After the turbulent times of the BDO’s collapse and the global pandemic, the World Darts Federation (WDF) has heroically stepped in to revive the sport’s most cherished events. This exclusive insight reveals how the WDF, led by General Secretary Nick Rolls, rebooted the iconic Lakeside World Championships, introduced fairer prize money structures—especially for women—and navigated immense challenges like event cancellations. Crucially, the WDF has forged a vital partnership with the PDC, paving the way for a more unified and exciting future for darts. Get ready for the phoenix to rise!
A New Dawn for Darts: The WDF Takes the Reins
The year 2022 marked a crucial reset for many sports, and darts was no exception. Following the unfortunate demise of the British Darts Organisation (BDO) in 2019, which left a significant void, the World Darts Federation (WDF) courageously stepped forward. Their mission? To rebuild and resurrect some of darts’ most historic tournaments, ensuring the sport’s traditions continued for players and fans alike.
The Resurrection of the World Championships
The highlight of this revival was undoubtedly the inaugural WDF World Championships, which burst into life like a phoenix from the flames on April 2nd, 2022. This event brought back the famous tournament that many feared was lost forever. Originally slated for January, the event faced an initial postponement due to the lingering uncertainties of the global pandemic.
Despite the setbacks, it was eventually “all systems go,” with the countdown leading to the iconic Lakeside Country Club. This historic venue once again played host, witnessing the crowning of four new champions across nine thrilling days: Men’s, Women’s, Boys, and Girls titles were all fiercely contested. For a governing body approaching fifty years, the WDF’s intervention was crucial in recreating a valued and deeply rooted tradition in amateur darts.
Shaping the Future: Key Initiatives and Challenges
WDF General Secretary Nick Rolls shared exclusive insights into the organisation’s plans and the hurdles they overcame.
Prioritising Players: Tournament Grading and Prize Money
Rolls highlighted that a primary focus was on addressing player concerns, drawing on his and Chief Development Officer Richard Ashdown’s extensive experience. “We knew the main things that needed addressing,” he stated. Key initiatives included:
- Clear Tournament Structure: Introduction of a Gold, Silver, and Bronze grading system. This structure clearly defines which tournaments offer the highest ranking points and the largest prize money, making it easier for players to plan their schedules.
- Enhanced Women’s Prize Money: A significant commitment was made to better recognise the women’s game. The WDF introduced a new prize fund structure designed to incentivise ladies to attend tournaments. This commitment was firm for 2022, with a caveat that if women’s entry numbers didn’t increase, the strategy might need revision.
- Member Country Consultation: Crucially, all seventy WDF Member Countries were consulted before finalising these structures. Rolls emphasised, “At the end of the day, it’s ‘their’ WDF. Gaining their support for our plans and tweaking suggestions for the better was vital.”
Navigating the Pandemic: The Pain of Postponements
The WDF’s journey was not without its difficulties, with the pandemic forcing tough decisions.
- 2021 Masters Cancellation: The 2021 Masters tournament in Holland had to be cancelled due to lockdown restrictions. Rolls described this as a major setback, recalling the disappointment of not delivering on promises after so many countries and players had put their faith in the WDF. He praised the Dutch Darts Federation (NDB) and its director, Paul Engelbertink, for their understanding and support.
- World Championships Postponement: Making the call to postpone the World Championships to April was equally, if not more, difficult. The decision was made on December 15th, 2021, amidst a bleak COVID situation in the UK, with expectations of further national lockdowns. Rolls affirmed, “given the facts available at that specific time, we fully believe it was the right call.” Fortunately, luck played a part, with both Lakeside and Eurosport being available for the new April dates, a “big slice of luck” after all the hard work.
The Iconic Lakeside and Unprecedented Collaboration
The choice of venue and a surprising collaboration highlighted the WDF’s pragmatic approach.
Lakeside: The Spiritual Home of Darts
The decision to host the World Championships at Lakeside was a straightforward one. Rolls stated, “My personal view is that Lakeside is still known as ‘the home of World darts’.” The venue’s symbolic recognition among players and fans, combined with established relationships, made it the clear first choice. Once an agreement was in principle, looking at other venues took a back seat.
Working with the PDC: A Game-Changing Agreement
A significant moment of cooperation emerged when the WDF World Championships were rescheduled to after the PDC Q-School, potentially conflicting with players gaining professional tour cards. Rolls explained, “we still felt an obligation to those players as well as the integrity and credibility of our esteemed tournament.”
The WDF reached out to the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC), asking them to consider allowing new tour card holders to still compete at Lakeside. To the delight of the WDF, the PDC agreed to a one-off decision, recognising the extenuating circumstances. This unprecedented collaboration meant seven players who secured PDC tour cards were still permitted to play at Lakeside. Rolls was thrilled, noting, “It was in the best interest of the players and the game. We were thrilled both organisations recognised that.” This level of cooperation is something many in darts have long hoped for.
Looking Ahead: Grand Slam, TV, and Future Harmony
Grand Slam of Darts Representation
When asked about WDF players being invited to the Grand Slam, Rolls expressed a clear desire: “Yes, of course.” He acknowledged that the PDC’s criteria for the Grand Slam had evolved since the BDO’s full representation but affirmed that discussions with the PDC’s Chief Executive, Matt Porter, and other officials continue. The WDF’s goal is to “prove that we are a credible option for darts at a grass roots level” and to showcase the excitement of WDF players competing against professionals.
Expanding Television Coverage with Eurosport
Eurosport broadcast the World Championships, and the WDF hopes this partnership will open doors for future TV coverage of other WDF events, such as the Masters and various Opens. For now, the focus remains on “perfectly execut[ing] a return to Lakeside and produc[ing] a professional TV coverage that viewers want to see more of.”
Seeking Harmony: WDF and PDC Event Scheduling
The question of avoiding clashes between major WDF and PDC events is complex. While Lakeside historically started on the first Saturday of the year, and overlapping schedules were once not seen as an issue, Rolls admitted it’s “a really difficult one to answer.” He noted that finding common ground, particularly in the women’s game, would be beneficial. Both organisations are working towards solutions, with Rolls describing it as “work in progress with doors in both camps wide open…”
A Promising Future for Darts
The WDF’s efforts in 2022 represent a pivotal moment for grassroots darts. By reviving cherished tournaments, implementing player-focused initiatives, and fostering crucial relationships, the WDF is laying a strong foundation for a vibrant and inclusive future for the sport.
Source: Based on an article from Darts World Magazine.
