AFC Bournemouth
Emma Davis is not only the longest serving player at AFC Bournemouth Women, she also made the highest number of appearances for Steve Cuss' side across the 2021/22 season with 24.
The Cherries finished their maiden season in the National League in second place, losing just one league game throughout the campaign.
Additionally, the side reached the second round proper of the Women's FA Cup for the first time in history and were runners up to Portsmouth in the Hampshire Senior Cup.
As the season came to a close, afcb.co.uk caught up with left-back Davis, who has enjoyed the challenges that have come with her seventh season in red and black.
afcb.co.uk: How have you found the season?
ED: Personally, I've found it a really good challenge and have really enjoyed the step up to the National League. It's been much more competitive with the quality of teams that are in the league, which has been a great experience for me to build and learn from as a player.
afcb.co.uk: You've made the most appearances out of everyone, does this make you feel a sense of pride?
ED: I do feel a sense of pride and achievement having played the most games. I'm really pleased with my commitment levels and it just highlights that what I put in has its rewards. I'm so glad that I've been able to make that many appearances for the club and with this group of players.
afcb.co.uk: How do you think the squad has adapted to the National League?
ED: It's been a big step up in terms of quality and ability. I feel like we have adapted well to these standards through analysis of different teams, purely focusing on one match at a time, tailored training sessions and being guided by Steve Cuss and Matt Divine on tactics and formations for the upcoming game.
afcb.co.uk: You've been at the club longer than anyone, how pleased are you to see it competing at such a high level?
ED: It's really pleasing to see, in my seven years at the club, how far we have come and hopefully we can continue to rise. When comparing it to where we were at the start, it's amazing to see the differences, for example now we have good facilities, good coaching, the same kit and the media representation. I think it's also important to note the previous players, coaches and staff that have contributed to AFC Bournemouth Women being where they are today. Hopefully we can just keep going with the quality of talent that we have in the squad now.
afcb.co.uk: How impressed have you been with the youngsters?
ED: The 16 and 17 year olds have been pivotal to the season with their energy levels and desire to play. They haven't shied away from intimidating opposition and they've worked really hard to get spots in the starting line up. I think that they should be really proud of themselves for the season they've had and I'm sure they've all got bright futures ahead of them at Bournemouth.
afcb.co.uk: You're in double figures for clean sheets, that must really please you as a defender?
ED: Yeah! Clean sheets are really important as a defender. Strikers pride themselves on goals and this is similar for defenders with clean sheets. It's important for goal difference, but I think it also showcases a strong defensive performance, so for us to be in double figures this season is really pleasing.
afcb.co.uk: What was it like making history and playing in the side's first ever league game at Vitality Stadium?
ED: The stadium game was a phenomenal experience and the atmosphere was incredible with just under 1,600 in attendance. It was competitive as a league game and pleasing to get the win while making history at the same time. Hopefully this has raised the profile of AFC Bournemouth Women and we can continue to build on our fanbase for the upcoming season. Personally, I would also say the stadium game was a really proud moment for me and my family just to see how far I've come in football and the levels I've reached.
