Introduction: From Rugby Pitches to Dart Boards
When you think of a world champion darts player, a former professional rugby player might not be the first image that springs to mind. But that’s exactly the journey that Gerwyn Price, the reigning PDC World Darts Champion, has taken. From the rough and tumble of the rugby pitch to the precision and focus of the oche, Price’s journey is as unique as it is inspiring.
The Rugby Years: Price’s First Sporting Love
Gerwyn Price was born on 7th March 1985 in Markham, Wales. He was a natural athlete from a young age and quickly found his calling in rugby, a sport that is a way of life in Wales. Price played as a hooker, a position that requires strength, agility, and a fearless attitude – qualities that would later serve him well in his darts career.
Price played rugby at a professional level for Welsh Premier Division clubs Neath and Cross Keys, and even had a stint in the Glasgow Warriors in the Pro14 league. But it was during his time playing for Cross Keys in 2010 that Price was introduced to darts, a game that would change his life forever.
The Transition: Swapping Tackles for Trebles
Price’s introduction to darts came through his rugby teammates, who would often play a game or two after training sessions. Price quickly discovered he had a knack for the game, and before long, he was entering local darts competitions – and winning them.
In 2014, Price decided to take the plunge and turn professional. He earned his PDC Tour Card at the first attempt, a feat that is as rare as it is impressive. Price’s rise in the darts world was meteoric. Within just a few years, he was competing against the likes of Phil Taylor and Michael van Gerwen, players he had watched on TV just a few years earlier.
The Iceman Cometh: Price’s Rise to the Top
Price’s aggressive playing style and fiery on-stage persona quickly earned him the nickname ‘The Iceman’. But it wasn’t just his personality that was making waves. Price’s performances on the oche were turning heads too. In 2018, he won his first major title, the Grand Slam of Darts, becoming the first Welsh player to do so.
But Price’s crowning glory came in 2021 when he won the PDC World Darts Championship, defeating two-time champion Gary Anderson in the final. With this victory, Price became the first Welsh player to win the World Championship and rose to number one in the PDC Order of Merit.
Fun Facts and Trivia
Did you know that Price is a qualified rugby referee? He took up refereeing during his rugby career to better understand the game. This understanding of rules and fair play has undoubtedly helped him in his darts career.
Price is also known for his love of singing. He often belts out a tune or two during darts competitions, much to the delight (or bemusement) of the crowd. His go-to song? ‘Sweet Caroline’ by Neil Diamond.
And finally, Price’s walk-on song is ‘Ice Ice Baby’ by Vanilla Ice, a nod to his ‘Iceman’ nickname. The song has become synonymous with Price and often gets the crowd going before his matches.
The Legacy of Gerwyn Price
Gerwyn Price’s journey from rugby player to world champion darts player is a testament to his talent, determination, and sheer force of will. His success has not only catapulted him to the top of the darts world but has also put Welsh darts firmly on the map.
Price’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue a new passion, and that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. As the reigning World Champion and the current number one player in the world, the future looks bright for ‘The Iceman’. And one thing’s for sure – the world of darts won’t be cooling down anytime soon.
