Yes. Darts is a sport because it requires the use of athletic skill such as hand-eye coordination and physical strength to propel an object into a group of objects. It also requires strategic thinking and significant amounts of practice, much like similar sports such as archery and horseshoes.
Indeed, darts meets all the criteria for classification as a sport.
Darts is recognized in a number of countries as a sport including the United Kingdom, Germany and the United States.
Table of Contents
What makes a sport a sport?
A sport is defined as an activity involving physical exertion and skill in which an individual or team competes against another or others for entertainment. Darts certainly meets this definition because it involves the use of athletic skill to propel a projectile in a similar way to archery, javelin and discus.
To be considered a sport, the activity in question must also provide either economic or physical benefits. It is difficult to determine whether darts provides any economic benefit since most players are only playing recreationally and not professionally. However, the game does require an incredible amount of practice to master at any level.
Conclusion: Darts meets all the criteria
Why is darts not a mixed sport?
The world of darts is a male-dominated one, but that doesn’t mean women can’t compete. In fact there are separate championships for men and women. There are no restrictions on women playing against men, although no official mixed tournaments exist.
Is darts an Olympic sport?
Darts has not been designated an Olympic sport and has no immediate plans to be added as such. However, it is listed as a recognized sport by the World Darts Federation which is the worldwide governing body for darts.
Is darts a sport in Canada?
In Canada, darts is not a recognized sport by Sport Canada. Darts is more popular as a pub game but it is still considered a sport by many players and fans.
Is darts a sport in Australia?
Yes, darts is a sport in Australia.
Is darts a Commonwealth Games sport?
Darts has been recognized as a Commonwealth Games sport since 1998 and is currently played at the Commonwealth Games in both under-19 and open divisions.
In conclusion
Darts is a sport, even though it’s not an Olympic one. It requires hand-eye coordination and physical strength to propel an object into a group of objects – which are the requirements for any sport. Furthermore, darts is recognized as a Sport in Australia, Canada, Germany and the United States among other countries.
Alex Cooper is the editor of this website. He loves darts and helping people. Alex started playing darts at the young age of 10, as his father was also a keen darts player, and has loved it ever since. Alex enjoys writing about darts and helping others learn more about the sport.
The easy way to keep track of your score is with our printable darts scoresheets. Easy to download and keep on your phone or computer or print straight off from our website. Pop your email address into the box and we'll send them straight to you.