Jesica Ackermann took the number one spot in women’s singles darts after beating the country’s best at the Darts South Africa Nationals in Bloemfontein.
Ackerman (24) who lives in Newlands, started playing darts when she was 13-years-old at a social event. She has blossomed ever since and became the number one women’s darts player in the country. “I noticed that she was very good from the first time she played,” said her proud father, Johan Ackermann.
Ackerman, who plays for the Central Johannesburg Club, said that she has been selected to play for Gauteng three years in a row and this year was the first time she took first place after competing against about 135 other people. Ackerman lost by one point last year and she was very proud to have won against four Springbok players in the nationals. “I am number one in South African women’s singles darts,” she exclaimed proudly. Ackerman is also the Gauteng women’s undefeated champion for two years in a row.
She said that as soon as she realised that she was good, she started playing for the provincial team. “Most people think that darts is just a pub sport, but it goes deeper than that and it helps a lot with maths,” said Ackerman.
Ackerman’s goal is to get Springbok Colours as that is the highest achievement in the country. “I would also like to play the Winmau Darts challenge in England but unfortunately, I cannot afford R50 000 to get to the tournament,” she said.
Ackerman said her family is always supportive of her playing darts and her parents are always pushing her to do better. “I am very proud of my daughter and my dream is to see her playing internationally,” said Johan.
“I play against myself, I am my only competitor,” concluded Ackerman. She believes that there are many good darts players but she is never afraid to play against them.
Jesica has been very talented in sports, she has played cricket, plays rugby and was also the South African kickboxing champion when she was six years old.
Related articles:
UJ hockey team become champions
VIDEO: Growing Champions has fighting spirit
