Gary Lobb
Dartmouth at Play! Gary Lobb – Chairman of Dartmouth Football Club
What night do you train?
Tuesday night.
How many members do you have?
200, but they aren't all players! A lot join to support us and socialise at the clubhouse.
How much to join?
£13 for the year - a bargain!
How long have you been part of the club?
Too long! I joined as an eager 13-year-old in 1973 and made my way up the ranks.
Are you after new players?
We are always after new players. You don't have to have much experience just come along and see how we work.
Do you have a youth side?
Yes - our Under 15s practice every Monday night. We have a good team who play in the South Devon Pioneer Youth League.
How are your youth numbers?
Well they have definitely decreased in the time I have been with the club. When I joined children couldn't wait to sign up. Now it seems children would rather be playing sport on the computer than actually doing it for real - it's very sad. When a young person joins their dad often gets involved in the club in some way which means if we lose the youngsters we don't get their families either.
Will it have an affect on the club?
Well, I hate to say it but, if fresh faces don't start appearing the club may not be here in a few years. The people who currently keep it running are either approaching or over 60. We need the next generation to play, support, and help run the club. I'm pleased that we have managed to survive despite a dwindling membership and the rising number of second homes. Dartmouth still has a strong sense of community - we just need more people to be interested in football!
What are the highs and lows of being in charge?
I love travelling to and from games. The banter is great - especially if we win. I can't say I enjoy washing the team kit on a Sunday night - it can be a bit smelly!
What's new for 2017?
We are investing in some modern changing rooms. They have definitely seen better days and don't comply with current health and safety regulations. We have a photo of them from the 1900s so we know they’ve been there awhile!
Do people come to the clubhouse just to have a drink?
Oh yes, members can come up most nights. We sometimes put on entertainment, which goes down well. We try and keep drinks at a sensible price so you don’t have to pay over £3.50 for a pint of beer up here!
How would you sell football to someone?
It's a great team bonding game. There is a real sense of camaraderie whether you win or lose and it definitely keeps you fit.
Where can we find you when you aren't at the club here on Townstal Road?
I work as a supervisor at RGC.
Do you find yourself thinking about the game a lot?
Yes, if I'm not thinking about which of our guys is playing where and when then I'm usually watching the game on TV. I'm an Arsenal supporter.
How would you describe yourself?
I don't know really, but my colleagues have chipped in to say ‘committed and dedicated’ so I will go with that!
What do you tell your players to bring to practice?
Their boots and a smile!
First published By The Dart magazine May 2017