Pendle Youth Darts Academy in Barrowford has announced an exciting new partnership with global darts brand Target Darts, a move that promises to significantly enhance training and opportunities for its young players.
The academy, which operates out of the David Street Club, is led by former Lancashire County Darts competitor Gary Hooper alongside Mark Edwards. Though only launched in October 2024, the academy has rapidly grown and now trains 32 young players, with another 30 currently on a waiting list.
Target Darts, which sponsors teenage sensation Luke ‘the Nuke’ Littler, was reportedly impressed by the academy’s setup during a visit and has since supplied new equipment and resources.
“We are thrilled to have the honour and privilege of partnering with Target Darts,” said Mark Edwards. “This partnership will only enhance and support our students by giving them the best experience that Target offers its academy players.”
The partnership will grant students access to elite equipment, improved training materials, and Target’s wider support network — a significant step forward for the young players’ development.
The academy operates a grading system that has already helped many players make strong progress. Two of the top-performing students are set to compete in the Junior Darts Corporation finals in January 2026.
Gary Hooper credited the academy’s success to its dedicated team of 10 volunteers, saying their commitment is essential to everything the club achieves.
Looking to the future, Hooper hopes the partnership will help nurture homegrown talents who could follow in the footsteps of rising darts star Kaya Baysal. Baysal, who has appeared at Pendle Darts Academy exhibitions, made headlines by becoming the youngest winner of a World Darts Federation event after her victory at the Budapest Classic in April.
“While none of our players are at Kaya’s level yet, we believe this partnership gives them the best possible platform to aim that high,” said Hooper.
