Darts Practice Update: A New Grip and a Fresh Plan

 Over the past week, I’ve kicked off a new 4-week practice plan aimed at raising my average and sharpening my accuracy around the 20 segment. It’s all about focus and structure and no more aimless throwing. Every dart now has a purpose.

Interestingly, this plan coincided with a big change in my technique. I’ve always held the dart further back along the barrel, but recently, I found myself gripping closer to the front. It wasn’t intentional,it just felt natural during practice. The results were promising, so I decided to stick with it.

Of course, the real challenge will be resisting the temptation to revert to my old grip during matches. Habits are hard to break, especially under pressure. But I believe this adjustment will pay off in the long run.

So far, practice has gone well. I feel more focused and less wasteful with my darts. That said, it’s not all smooth sailing and I still overthink at times, and when that happens, my darts can go wild. But as far as the throw itself is concerned, I can already see improvement.

Tonight will be the first real test: the Wednesday Under Average Tournament. I’m committed to using the new grip, even if it means I don’t play my absolute best while adapting. Short-term pain for long-term gain,so that’s the mindset.

I’ll report back after the tournament. For now, I’m excited to see how this new approach holds up under match conditions.

The Rapid Growth of African Darts – A Continent on the Rise

 Back in 2011, Devon Petersen became the first African player to compete at the PDC World Darts Championship, a milestone that opened the sport’s eyes to an entire continent of untapped potential. His arrival on the world stage didn’t just mark a historic moment, it proved that Africa could produce players capable of mixing it with the very best.

Petersen went on to become a top-class professional, winning global titles and climbing firmly into the world’s elite. His popularity, charisma, and visibility helped put African darts on the map, inspiring players across South Africa and beyond.

But after that first breakthrough, progress was slower than many hoped. While African representation grew, it didn’t explode in the early years. Players such as Charl Pietersen and Cameron Carolissen qualified for Ally Pally and performed admirably, but it still felt like the continent was waiting for its next surge.

That surge may now be happening.

The African Series – A Game-Changer?

In the last two to three years, darts across Africa has begun accelerating dramatically. One of the biggest drivers has been the creation of the PDC-affiliated African Series: six regional leagues across the continent, giving players consistent competition, structure, and a genuine pathway to the top.

This has allowed emerging players from nations like:

• Botswana

• Tanzania

• Kenya

• Uganda

• Zimbabwe

• South Africa

to compete regularly, improve rapidly, and gain recognition far beyond their local scenes.

Spotlight from the Modus Super Series

The impact is already being seen overseas. The Modus Super Series, one of the most competitive weekly darts events in the world, has begun featuring players from across Africa ,including competitors from Botswana, South Africa, and Kenya.

These opportunities are priceless. They provide:

• Stage experience

• Broadcast pressure

• Professional-level opposition

• Exposure to international audiences

And with each appearance, African darts builds more momentum.

Kenya Breaks Through – David Munyua’s Debut

This year, David Munyua becomes the first Kenyan to qualify for the PDC World Darts Championship, marking yet another significant moment for the continent.

His qualification signals something bigger than one player:
- another African nation taking darts seriously.
- another country investing in its talent.
- another pool of players now believing they can reach the top.

The more African nations that make this leap, the stronger the entire continent becomes.

What Happens Next?

South Africa still has the largest player base, but the gap is closing fast. Countries like Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda are now producing strong, competitive players  and it feels like only a matter of time before multiple African nations regularly appear at Ally Pally.

2026 could be the real turning point.

As the African Series expands, and more players earn Modus invitations or qualify for international majors, fans worldwide are going to start recognising these names the same way we now recognise emerging stars from Asia and North America.

African darts is no longer a dream or a novelty.
It’s here  and it’s growing fast.

Future Stars of Darts: 9 Young Players Set to Shine

 With Gian van Veen retaining the World Youth Championship and the JDC holding it's World Championship currently,  it’s a great time to reflect on how important this tournament has become for shaping future stars. 

Since its current format began in 2011, winners like Michael Smith, Dimitri Van den Bergh, Josh Rock, Gian van Veen, and Luke Littler have all gone on to claim major TV titles and some big names have made finals including Nathan Aspinall and Michael van Gerwen This platform being used as a springboard to success.

Clearly, the youth system,alongside the Junior Darts Corporation (JDC) and Development Tour and provides a solid grounding for players aiming for the top. So, who might we be talking about in the next few years? Here are nine names to watch:

Archie Self (England)

Currently the JDC World No.1, Archie has dominated the Advanced Tour with multiple titles and finals appearances. He also won the WDF Boys’ World Championship and reached the senior England Open semi-finals at just 15. His scoring power and composure under pressure make him a standout prospect.

Jack Nankervis (England)

Jack burst onto the scene by winning six Foundation Tour events at age 12 and three Advanced Tour titles at 13. He’s already challenged Luke Littler in the MVG Masters final and posted a 101 average in the Winmau Junior Open. Expect him to be a Development Tour force very soon.

Tergel Khurelkhuu (Mongolia)

A trailblazer for Asian darts, Tergel topped the JDC Advanced Tour rankings and has produced mid-90 averages on big stages. His rapid rise and fearless approach suggest he could become a global ambassador for the sport.

Lex Paeshuyse (Belgium)

Lex made history as the youngest JDC World Champion at 13, averaging over 90 in the final. Belgium has produced stars like Dimitri Van den Bergh, and Lex looks ready to follow in those footsteps.

Owen Bryceland (Scotland)

At just 10 years old, Owen won the JDC Scotland Masters and is already drawing comparisons to Luke Littler. His natural talent and early success make him one to watch for the long term.

Jack Johnson (England)

Jack claimed the JDC Super 16 title in 2025, defeating Jayden Walker in a high-quality final. His ability to handle pressure and produce big finishes is impressive for his age.

Jayden Walker (England)

Runner-up in the Super 16, Jayden hit a 101 average and a 14-darter during the event. His scoring power and temperament suggest he’ll be a regular name on youth leaderboards.

Colton Dunn (CAN)

North America’s brightest youth talent, Colton topped the CDC Junior Evolution Tour and earned a spot at the JDC World Cup. His progress could help ignite darts in the U.S. market.

Rebecca Allen (England)

Female talent is also emerging strongly, and Rebecca Allen is leading the charge. She’s been making waves in JDC events and is tipped as a future star who could inspire more women and girls to take up the sport.

Thursday Night Darts – Small Steps Forward, but Forward All the Same

 Last night was the Thursday Night Open at Browns Bar.As always a tough mix of standards, and last night was no different. I didn’t make it out of the group stage, but strangely enough, I probably played my best overall darts for a while.

Two of my matches were in the 60+ average range, which is something I haven’t done in a while. That tells me the work I’ve been doing, especially sorting my mindset, is starting to kick in. I didn’t pressure myself, didn’t overthink, and just let the arm go. It felt smoother, calmer, and much more like me.

Yes, I still had double trouble in a couple of games (don’t we all), but if you take the finishing out of it, the scoring was actually really solid. And right now, that’s what I’m taking as the positive: I’m trending upwards.

With the new four-week plan now in place, plus the upcoming 10,000 darts challenge, I’m genuinely hopeful that I can finish the year strongly. Lots to build on — the foundations are starting to look good again.

Stats:
• Group average: 49.16
• First 9: 57.67
• 100+ scores: 11
• 60+ averages: 2
• Legs won: 4

The 10,000 Darts Challenge — My New 4-Week Training Plan

 

Every now and then, you hit a point in darts where you know something has to change. For me, this is that moment. My scoring has been improving, my mindset is steadier, and my new darts feel better — but now it’s time to build proper, structured, repeatable practice.

And that’s where the 10,000 Darts Challenge comes in.

Inspired by the idea that mastery comes from repetition and good habits, the goal is simple:

Throw 10,000 purposeful darts in one month.

Not random chucking. Not mindless 501s.
Proper, targeted, disciplined practice.

At 300–350 darts per day, it’s absolutely doable. It might be a game-changer.

Why 10,000?

Because repetition builds:

• Muscle memory

• Consistency

• Confidence on the oche

• A smoother, repeatable throw

Matthew Syed famously talks about the '10,000 hour rule', but in darts we can simplify that into volume + focus = improvement.

If you throw 10,000 darts at the right targets, the right habits lock in quickly.

My 4-Week Training Plan (Feel free to follow along)

This is the exact structure I’ll be following — and anyone reading is welcome to join me and see if it improves your own game.

🔵 Week 1 — Foundation & Accuracy

Goal: clean up grouping + sharpen the big trebles.

Daily routine (approx 300 darts per day):

• 100 darts at T20

• 60 darts at T19

• 40 darts at 25/Bull

• 3 rounds of Bob’s 27

• 30 darts at chosen double

• 60 darts on my Darts Challenge game (levels 1–5)

Focus: smooth release, same tempo, no rushing.

🔵 Week 2 — Scoring Power

Goal: build consistency on T20/T19 combinations.

Daily routine:

• 120 darts at T20

• 60 darts at T19

• 40 darts at switching drills (T20 → T19 → T18)

• 3 rounds of JDC Routine (60/60/60)

• 40 darts at clinical set-up shots (like 62, 72, 82)

• Finish with Russ Bray app vs Bot

Focus: steady rhythm + straight barrel entry.

🔵 Week 3 — Doubles & Finishing

Goal: finally turn scoring into winning legs.

Daily routine:

• 60 darts at D16

• 60 darts at D20

• 30 darts at D10

• Around the board doubles (one hit per number)

• 2 rounds of Double Trouble

• 40 darts on finishing combinations (2-dart and 3-dart)

• 40 darts on the Bulls practice game

Focus: calm throw, same routine each time.

🔵 Week 4 — Match Simulation

Goal: bring everything together under pressure.

Daily routine:

• 2–3 matchplay sets vs Bot

• 1 set of the Darts Challenge (levels 5–8)

• 100 darts at T20 (maintain scoring)

• 50 darts at your weakest double

• One “intense leg” drill (you must finish under 21 darts)

Focus: mindset, recovery from bad darts, controlling tempo.

Tracking the 10,000 Darts

I’ll be logging:

• daily totals

• highest scores

• best doubles day

• average over 7-day periods

• match results

• feeling + confidence changes

And I’ll post weekly updates on the blog so people doing the challenge alongside me can compare progress.

Could This Actually Work?

Honestly? It might not make me a Pro overnight, but may get me more confident, straighter and better prepared for matches. 

Since switching darts and sharpening my practice structure, my scoring has been noticeably tighter. I feel calmer on the oche, and my doubles will come with repetition.

10,000 darts is a commitment — but the idea is simple:

If you want a different result, you need different habits.

This is my attempt to build those habits, create momentum, and push toward a proper 60+ average.

If anyone wants to join me, feel free.
Let’s see who improves the most in the next 4 weeks.

Darts Gear and Gift Guide: Three Brilliant Picks for Players of All Levels

 

I’ve been looking at some darts gear recently. Part curiosity, part early gift-hunting, and part seeing what might be worth recommending as useful kit for players wanting to upgrade. Here are three items that really stood out. Each one offers something a little different.

1. Trinidad Pro Steel-Tip 90% Tungsten Darts (18g) De Sousa

These Trinidad De Sousa darts instantly caught my eye. They’re made from 90% tungsten, giving the slim profile and durability you’d expect from a higher-end dart, but without the intimidating price tag of some premium models. What stands out most is the barrel design: the machined grooves offer a confident, textured feel without being overly aggressive. It’s the type of grip that suits just about any style- front grip, mid-grip, even players who sit slightly further back on the barrel. The balance is excellent too, giving a smooth, controlled release. They are a little light at 18g, but they fly really well and easy to get used to..

2. Star Wars R2-D2 K-Flex No.2 Flight System

As someone who loves the K-Flex system anyway, these R2-D2 flights from Target really stood out. They combine the stability of a one-piece flight and shaft with the fun of the Star Wars theme which are perfect if you enjoy a bit of personality in your setup. The polymer frame absorbs impact well when you’re grouping tight, helping keep your darts flying true without the usual flight pop-outs. The R2-D2 design is subtle but brilliant, and at under £20 they’re a genuinely cool upgrade without spending too much. Target’s Star Wars range is huge (darts, flights, accessories.More on that in a later post), but these were the ones that really grabbed my attention.

3. One80 Darts Advent Calendar

If you’re after a darts gift that feels fresh and a bit different, the One80 Advent Calendar is ideal. Instead of chocolate, you get 24 days of darts accessories and small surprises. A brilliant way to build some excitement in the lead-up to Christmas or the World Championship. It’s perfect for players who like trying out new flights, stems and small bits of gear, and usually the total value of the items inside ends up being more than the cost of the calendar itself. It works for every type of player too: beginners, casual throwers, or regular league players who enjoy experimenting with new kit. A fun, affordable gift that always gets people talking.

Whether you’re upgrading your own gear or looking for something for a darts-mad friend, these three items are great picks.

Wednesday Night Under 55 Average Tournament – Browns Bar, Bristol

 Last night (Wednesday) I played in the Under 55 Average Comp at Browns Bar, Bristol. It was a bit up and down overall, but I’m happy with my scoring. The big takeaway? My head was in a much better place than it’s been for the past few weeks.No overthinking, just enjoying the game.

I definitely need to practice my doubles more, but mentally I felt solid. Lost focus a little in the Last 16, but I’m fine with that. Tonight is an open tournament, so the goal is to keep this upturn in form and mindset going.

Stats from Wednesday

Result: Last 16

Match Average: 45.74

First 9 Average: 53.79

100+ scores: 7

Legs Won: 7

Legs Lost: 6

Breaks: 4

Reflection

Scoring was decent, but finishing let me down. Still, the mental side felt strong, which is a big win for me right now.