As a female darts player, I often feel the weight of negative perceptions surrounding my involvement in the sport. It's disheartening to be viewed as less serious or competent simply because of my gender. One significant contributor to this perception is the presence of exclusively female cheerleaders at darts tournaments, which subtly implies that women are meant only to serve as decorative additions rather than as serious competitors.

And let's not forget the message it sends to men. We all know a man who would feel ridiculed for wanting to be a cheerleader and that's not fair. If a person wants to shake some sparkly pom poms on a stage they shouldn't feel a second of anxiety over going for it!

Gender equality is a pressing issue in sports, and darts is no exception. The current setup at darts tournaments undermines the growing number of talented female players by perpetuating outdated stereotypes. 

By including male cheerleaders alongside their female counterparts, we send a powerful message: both genders have an equal place in the sport, whether as participants, supporters, or entertainers. This change will help dismantle harmful stereotypes, promote a more inclusive environment, and demonstrate that darts can lead the way in gender equality in sports entertainment.

Statistics show that gender bias in sports contributes to negative experiences for athletes, with female players often facing more scrutiny and prejudice. By balancing the presence of cheerleaders to include males, we can start to break down these barriers.

Join me in urging the organisers of darts tournaments to take this step towards gender equality. Let's work together to reshape perceptions in the world of darts. Sign this petition to support the inclusion of male cheerleaders at darts tournaments and stand up for equality. It may seem like a small and insignificant detail but with more and more young eyes on the sport the small details and the messages young minds receive about gender matter now more than ever.