Stirling darts starlet takes on fundraising effort to make European tournament dream come true

Stirling darts starlet Jessica Matheson put in a top display at the Scottish Open at the weekend – finishing the tournament as runner-up.

The 13-year-old won all three of her group games and her semi-final to reach the final of the girls competition. This was her first stage final therefore a new and exciting experience.

The Wallace High pupil fell in love with the game after tuning to watch the World Championships on TV two year ago with her dad, Gary.

Jessica became invested in the game after selecting Belgian Dimitri Van den Bergh and current World No. 1 and reigning world champion Luke Humphries as her favourite players.

Jessica told the Observer: “I started practicing playing darts in May 2022. In the summer of 2023 I joined Strathearn Youth Darts Academy in Auchterarder where I practice with other youths each week.

“I have met many new friends through the academy and competitions. In August I entered my first competition.

“I won my first trophy by winning the JDC (Junior Darts Corporation) NADA (North Ayrshire Darts Academy) Girls Open title in only the first month of playing competitively.

“In December last year I qualified for the SDA Girls Matchplay (finals day) where I came runner-up.

“Shortly after I was selected to represent Scotland; and I am excited to play for my country at the British Internationals (Glenrothes) in April this year, and at the Europe Cup (Latvia) in July.”

To help with her accommodation and travel expenses for the Latvia trip, Jessica is now seeking donations via an online fundraiser.

To donate towards the trip, go to https://gofund.me/cff7fcdc.

If any businesses wish to sponsor, they can get in touch by emailing jessicamathesondarts@gmail.com.