Dragons Darts named 2025 Franchise of the Year after stellar African tour, eye 2026 success

KIMBERLEY’S Dragons Darts franchise capped off an exceptional 2025 by earning the prestigious title of Franchise of the Year, a recognition that comes with both bragging rights and a cash reward.

“We as the Dragons franchise won Franchise of the Year 2025, and along with it comes bragging rights and a nice cash boost. Our franchise grew consistently to be one of the largest franchises in the southern part of Africa,” said franchise owner Liam de Wit.

The franchise’s success was built on a continental presence, attending every African Championship Tour (ACT) event from Botswana to Namibia and competing in Kenya for the Grand Final against Northern Africa. This consistent participation has positioned the Dragons as one of Africa’s leading darts franchises.

The team also boasts some of the region’s top female players. Leane van Der Walt topped the women’s rankings with 1690 points and placed 15th overall in the southern region. Zeidi Kruger secured fifth place with 690 points, and Cammy Walters ranked seventh with 620 points. On the men’s side, Bradley Pillay, Clinton Pillay, and rising talents Damien Dreyer and AC Bothma delivered standout performances, challenging some of the sport’s biggest names.

Looking ahead, de Wit is optimistic about the future. “We as the Dragons franchise can’t wait to compete in 2026 and hopefully retain the franchise of the year title and grow to an even stronger franchise,” he said.

The Dragons also host a social league every Wednesday evening at the Phoenix Hotel in Beaconsfield. Interested players can connect via their Facebook page, Kimberley Diamonds Darts.

Fans can mark their calendars for the first ACT in Kimberley, running from 10 to 12 April. The winner will earn a chance to compete at the World Cup of Darts in Germany alongside SA’s legendary Graham Filby, “The Detonator”.