Family First, Darts All the Way: Meet SportsArena's Number One, Dave Francis

If you’ve played a few tournaments on SportsArena, you already know the name.

At the top of the leaderboard sits Dave Francis – 4× Morden IDL Premier champion, 3× Challenge Cup winner, 5× Grand Champion, former PDC marker, and one of the most consistent competitors on the platform. He's earned £156 so far on SportsArena and built a reputation as the player who always turns up, always competes, and always respects the game.

But behind the averages and titles is a player who keeps his priorities simple: family first, then darts all the way.

Disciplined, Passionate, and Built on Consistency

Ask Dave how he’d introduce himself as a darts player, and the answer isn’t about trophies or reputation.

“I’d introduce myself as a disciplined and passionate darts player who built his game through consistency rather than shortcuts. I’m competitive, but I always approach the sport with respect—both for my opponents and for the game itself. My goal is simple: improve every day and always give my best performance.”

That mindset comes through in everything he does on the oche. There’s no drama, no excuses – just solid, focused darts backed by years of work.

The Title That Means the Most

With a list of honours that would make most players jealous, one achievement stands out above the rest for Dave: the Morden IDL Premier title.

“The 4× Morden IDL Premier title means the most to me. It represents consistency over years, not just one good day. Winning once is special—but proving you can stay at the top repeatedly is what defines a real champion.”

For Dave, success isn’t about a single hot run or one big payday. It’s about staying at the top, year after year, throw after throw.

Family First, Then the Board

The line “Family first then it’s darts all the way” isn’t just a slogan for Dave – it’s how he lives.

“Family keeps me grounded. I structure my practice around family responsibilities, not the other way around. When I’m with them, I’m fully present; when I’m on the board, I’m fully focused. That balance gives me strength rather than pressure.”

That balance is one of the hidden advantages of online darts. Players like Dave can compete at a serious level without sacrificing what matters most at home.

No Alcohol, Full Focus

Darts grew out of pub culture, and for many players, a drink is part of the routine. Dave’s approach is different.

“Staying alcohol-free keeps my mind clear and my focus sharp. Darts may have grown from pub culture, but the modern game requires professionalism. For me it’s about performance, discipline, and longevity.”

It’s a professional attitude that fits perfectly with the evolution of the game – especially online, where cameras are rolling, matches are streamed, and every throw matters.

From PDC Marker to Online Threat

Before becoming a force on SportsArena, Dave was a PDC marker, standing just feet away from some of the best in the world.

“Being a PDC marker taught me how professionals handle pressure, rhythm, and mental control. I learned the importance of staying composed—no matter the situation. That experience still guides how I play today.”

That composure is obvious when he steps up in online tournaments – especially when there's money on the line.

Why Dave Joined SportsArena

Dave has been with SportsArena from the early days. So what made him say “yes” at the start?

“I joined because SportsArena offered something fresh—fair competition, clear organisation, and a real community. It felt like the future of online darts, and I wanted to be part of that from day one.”

He’s not just another name in the bracket; he’s helped shape the culture by consistently showing up, supporting new players, and leading by example.

How Online Tournaments Feel Different

For players used to league nights, noisy bars, and waiting around for boards to free up, online tournaments can feel like a different world.

“Playing from home removes the noise and distractions. It’s just you, the board, and your focus. Also the structure is smoother—no travel, no delays—just pure darts.”

That simplicity is one of SportsArena’s biggest strengths: you set up your board, turn on your camera, and get straight to the match.

Playing for Real Money – The Good Kind of Pressure

Dave has already earned £156 on SportsArena, and that prize pool element changes things – in a good way.

“Yes, prize money adds pressure—but in a positive way. It pushes you to stay sharp and treat every throw seriously. Consistency becomes even more important.”

Every leg matters. Every checkout matters. And for competitive players, that extra edge of pressure is exactly what makes it exciting.

What SportsArena Is Getting Right

As someone who always turns up, retweets events, and supports new ideas, Dave has a clear view of what’s working for players on the platform.

“SportsArena helps players. They keep improving, they’re fair, and they make everyone feel welcome—regardless of level. It’s competitive, but it’s also supportive.”

That combination – serious competition + a welcoming community – is what keeps people coming back.

“You Don’t Need to Be Perfect to Start”

A lot of players watch from the sidelines thinking they’re not ready, or that online play will be too complicated. Dave has a simple message for them:

“You don’t need to be perfect to start. SportsArena is the best place to grow because you play real matches against real people. The only way to improve is to jump in and learn.”

No one starts as a champion. Every player who is now “one of the good ones” started by taking that first slightly nervous step into a competition.

What’s Next for Dave?

For all he’s achieved, Dave isn’t close to done.

“My goals are to keep improving, compete at higher levels, and win more titles—both online and in traditional darts. I want to push my game to a point where I’m consistently performing at a top standard.”

That’s the bar he’s setting for himself – and, in a way, for everyone else who steps into a SportsArena bracket.

Ready to Test Yourself?

Whether you’re a seasoned county player, a local league regular, or someone who’s only ever thrown at a board in the spare room, SportsArena gives you the chance to line up against players like Dave from home.

Real matches. Real money. Real competition.

And as Dave says:
“You don’t need to be perfect to start.”