“After the Littler effect it will be a conveyor belt” - Chris Mason predicts wave of young stars after witnessing JDC Junior Power League

Chris Mason believes darts could soon see a constant stream of elite young players emerging after witnessing the level of talent on display at the JDC Junior Power League.

The former PDC professional was on commentary for the opening night of the competition last Friday, an event streamed live on YouTube that showcased some of the most promising young players in the sport. For Mason, the professional environment the JDC now provides is already accelerating the development of the next generation.

“Yeah, I got asked to do the first one last year,” Mason explained in conversation with the Weekly Dartscast. “It was in Coventry, in a place they used to use for the JDC. But Steve Brown and all the team have ended up getting hold of our old county venue from the West of England days, and he’s done an incredible job.”

The venue itself left a major impression on the former World Matchplay semi-finalist. “It is without doubt the best darts facility I have ever been to. It’s just incredible, and it’s all for the kids. It gives them a great platform.”

For Mason, the importance of giving young players access to that kind of professional setting is clear. “Years ago there wasn’t that emphasis on youth darts. Now they’re playing under the lights, they’re getting commentary, and they can learn so much more about their own game. By the time they get around to wanting to go to Q School and making debuts here, there and everywhere, they’re going to be ready.”

According to Mason, the impact of structured youth development is already beginning to show across the sport. “I think over the next ten years or so we’re going to see a huge change. There’s already been a shift, but I think after the Littler effect, in possibly ten years’ time, it’s just going to be a conveyor belt – one after another coming through.”

Early signs of that progress are already visible. Mason pointed to the performance of Mitchell Lawrie, who produced a nine darter during the JDC Advanced Tour.

Working closely with these young players also gives Mason a unique perspective on the future of the sport.

“But yeah, it’s a great privilege and something I love to do because it gives me a bit of insight and a bit of foresight into what’s coming next,” Mason said. “I’ll have a bit of a leg up on everybody else because I’ve already seen them, assessed them, talked to them and discussed any little issues they may have in their game, or little things I think could add to their ability and performance.”

For Mason, the opportunity to work with the JDC is something he values deeply. “But yeah, it’s an honour to be asked. I love every minute of it. It’s great fun and humbling.”

With initiatives like the JDC Junior Power League continuing to grow, Mason believes darts is laying the foundations for a powerful new generation of players.