The Pros and Cons of Playing on the WDF Darts Circuit

While watching the WDF World Championships, I felt that maybe the WDF would be another avenue into darts, when I get good enough! For many aspiring darts players, the WDF (World Darts Federation) circuit is the first real taste of competitive darts on a global stage. It offers an alternative pathway to the PDC and has become increasingly important since the return of the WDF World Championships at Lakeside. But what is life actually like on the WDF circuit? Here’s a balanced look at the advantages and the challenges that players face.

The Pros

One of the biggest benefits of the WDF system is accessibility. Events are spread across dozens of countries, and many of them are open entry, meaning players can sign up without needing a tour card. For players who are developing, or who can’t commit to the financial demands of the PDC’s Q-School and tour system, this creates a genuine route into high-level darts.

Another positive is affordability. While travel can add up, the entry fees themselves tend to be lower than PDC qualifiers or Challenge Tour events. Many tournaments offer solid prize money relative to the level, and for those living in Europe, it’s possible to build a competitive calendar without breaking the bank.

Importantly, the WDF circuit can act as a stepping stone. Plenty of players have used strong WDF seasons to launch themselves into PDC careers. It’s a place to build confidence, gain ranking points, and get used to tour-level pressure before making the jump.

The Cons

For all the positives, there are real challenges too. The financial strain is the biggest hurdle. The WDF calendar stretches across the world, and unless you have sponsorship, travel and accommodation can become a significant expense. Prize money is improving, but it still lags far behind the PDC. A deep run might cover your weekend, but very few players can rely on the WDF alone as a full-time income.

Another issue is inconsistency. Not all events are equal in organisation, venue quality, or professionalism. Some tournaments are run brilliantly, others can feel chaotic or outdated. For players coming from highly professional setups, the variation can be noticeable.

The ranking system, while more open, can be unforgiving for players outside Europe. Those based in the UK might have to travel frequently to keep pace with continental events. Those in smaller nations can find it even harder to climb the rankings without long-haul trips.

Exposure is another downside. Unlike the PDC, the WDF doesn’t have mainstream TV coverage for most events. Even Lakeside last year struggled for broadcast stability. This makes it difficult for players to gain sponsorship or build a following unless they already have a strong online presence.

Finally, the pathway can be slow. While the WDF is a great platform, progression isn’t guaranteed. A player might dominate locally but still struggle to break through because the step up to elite competitions requires consistent high-level performances under pressure.

Conclusion

Playing on the WDF darts circuit can be a rewarding and memorable experience. It offers open access, a strong community feel, and the chance to compete internationally without needing a PDC tour card. But it also demands commitment, money, and patience, and the limited exposure can make it harder to turn strong performances into sponsorship or a professional breakthrough.

For many players, the WDF serves exactly the purpose it was designed for - a proving ground. A place to test yourself, grow your game, and chase the dream of stepping onto a major stage. But like any pathway in sport, it comes with ups and downs. The key is knowing what you want from your darts career and choosing the route that fits your goals, lifestyle, and finances.

Week One of My Four-Week Darts Improvement Plan: What I Learned

 Week one of my four-week darts improvement plan has been a real eye-opener. I went into it with a clear routine, a plan to refine my grip, and a determination to finally break through some of the mental blocks that hold me back in competition. Day one and day two actually went really well. My grip felt different, more controlled, more deliberate and I genuinely thought I was starting to turn a corner.

But when it came to competition, everything changed. I completely overthought it. Instead of just throwing naturally, I was trying to force the exact technique from practice. My grip slipped back to the old way, my mind was busy, and every dart felt like a calculation rather than a throw. It was frustrating because I know I can play better, but sometimes the brain gets in the way more than the mechanics do.

After that, I tried to practice again a couple of times, hoping to get back into the flow, but nothing clicked. My arm felt tight, my head felt full, and there was just no rhythm. So I did something I don’t usually do, I left my darts alone for a couple of days. No practice, no routines, no thinking about grip. Just a reset.

When I picked them up again yesterday, I made a conscious effort not to care. I didn’t focus on grip, score, mechanics, or anything technical. I just threw. And instantly it felt better. With no internal commentary running, my arm moved freely and my throw felt natural again. It reminded me that sometimes the best thing you can do in darts is get out of your own way.

So the plan now is simple: I’m going to continue with my practice routine, but without overthinking it. No scorekeeping, no analysing every small detail, no trying to be perfect. Just throw and let the technique settle naturally. Fingers crossed I can carry this mindset into tournament play, because that’s always the real challenge. If I can keep the noise in my head quiet, I genuinely believe the results will follow.

Wednesday & Thursday Tournament Round-Up – A Strange Week on the Oche

 This week has been one of the strangest I’ve had in a while when it comes to tournament darts. On the practice board at home, things had actually been going pretty well. I’d started a new routine that seemed to be helping: smoother throw, tighter grouping, a bit more confidence. But as soon as I stepped into match mode… the mind took over.

Wednesday – Under 55 Average Tournament

This was a tough one mentally. From the very first leg I found myself overthinking everything — my grip, my release, my stance, even the rhythm of my breathing. All the usual noise in my head decided to crank itself up to maximum.

Somehow, I still made the quarter-finals, but if I’m honest that was more down to other people's mistakes than anything brilliant from me. Midway through the night I reverted back to my usual grip, which helped a little, but by that point I just wasn’t relaxed.

Even though the stats say:

Average: 38.02

First 9: 51.41

3 x 100+ scores

…my head just wasn’t in it. I was ready to go home long before the darts allowed me to.

Thursday – Open Tournament

Thursday was better .Not perfect, but better. The standard of the field was higher, as it usually is at the Open, but I felt a bit more settled compared to the night before. Still, the wandering mind was there again.

Despite that, I put up a respectable showing:

Average: 44.80

First 9: 45.30

1 x 100+ and 1 x 140+

4 legs won

There were moments where the throw did feel natural, but they were too few and far between. I’m realising more and more that my next big barrier isn’t technical , it’s mental. I genuinely believe I can throw to a half-decent standard, but the match environment keeps switching the brain into “overthink mode”.

Mind Games – My Real Opponent

Right now, the battle isn’t with opponents. It’s with myself. At home I can throw freely, instinctively, without analysing every millimetre of my grip. In matches, I need to find that same calm, that same simplicity.

So if there are any hypnotists reading this… I’m only half joking!

Another week ahead, another chance to reset. I know the technical side is improving; I just need the mind to follow.

WDF World Championship Preview – Six Men and Six Women to Watch

 The WDF World Championship begins tomorrow (28th November), and as always, it’s an event I really look forward to. While the PDC World Championship has the big names, the big crowds and the huge prize money, the WDF event still holds a special place in the sport. It carries the history, the roots, and the opportunity for amateur and semi-professional players to shine on a genuinely world stage.

Some people say the standard isn’t as high as the PDC, but I don’t think that’s always true. Yes, the very top PDC players regularly throw 100+ averages, but the WDF field is packed with talent: former PDC Tour Card holders, Challenge Tour winners, and leading WDF pros who have battled through tough qualifying events just to reach Lakeside. It deserves to be seen as its own World Championship, not simply compared to the PDC version.

With that in mind, here are six men and six women I think are worth keeping a close eye on this year. The fields are competitive, especially in the women’s tournament where the absence of Beau Greaves makes things feel wide open.

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Men’s WDF World Championship – Six to Watch

Jimmy van Schie
The number one seed and it’s fully deserved. He has been ultra-consistent all season, picking up titles and deep runs everywhere he’s played. His decision to focus mainly on the WDF tour has paid off and he will be very hard to beat.

Shane McGuirk
The reigning champion. Some fans saw his win as a surprise last year, but those who follow the sport closely know how good he is. Tough, steady, and mentally strong. He will not hand his title back without a serious fight.

Jenson Walker
A talented young player who has transitioned from the junior ranks into senior WDF events with ease. He represented England at youth level and even won the Boys’ World Championship. This season he has stepped up again and is capable of beating anyone in the draw.

David Pallett
One of the most consistent performers on the circuit. A former PDC player with experience and quality, he has picked up titles this year and has been close in others. He doesn’t give away many chances. A real danger man.

Jason Brandon
The leading hope from outside Europe. A 2024 semi-finalist and one of North America’s strongest players, he has built real momentum across both the WDF and US darts circuits. Could easily go deep again.

Mitchell Lawrie
One of the most exciting teenagers in world darts. Dominant at junior level and already winning senior events, he plays without fear and handles pressure remarkably well. Some are already comparing him to Luke Littler.He has a genuine shot at the title.

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Women’s WDF World Championship – Six to Watch

Lerena Rietbergen

The number one seed and a multiple title winner on the WDF circuit. She skipped the PDC Women’s Series to focus on WDF events, and it’s worked. With Beau Greaves absent, Rietbergen has a huge chance to claim this prestigious title.

Rhian O’Sullivan
The bookmakers’ favourite, and rightly so. She has been excellent on both the WDF tour and the PDC Women’s Series. When she’s on it, Rhian can match the very best in the women’s game. Experience and form make her a major contender.

Lorraine Hyde
Scotland’s captain and one of the most experienced players in the field. She has played strongly on both major women’s circuits this year and picked up some standout wins. A real threat with her track record.

Nicole Regnaud
Travelling from New Zealand and rarely in Europe, but her quality has never gone unnoticed. A previous Lakeside competitor who has performed well without quite getting the results she deserved. A dangerous player if she finds her scoring early.

Sophie McKinlay
Runner-up last year and part of the exciting new crop of young female talent. Still a teenager but already a major finalist .She will have learned a lot from 2024 and will be determined to go one better.

Irina Armstrong
Often overlooked but a real class act. She’s enjoyed plenty of success across the WDF tour and brings huge experience with her. If she produces her A-game, she could easily reach the latter stages.

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Final Thoughts

The WDF World Championship may not have the glitz of the PDC version, but it has heart, history, and huge competitive value. It remains a showcase for rising stars, seasoned veterans, and talented players who haven’t followed the traditional PDC route. With both the men’s and women’s tournaments looking wide open this year, this could be one of the most exciting editions yet.

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.