Ballymena youth darts players earn team NI call-up for World Championship

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford is pictured with the four Ballymena youth darts players - (not in order) Thomas Elliott, Jacob Todd, Jamie Black, and Leo Jamieson - who are representing Northern Ireland at the JDC World Championships.

Four young darts players from Ballymena have been selected to represent Team Northern Ireland at the prestigious JDC World Championship in Gibraltar this November.

The tournament, recognised as one of the most competitive youth darts events in the world, brings together the best under-18 players from dozens of countries.

For the Ballymena lads, Thomas Elliott, Jacob Todd

Jamie Black, and Leo Jamieson, securing a place on Team NI marks the culmination of months of dedication and consistent performance.

Team Northern Ireland is made up of the top eight youth darts players from across the country. Selection followed 24 weeks of weekly assessments and 11 competitive events, ensuring only the strongest talents were chosen.

The Ballymena players will now join their teammates for a week-long contest featuring both individual and team events against the world’s finest young darts stars.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, congratulated the young athletes, describing their success as a major achievement for both the borough and Northern Ireland.

“I want to congratulate these talented young players on their remarkable achievement. To earn a place representing Northern Ireland is no small feat, and it speaks volumes about their skill, commitment and passion for the sport.

“This is an incredible honour, and I wish them every success as they showcase their skills on the international stage.”

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has emphasised its ongoing support for local sport and youth development.

Both Ballymena and Carrickfergus Junior Darts Academies recently participated in the JDC Academy Nation’s Cup in Wales, reinforcing the area’s growing reputation as a hub for youth darts talent.

The achievement of Ballymena’s rising darts stars is already inspiring the next generation of players within the community, highlighting the strength of grassroots sport in the borough.