With the official 2020 season cancelled in Western Australia, Darts WA have taken the new normal in their stride with a host of social competitions on offer for both members and new comers.
Longtime President of Darts WA, Betty Hislop, spoke to DA Media about the state’s push to keep darts alive in these unprecedented times.
“When restrictions first started we couldn’t play darts because we had no venues in operation. But now that venues have reopened, we’re allowed to have up to 200 people inside, as long as we social distance.” Hislop said.
“We’re not having a season, or state championships, but on the weekends we are running some social darts – which is opened to anybody who wants to come along.”
“At our recent Wyatt Challenger we had 101 starters – with 27 of them being new members. Our Mixed Fours event (held this past Sunday) has over 100 players entered – who are all looking forward to having a game of darts at Belmont Sport and Rec Club.”
Darts WA have worked with associations to implement the COVID-Plan, to support associations across the state in bringing a safe return to darts.
In creating these guidelines, Darts WA aims to provide members with clarity on how to create a safe environment at venues.
“We stayed in touch with our associations with the COVID-Plan, everyone has put that in place and it’s worked out well. Our associations have their committees, who feed back updates to their members.” She said.
“This led to some associations playing socially, while some aren’t having any kind of a season at all.”
“But if WA is all clear by February 2021, I would hope that all our associations get back to a normal seasonal competition and next year we’ll be able to hold all of our state championship events.” she added.
Hislop also encourages the darts community to support their junior program, which includes the young darts prospects from around Western Australia.
“We’re back working with our juniors, our U18s, so I would hope all our members keep their ears open and support our junior program.”
“We have next weekend on the 5th and 6th of September at Belmont for beginners, which will include coaching for the new players and competition for the established U18s.”