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Darts

Darts is a game that combines precision, strategy, and numeracy skills and is a great sport to play with friends. It is the fastest growing TV sport in the world and it’s popularity is at an all-time high after the impact of Luke Littler – the youngest ever PDC World Champion at only 17 years of age.

It requires minimal equipment, making it a perfect activity for college students looking to unwind, socialize, or test their hand-eye coordination. Whether you're playing casually with friends or entering a competitive match, darts has something for everyone.

Equipment Needed

To play darts, you’ll need the following:

Dartboard: The standard dartboard is circular and divided into 20 numbered sections, with a bullseye and outer bull at the center.
Darts: Each player typically uses three darts. These have a pointed end (steel or soft tip), a barrel for grip, a shaft, and a flight to stabilize the throw.
Throw Line (Oche): A line on the floor, typically 2.37 meters (7 feet 9.25 inches) from the dartboard, marks where players stand to throw.

Basic Rules of Play

Here’s how to play the most popular version of darts, "501," which is commonly played across the world.

Objective:

The goal is to score exactly 501 points and finish by hitting a "double" (the thin outer ring on the dartboard or the bullseye.

Game Play:

Players take turns throwing three darts each, aiming to reduce their score from 501 to zero.
Each dart's score corresponds to the section of the board it lands on. For example:
Outer ring: Double the section’s value.
Inner ring: Triple the section’s value.
Bullseye: Outer bullseye (green) scores 25 points; inner bullseye (red)scores 50 points.
If your score goes below zero, your turn is void, and your score reverts to what it was before the turn began.
To win, you must reach exactly zero with your final dart landing in a "double" section or the inner bullseye (red).

Tips for College Players

Practice Your Aim:

Consistency is key to improving in darts. Practice aiming at specific sections of the board to refine your technique. We recommend joining a JDC Darts Academy and trying the JDC routines to gauge your talent.

Learn the Math:

Darts involves quick mental arithmetic. Familiarize yourself with common number combinations to help you finish on a double.

Play with Friends:

The social aspect of darts is one of its biggest draws. Create mini-tournaments or challenge your dorm mates to a match.

Experiment with Different Games:

While "501" is the most popular, there are several other variations like "301," "Cricket," and "Around the Clock" that offer unique challenges. Visit the GoDartsPro website for ideas.

Benefits of Playing Darts

Physical Benefits: Improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.
Mental Benefits: Develop strategic thinking and mental arithmetic skills.
Social Benefits: Bond with friends, meet new people, and engage in friendly competition.

Want to know More:

Join your local JDC Darts Academy and start to take your game further (under 18 years of age for the JDC). Visit GoDartsPro for a variety of on-line learning games and opportunities to improve your practice. Visit the Winmau and Red Dragon website to look at and purchase resources for your darting experience. View the PDC website and visit one of the elite events and enjoy the special party atmosphere created in a PDC event.

There will be further news about competitions, practices and leadership courses coming soon and 2026 will see the launch of a range of activities for college based students.

Darts is more than just a game; it’s a way to relax, connect with others, and sharpen your focus. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, this engaging activity will add plenty of fun to your college experience. So see your tutors, grab some darts, gather your friends, and head to the nearest dartboard—let the games begin!

https://www.juniordarts.com/

https://www.godartspro.com/

https://winmau.com/

https://www.reddragondarts.com/

https://www.pdc.tv/