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January 02.2026

2 Minutes Read

Discover the Passionate Hammond-Hope Family Growing Darts in Canada

Young players promoting the sport of darts, vibrant and inclusive scene

A Connected Family Through Darts

The Hammond-Hope family demonstrates the powerful bond formed through a shared passion for darts, spanning from the lush landscapes of British Columbia to the coastal views of Newfoundland. With 17-year-old Peyton Hammond recently crowned the World Darts Federation World Cup Youth Singles champion, it's clear that darts is more than just a pastime; it's a potential career path bringing this family closer together.

From Small Beginnings to Competitive Champions

Bill Hammond Jr.'s journey with darts began as a lighthearted invitation in the '90s. What started as a fun diversion soon blossomed into a competitive family endeavor. With his wife Sandy, they not only fell in love with the sport but also with each other. Now, their children are making waves in the darting community, proving that darts can indeed be a serious endeavor. “The opportunities for dart players nowadays are absolutely amazing. You could make a career out of it now,” Bill expresses, emphasizing how much the sport has evolved.

Breaking Stereotypes: Darts is More Than a Pub Sport

Contrary to the common misconception that darts is merely a drinking game, 16-year-old Jayda Hammond passionately states, “It's not just a pub sport like everybody thinks it is.” Instead, darts serve as a familial catalyst, connecting individuals across generations. The Hammonds illustrate how the game bolsters valuable skills such as coordination, math, and social interaction, while fostering close-knit relationships.

A Deep Commitment to Growing the Sport

The family is heavily invested in expanding the reach of darts across Canada. Despite challenges in attracting newcomers to the sport, they emphasize grassroots efforts such as online outreach and community events. Bill notes frustrations in trying to introduce darts in schools, where misconceptions about safety measures hinder progress. He remains optimistic, however, and believes that platforms like Facebook can help draw interest and curate local darting communities.

The Future of Darts in Canada

Peyton, with dreams of relocating to England for greater competitive opportunities, illustrates the sport's promise. In the U.K., tournaments happen practically every weekend, while North America offers far less frequent competition. However, the Hammond family's commitment to mentoring and promoting darts offers hope for a thriving darting culture in Canada. As they pave the way for younger generations, it’s evident that investment in the sport today can yield champions tomorrow.

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