South.

However last season saw them suffer a relegation and as a result they compete this year in the Isthmian Premier league for the first time in many years.

(Source: https://www.dartfordfc.com/history/)

Club legends (as told by Fan Michael Saunt)

As a relatively recent supporter, there will be several contenders for this of which I am too cough young to remember. Speaking from a Princes Park era standpoint, Tony Burman simply has to take top honours. I’ve only had the pleasure of seeing him turn out for Charlton Athletic on re-runs of The Big Match (I’m sure he’ll love me for saying that!), but word has it that he was a bit useful on the pitch as well as being a great manager. The squad he assembled to win three promotions in five seasons – guiding DFC to the Conference Premier and flirting with playoffs therein – was simply awesome. It put the club on the map in bolder colours and attracted some big names. Tony is a totally approachable, friendly and genuine chap, which would belie the ruthlessness of some of his teams. He still works extremely hard within the DFC framework and is an indisputable club legend.

Next up is Lee Noble. Lee played for Dartford for over ten years, treating us all to his brand of skill and aggression in midfield. The sort of player so often derided by the opposition for being small, then ramming their taunts right back down their throats by showcasing perfectly the notion that ‘if they are good enough, they are big enough’ (or something like that). I often thought about how Lee would’ve been the player I’d least like to have come up against in my playing days – quick, strong, insightful and well capable of scoring some belting goals. In fact, Nobes was responsible for scoring the only goal in DFC’s Conference South playoff final in 2012 against Welling United, and what an incredible goal it was too. He would go on to scare defences of teams which are now in the EFL, having started his journey with Dartford several divisions lower. I’d love us to have another player like Lee Noble, but they don’t come around too often!

Kit

2024/2025 Replica Kit – £42

The shirts can be purchased from the Club shop or online. The home and away shirts are priced at £42 each. When bought together they are £75 saving £9 on the full price.

https://dartfordfc.ktckts.com/merchandise/darmerhome/home-shirt

Stadium info

Bericote Powerhouse Princes Park (DA1 1RT)
Capacity – 4100 (645 💺)
Number of stands – 4 (one seated)
Grass Pitch

Entry Price

Matchday Tickets
£15 – Adult
£5 – Concessions 65+, 16-17, Students
Free- Youth (13-17)
Free – Junior (5-12) – Must be accompanied by an adult

Please note – ID may be required

Season ticket prices
Adults – £250
Concessions – £170
Youth & Junior – £0 (Junior must be accopanied by an adult)

Matchday Programme
£2.50

Stadium Shop

The stadium shop is quite the professional looking space with an abundance of items to choose from. You can grab everything from a replica shirt, a polo, a coat, scarf, mug, beanie hat and gloves.

And…if you look closely you will see Dartford branded club ties, now that is certainly one way to brighten up the office!

Itssssss pin badge corner…and as YES! Dartford have their very own pin badge available to be bought from the club shop or via the online shop and what a lovely little smart one it is too!

Price – £3.50

Drinks

Fourrrrrr – thats how many bars you have to choose from when you attend a game at Princes Park. (1 dedicated for season ticket holders only)

The numerous bars around the ground is a very welcome sight, mainly due to it being a not too familar sight in non-league football, whereby there is normally the main bar in the clubhouse and then maybe 1 other smaller bar area with a smaller selection of drinks on offer.

The fact there is also a specific bar just for season ticket holders in my opinion is a genius move from the club, knowing there is 3 other options allows them to offer an added incentive for their dedicated fan base whilst not alienating or annoying the casual/semi-regular fans who wish to attend and still drink!

Very smart looking bar areas too (and very happy punters!)

Food

Now moving on to the food options and I can confirm you will not be disappointed or go hungry!

There are options for all at Dartford, fancy something like a pie or soup? Why not head to The Darts Grill who will have you covered. How about something like a big juicy burger and chips, well then you can head on down to Grub n Go (located outside the stadium) ! Or maybe you just fancy something sweet, then you can head to the Sweet Spot who can supply you with all manners of sweets and chocolate bars/bags.

The vast choice as options available to you is very impressive and to be honest I am tempted to attend a game just to work my way round the various food outlets and options! I feel like i say that everytime on these features!

Now lets all take a look at how Dartfords Matchday offering stacks up against the other 11 teams we have already featured on the turnstile series!

Now as we can see Dartford stack up very well indeed, offering one of the cheapest burger and chips for the hungry punters amongst you, as well as a very competitive and value for money price on all 3 of the drink choices.

Considering Dartford were a National South team for many years prior to this season, I feel the overall prices for both the matchday tickets and the matchday refreshments are extremely good value. If it wasnt on your list for this season I think it should definitely be so now!

Top Current players (as told by fan Joanne Restall)

Olly Box, Sam Odaudu and George Whitefield

Olly Box – A great asset, quick, fearless and loyal. He came through the academy, proved his worth and knows how to find the back of the net. Great at passing and reads the game well.

Big Sam (Odaudu) – Even after an injury this guy is so reliable. Strong, fast and could be our next captain. Another academy recruit and works his socks off. Appreciate how he looks out for other players to and offers guidance.

George Whitefield – Watched him play in pre season last year and thought “he’s special”. It’s a shame we weren’t in longer cup runs to give him more time to shine. He didn’t quite make full squad last season but fully deserves it. Great control, good in the air, strong and doesn’t get phased which is fab at his young age.

Press Play!

If you fancy checking out Dartford on Youtube you will find a bunch of post-match interviews with Manager Ady Pennock and also some from Assistant manager Roland Edge. Unfortunately that is all that seems to be on there from 2024/2025 season so far with match highlights not currently featured on the channel for the new season.

Hopefully that will soon change as last season they did do full match highlights which i feel really is a something most teams should do, not only to offer current fans to watch back their favourite moments back but also to draw more people to the club with the hope they become fans and attend future games in person.

Views from the Staff

Q) What is the best thing about being involved with Dartford?
It was my local club for 15 years (still not far away now) and it was my first big project for my website design company that has lead on to lots of other projects.

Q) What is your biggest challenge in your role?
Communication. Getting all the information from the relevant departments and then getting it out to the fans. Still something we are working to improve on.

Q) How special is being involved on a day to day basis with the club to you?
Yeah it’s a pleasure to work for them.

Q) Best thing you have implemented since being in your role? (In your own opinion)
New website, programme and improved social media, although we are always working to improve each of them every season.

Q) Why should people come to Dartford next season?
We will be fighting to get back to the National South and Princes Park is one of the best stadiums in the division.

Q) Non league football is…
Where proper football is played.

Q) Mick, as the Chairman of the Supporters Association, you have a unique perspective on fan involvement. How does the Supporters Association contribute to the success and sustainability of Dartford FC, and what initiatives are you particularly proud of?
I am involved in both men’s and women’s games, throughout the season.
Note that the facilitator for Junior Darts Members / Mascots, is formally vetted through welfare, under the Disclosure and Barring Service (D.B.S).

Q) “Non-league football is often described as the ‘heart and soul’ of the sport. What do you think are the key elements that make non-league football, and specifically Dartford FC, so special to its supporters?”
I have been a DFCSA committee member, for 21 years now. As vice – chair after 7 years and as Chairman, in the last 7 years and counting.Unlike being at a top league club, here at Dartford.F.C, one always feels part of and near to the core of the club, at its heart. The non – league pulse is relentless, as far as the in or out of seasonal action and preparations are concerned.

Q) “As a long-time supporter and leader within the Supporters Association, what are some of your most memorable moments with Dartford FC? How do these moments capture the essence of non-league football?”
There have been sad and energy – sapping moments, like recently losing a board co – chairman (DFCSA chairman in the 80/90’s), men’s relegation itself. However, we dust ourselves down, plan and prepare for what lies ahead, trying to reinforce and indeed gain promotion to the next step, up the ladder of non – league football.

With that in mind, memorable moments include winning the play – off final in 2011/12 and up to the national league, finishing 8th in the first season, as top non – league part – timers, in the country and being applauded off the pitch Away, by the then defeated opponents, as were Luton Town.F.C but who eventually spent last season in the Premiership.

Other than having won County and Academy cups, the first delightful time, was the grand opening of the brand new Princes Park Community Stadium, on 11th November 2006. The Darts won 4-2 in front of a capacity crowd of 4,100. Probably close to the best in non – league football, at that level. Recently, our DFC women won both the Kent Senior and League Cups, finishing 2nd in their league.
Our Academy won their league.

Q) “What strategies does the Supporters Association employ to attract new fans to Dartford FC, and how do you ensure that the club remains an inclusive and welcoming environment for all supporters?”

DFCSA advertises for and manages the membership of supporters. Some of this are yearly, others have a five year span, which keeps an ongoing interest on club matters. Family and Junior members are available. This encourages involvement from a young age, to retirement. DFCSA members benefit from a 10% discount on DFC goods bought on line, or in the club shop. There is an annual Draw for two winners, amongst all members. A first choice for any All Ticket match, is guaranteed, as DFCSA members. There is also a chance to be part of the Annual General Meeting (AGM), when due, with an opportunity to getting to know other members and indeed, be part of the DFCSA committee, ultimately.

Some DFC non – members offer themselves as volunteers on match days, selling 50/50 tickets, Golden Goals and match programmes. Others just enjoying helping, be it to help tidy up the environment, keeping the place in bloom, or placing match and events posters, around town. It would also include helping our DFC women on match days. Hence, Dartford Football Club Supporters’ Association encourages inclusivity, diversity and is welcoming to all and sundry, from any background.

View from the fans

Q) What makes a Dartford Fc match special to you?
A special game isn’t necessarily a win. It’s seeing the squad connect and understand where each other are on the pitch so it all flows and good football is being played. Seeing the effort and hearing crowd appreciation is what’s special.

Q) What do you think about non league football?
Non league football is a fantastic introduction to the game. Its fun, safe, accessible and affordable. To be able to take my children to so many games in a season and travel every weekend with them is the most precious memories.

Q) Why should more people come to support Dartford?
People need to start coming to Princes Park to enjoy decent football at a beautiful stadium with affordable prices. A fantastic family/community feel where everyone is welcome.

Q) If you could sign one player for Dartford next season who would you sign?
I’m torn about how i feel about returning players but I’d love Dan Wilks or Billy Crook back at the club.

Q) What first attracted you to Dartford Fc?
Quite an easy one this. Dartford FC was rendered homeless in 1992 and led a nomadic existence until the completion of Princes Park in 2006. I relocated to Dartford just before ground was broken on site, so having always had an interest in grass roots football, getting involved was a no-brainer. I eagerly watched the ground’s construction progressing week-by-week, then quickly became a regular through the turnstiles once the new home was completed.

Q) What has kept you coming back every year?
There is an excellent sense of community within DFC. Many of those who keep the club running do so tirelessly with passion and pride. The chairman is just as approachable as the programme seller and every bit as much of a fan of the club. Princes Park can conjure a great matchday atmosphere – some amazing memories have been made in my time as a Dartford FC supporter – winning the Isthmian North, Isthmian Premier and Conference South playoff final within four years; beating Mansfield Town under the lights on live TV and doing the double over Luton Town in 2012/13.

Q) What is the best part of a matchday at Princes Park Stadium?
As a ‘sociable’ supporter (by that, I mean I enjoy a few beers), the best thing about non-league football by far is the liberty and integration that exists at this level. The freedom to watch from anywhere around the pitch (even the bar, in some cases!) is absolutely invaluable compared to the controlled rigidity of league football.

Q) How would you describe the match day experience differences between league football and non league football?
Having a laugh and a beer with kindred non-league fans is something which sets the semi-pro experience well apart from a day out at an elite ground. Over time, recognisable faces from other clubs crop up and looking out for the ‘Wealdstone Raider’; the ‘Terry Nutkins lookalike programme seller’, or the ‘Dulwich Hamlet papoose count’ become staples of the matchday experience!

Q) Why should someone give Dartford a go next season?
For these reasons, it’s definitely worth considering your local club. They are mostly all run to a slender budget – largely by volunteers – and do rely on gate money and food & drink sales to simply turn over. Dartford FC has a few nice quirks to set itself apart, from the eco-friendly Princes Park stadium described by Wayne Hemingway as “better than Wembley”, through to non-league’s biggest supporter – Woody – our 20ft tall terrace mascot, and the four bars in which to have a mingle.

Q) What drew you to become a Dartford FC fan?
So I was born and brought up in Dartford on the fleet estate (across the road from where the current ground is) but as a massive Gillingham fan and I followed them for 10 years home and away However when I turned 18 league 2 football was getting a little bit expensive and I wasn’t able to go as often, I always knew of dartford being a dartfordian and they had national league south football at £200 for an 18 year old for a season tickets it was double that at the time for Gillingham and I wasn’t able to go week in week out as I used to So I went to a game On a random Tuesday night, saw how much of a community club and how everyone makes the difference to make the club work and I fell in love with the club almost instantly and haven’t looked back through good and bad times

Q) The club has gone through a mini rebuild this summer due to the unfortunate relegation – are you happy with the players brought in so far?
I’m very happy with the players Ady has brought in so far, they are good players for the level and loooking forward to seeing how they gel together in the season ahead

Q) Is your hope/aim for the season to be an immediate bounce back?
For me personally after a few years of chopping and changing and the club being a bit of a revolving door players wise, a season of stability I personally believe that’s what we need, so I wouldn’t be too upset with a competitive season that doesn’t end in promotion , promotion would be a bonus.

Q) What, if any, are your concerns for the upcoming season. In what is going to be a very competitive and challenging league?
I am very much relishing this being a competitive league next season, it going to be a league that anyone will be able to beat anyone, it’s going to be a fantastic league, I think it will be the non league to watch this season, as the old saying goes you’ve got to beat the best to win it

Q) What is your favourite memory as a fan to date…?
The first year in the national league will always be my favourite memory, being the best part time team in the country, taking points off every ex league team in that league bar one if memory serves me correctly and an fa trophy semi final as well

Future plans as told by Operations Manager Jack Smedley

Q) “In your opinion, what makes the matchday experience at Dartford FC special for fans compared to higher league clubs? Can you share any initiatives you’ve introduced to enhance this experience?”

I think its just the supporters that get a more intimate matchday experience where they can see the players, hear what’s going on and possibly meet them in the bar afterwards. It’s that personal touch and that a player might know who you are. You are also in a family environment where you see the same supporters every week and they become friends. The staff become familiar and you get used to the facilities. We allow drinking on the terraces, various food stalls, half time entertainment.

Q) “Looking ahead, what are your main goals for Dartford FC in the next five years, both in terms of on-field performance and off-field operations? How do you plan to achieve these goals while maintaining the club’s unique identity?”

The plan is for at least one promotion, hopefully two for the men’s team and the ladies’ team to also get promoted. All whilst maintaining the identity of Dartford FC by bringing youth through the system and having the pathway. We also will keep the supporter engagement and that personal feel with them. Creating a real community that doesn’t just involve football but all different groups of people. We want to increase our average attendance year by year and hopefully the team’s performances will help with this, but we also want to create a matchday experience off the pitch that means people want to come along anyway as they enjoy the family atmosphere and services being offered.

We also want to improve our facilities in general and maybe build new areas within the stadium.

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So that brings us to the end yet another ‘Through the Turnstile’. Dartford strike me as a team that are very much setup for a much higher level than the one they will be playing in this upcoming season and perhaps even higher than the National South in which they were beforehand. The stadium and facilities they have at their disposal are all very good and with the plans from the club to enhance this offering further it will only get better.

Like any league in football it is the promotion which is the hardest job of them all, but everything off the pitch seems to be in order and the focus on the fans experience with sufficient places to eat, drink and buy merchandise is already there. Now it is over to Ady Pennock and his players to do the rest!

Special thanks to WB Photographic for the photos throughout.

Until next time!