AN interesting move sees Darts Corner officially announce a partnership with Derek Coulson, who wore the Darts Corner logo as he secured his place at his first PDC World Darts Championship this weekend.
As a long-time Darts Corner customer, Coulson has now joined them as a sponsored player. It remains to be seen how the partnership is structured and whether Derek will use the retailers branded items or have barrels made for him etc. It may be a unique deal due to shared initials?
Those who remember a bygone era may recall that Mike Gregory shared a sponsorship arrangement based around his initials matching a company might this be an equivalent?
The 58-year-old, who lives in Shropshire, sealed his place after coming second on the PDC Challenge Tour Order of Merit, earning not only a two-year tour card but also a place in his first PDC World Darts Championship this December.
Having earned his place at this year’s tournament, Coulson will become the oldest debutant at the Worlds since Deta Hedman in 2021, and the oldest male debutant since John MaGowan in 2006.
The triumph continues Derek’s remarkable rise through the sport in recent years.
Coulson reached the semi-finals of the World Seniors Championship in 2025, defeating John Henderson and Mervyn King along the way.
The Welshman has also enjoyed success in the MODUS Super Series throughout 2026.
Coulson’s journey to competing on the world’s biggest stage is a unique one. Originally from Llantwit Major in Wales, he moved to Surrey, where he played pool and darts competitions at local pubs.
He then moved to Market Drayton, Shropshire, and joined the local pub pool team. The pub started a darts team and asked Coulson to join, subsequently sparking his meteoric rise from pub player to pro.
The new partnership will see Darts Corner support Coulson as he embarks on his first PDC World Championship campaign and competes at the highest level of darts in the coming years.
Claire Isbister, Head of Marketing for Darts Corner, said: “We are beyond delighted to announce our partnership with Derek. He has shown throughout 2026 that he belongs on the big stage, and we can’t wait to see him at the Worlds this year.
“This is just the next step in an exciting journey for Derek, and we are all backing him to continue his remarkable rise.”
Derek Coulson said: “I am very pleased to have Darts Corner’s official backing. This year has been fantastic for me, and this is another step in taking my game to the next level.
“I’ve worked hard to be in the position I am today, and I’m excited to have the support of Darts Corner as I continue to compete with the biggest names in the sport.”
Images: Darts Corner
