Winmau has announced the launch of a brand-new youth tournament – but not everyone is invited. The event, set to be open exclusively to Junior Darts Corporation (JDC) academies affiliated with Winmau, is designed to reward those operating within the brand’s official development structure.
On paper, it’s a straightforward concept: give affiliated academies and their players a bespoke competition. In practice? It’s caused a fair amount of friction across the junior darts landscape.
While many Winmau-affiliated academies are understandably excited, others have been left frustrated, claiming the move creates a “two-tier” system within what was previously seen as an inclusive grassroots framework. Several non-Winmau academies – including those supported by rival brands – have expressed disappointment at being shut out, despite consistently participating in JDC events.
One academy head, who asked not to be named (but presumably doesn’t use a Winmau board), called it “a slap in the face for the kids who train just as hard but happen to use different equipment.” And that sentiment has been echoed loudly on social media.
Garry Plummer of Target Darts posted:
A lot of very unhappy youth academies out there… people volunteering their time to run these academies, supporting young players to play in @JDCdarts events… but told you can’t play in this unless you sign up to a 3-year deal with @Winmau & @JDCdarts. Simply shameful!”
Sudbury Youth Academy added:
“Shocking @Winmau @jdcdarts – you’re telling us none of our academy can play? We’ve got the Foundation Tour Champion, the Irish Champion, and multiple JDC players… and they’re not allowed in? Wow. Great to see there’s no divide in youth darts and that it’s inclusive…”
Jamie Caven, a respected voice in youth development, weighed in with his own view:
“Disappointing to see JDC becoming a closed shop. Just my personal thoughts.”
Even Paignton Darts Academy, who are supported by Unicorn, voiced their disapproval:
“Disappointed to see that junior darts has missed the point of inclusivity in this announcement. It’s a real blow to academies sponsored by other companies – or those not sponsored at all.”
Winmau, for its part, has remained consistent in its message. This tournament, they say, is a reward for academies who have committed to their long-term vision – not an attempt to divide the system. They’ve invested heavily in junior development and want to celebrate that partnership.
But in a sport where unity at the youth level has long been a selling point, the exclusivity has triggered broader questions about sponsorship influence, brand politics, and what “grassroots” really means.
JDC Chairman Steve Brown has not yet publicly addressed the backlash, but further clarification is expected in the coming weeks. In the meantime, Winmau academies will begin preparations – while those on the outside watch, wonder, and perhaps quietly consider their next move.
—–ENDS—–
Images: Winmau
