NCFA So Kate, how long have you been with Norfolk FA?
KD I joined on 19 December 2001 – I remember it very well as I arrived, met everyone, and then we all went out for Christmas lunch which I thought was a great start to a new job!
NCFA What do you enjoy most about your job?
KD It’s going to sound really cheesy but it’s got to be the people, both those that work at NCFA and those outside our organisation. We’re lucky that we have a really good team at the County HQ and now at the FDC and we all get on very well and have a lot of laughs! The people that I deal with outside the office are all generally talking about something they love – football, so I don’t get too many grumpy people!
NCFA Do you have a favourite NCFA related memory?
KD I think is has to be Soccer on the Sands - I have worked at every one and they are great fun. I love it when the teams all make a real effort and come with their hair coloured or their faces painted. Even the year we had torrential rain the kids still enjoyed themselves and it was a success (I was in the tent anyway!).
NCFA Do you follow a football team?
KD Yes, Arsenal - with a fondness for Norwich as well.
NCFA After being around the game for such a while, I imagine you've had some great experiences. Any memories stand out in particular?
KD I have impressed myself as I actually have 2 ‘best ever’ memories …
Several years ago Arsenal came to Carrow Road for a friendly against Norwich. My all-time hero David Seaman (pre-pony tail) came over to where I was standing before the game and signed my programme – he smelt lovely. Ian Wright scored a hat-trick and ran past the Arsenal supporters grabbing the badge on his shirt and shouting ‘I love this club!’ – it was a great moment!
My second ‘best ever’ memory is seeing Arsenal win the FA Cup at Cardiff in 2005. I was sitting quite near the front and Arsenal had all their celebrations right in front of me. It was 0-0 draw and Arsenal beat Man U on penalties (again I have impressed myself with all these details!)
NCFA Ok, the question everyone is asking at present - who's going to win this summer's World Cup?
KD Well I hope England will win of course! My tip to Fabio would be to bring back Tony Adams.
NCFA Do you have any hobbies outside of work & football?
KD I like to eat, drink and be merry!
NCFA OK, last question - if you were in a football team, what position would you play in?
KD That is the funniest question anyone has ever asked me! For the sake of the other imaginary players, I think I’d better be on the bench.