The MODUS Super Series (MSS) has rapidly transformed from a digital darts concept during the 2020/21 pandemic into a premier live broadcast event, now widely regarded as second only to the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) in terms of production quality, player talent, and competitive play. This remarkable journey saw it evolve from online matches to a secure ‘bubble’ studio, then to a dedicated ‘Live Lounge’ arena with a live audience and significant prize money. It offers unparalleled opportunities for both established stars and emerging talent, featuring regular weekly competitions, special themed events like Women’s Week and Double Trouble, and hosting major championships like the ADC Global Championship, all contributing to a vibrant and continuously expanding darts ecosystem.
The Genesis: Darts in a Digital Age
The MODUS Super Series began its life in response to the unique challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. In 2020/21, with live sports on hold, the concept of ‘A Night at the Darts’ emerged, featuring invited competitors playing from their own homes. This innovative approach kept darts alive and provided much-needed entertainment.
The idea quickly evolved into a more controlled environment: a sealed ‘bubble’ where players could compete safely during restrictive periods. This not only ensured competitive activity for the players but also provided live sporting content for bookmakers and fans alike.
Evolution to the Live League
The ‘bubble’ concept soon led to the establishment of a new, purpose-built studio and playing space in Southampton, UK. For much of 2021 and 2022, this became known as the Live League. During this period, the multi-day group stage format, which is still central to the MSS today, was carefully refined and perfected.
The MODUS Live Lounge: A Permanent Home
Towards the end of 2022, the MODUS Super Series underwent its most significant transformation yet. A permanent, state-of-the-art ‘arena’ was constructed within a converted church in Portsmouth, UK, dubbed the MODUS Live Lounge. This dedicated venue brought a new level of professionalism and spectacle to the event, featuring:
- A professional stage setup.
- Enhanced TV and broadcast operations from Sporty TV and Online Darts.
- The exciting addition of a ticketed live audience for finals nights.
Unprecedented Growth and Opportunity
By 2023, the MODUS Super Series had firmly established its highly successful format: a 12-week qualifying period culminating in a Champions Week finale in Week 13. This structure, combined with a total player prize fund exceeding £1,000,000, solidified its position as a major force in professional darts.
Expanding Horizons: Special Event Weeks
2024 marked the introduction of popular special event weeks, designed to offer diverse competitive formats and showcase different aspects of the sport:
- Double Trouble: Featuring star pairings like Neil Duff and Robert Thornton.
- Women’s Week: Highlighting top female talent, with Rhian O’Sullivan being a notable participant.
- Legends League: Launched in January 2025, bringing together iconic names in darts.
Beyond its regular programming, the MODUS Super Series stage also proudly hosts the annual singles finals for men and women of the Amateur Darts Circuit (ADC), including their prestigious ADC Global Championship. Additionally, the venue is regularly used for charity one-off events featuring YouTube influencers and other personalities, further expanding its reach and impact.
MODUS Super Series Hall of Fame & Key Milestones
The MODUS Super Series has been a platform for both established darting superstars and exciting newcomers, contributing to a remarkable independent darts structure. Below are some of the significant achievements and winners who have left their mark on the MSS:
Pioneering Achievements:
- Jim McEwan (Scotland) – November 2023: The very first Live League & Champions Week Winner.
- Luke Littler (England) – August 2023: Achieved the distinction of being the first back-to-back winner.
- Fallon Sherrock (England) – August 2023: Made history by throwing the first broadcast 9-Dart leg by a female player on the MSS stage.
- Beau Greaves (England): The first female player to win a MSS weekly league.
Notable Event Winners:
This list includes weekly winners from the original Live League venue and format, as well as champions from special events. Only the player’s first weekly win and the month/year are noted, unless it’s a specific championship.
- February 2024 – Double Trouble: Neil Duff (Northern Ireland)
- September 2024 – Double Trouble: Robert Thornton (Scotland)
- December 2024 – ADC Global Championship*: Devon Petersen (South Africa)
- January 2025 – Women’s Week II: Kirsi Viinikainen (Finland)
- January 2025 – Women’s Week V: Fallon Sherrock (England)
- January 2025 – Seniors Showdown: Simon Whitlock (Australia)
- January 2025 – ADC Global Championship*: Jack Tweddell (England)
- May 2025 – International Pairs: Jimmy van Schie & Danny Van Trijp (Netherlands)
- August 2025 – International Pairs II: Conor Heneghan & John O’Shea (Ireland)
*Note: While the ADC Global Championship is not an official Super Series Week, it is contested on the MSS stage, in the MSS venue, and follows similar group and finals day formats, making it an integral part of the overall MODUS darts experience.
The MODUS Super Series is a continuously evolving event, with new categories, players, and details being added regularly. This overview is by no means exhaustive but aims to capture the essence of its incredible journey and impact on the world of darts.
Source: Based on an article from Darts World Magazine.
