DARTS NIGHT BRINGS FEMALE FANS TOGETHER AT OLDHAM ATHLETIC

Darts is one of the UK's fastest growing sports, with the recent success of teen sensation Luke Littler contributing towards its rising popularity.

And it was a row of darts boards that a group of almost 60 female Oldham Athletic fans gathered round for the club's second "Girls Night In", hosted by Oldham's Her Game Too team and the club's female liaison officers.

The event took place at Oldham’s largest darts venue, providing a welcoming and inclusive space for women to socialise, enjoy some games of darts, and connect with fellow Latics supporters.

The evening was designed to bring people together in a relaxed and enjoyable setting, with many participants expressing enthusiasm for future events of a similar nature.

Support from local sponsors played a key role in the event’s success; Metool Co Ltd provided snacks, while F and F Motor Services sponsored welcome drinks, contributing to the friendly and enjoyable atmosphere.

A raffle and competition featured a variety of prizes, including a simulator hour’s ride donated by OAFC Veterans, as well as contributions from Sam O’Leary via Ben and Ellie’s Smellies, Hope and Glory (who donated Her Game Too hats), and other supporters. The evening was made possible through the efforts of Pamela Makin, who arranged the venue and secured official club prizes for the raffle. The raffle raised £122.30, which will be donated to Oldham Athletic Girls and Women’s Team to support their development.

Hosting duties for the event were taken on by Kathy Flanagan, whose enthusiasm and energy helped ensure a lively and engaging evening.

Members of the Oldham Athletic Women’s Team were also in attendance, celebrating what has been an impressive first season together. Looking ahead, efforts are being made to secure Boundary Park as a venue for some of the team’s fixtures during pre-season and the upcoming season, providing further opportunities to support and showcase women’s football at the club.

The Friday Night Darts event built on the success of last year’s International Women’s Day panel, continuing the club’s commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for female supporters. Events like these provide an opportunity to celebrate the contribution of women to the club while strengthening the sense of community among sports lovers.

Reflecting on the night, Her Game Too Ambassador Alison Schofield said: "Friday night was just great. We welcomed local darts teams who don’t usually watch Oldham and some Latics fans who don’t normally play darts. By the end of the night, everyone was playing, having a laugh, and some of the darts players even said they’d be up for watching a game at Boundary Park.

"This is exactly what we wanted - to create a space where women feel comfortable, have fun, and bring new people through the doors. Most of the darts players weren’t even aware of this new facility here, so now that they are, hopefully, they’ll come along again.

"We had some great support and feedback, with everyone asking for something more frequent, so we’re definitely going to see what we can do!"