Helmsdale darts star speaks of pride of being called up to Scotland squad
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NICKY Denoon says being called up to the Scotland darts squad is the proudest moment of his career so far.
The Helmsdale darts star will make his debut for his country at the British Internationals in Skegness next month.
The 39-year-old has been selected in the Scottish squad of 12 men and six women which will take on England and Wales between Friday, April 21 and Sunday, April 23.
The bricklayer has had an outstanding 12 months as he has made a major impression at tournaments across the country. But he says receiving the call-up to play for Scotland is the pinnacle of his career so far.
“This is the first time that I have been called up to the Scotland squad,” said Denoon.
“There were a few people saying to me before the announcement that I had to be in the squad. But until you get the call, you never know.
“The last 14 months have been the most successful in terms of winning tournaments.
“This is the best moment of my darts career so far.
“Playing for Scotland is something that I have wanted to do for a while.”
Denoon has won a number of tournaments over the past year, including the Western Isles Open.
Last year, he also won the Scottish Darts Association Men’s Tour competition at Bannockburn.
He was also crowned Inverness Summer Darts Association champion in September.
Denoon says he has become more focussed on his darts career in the past year which is leading to improved results at the oche.
“I am dedicating more time to darts and I have gone to most competitions when I can.
“Before I was picking and choosing tournaments as with work it was difficult to do.
“It can be hard going, but I am managing just now as darts is enjoyable.”
Denoon only started playing competitively in 2011 after previously playing football with Brora Rangers in the Highland League and Bunillidh Thistle in the North Caledonian League.
Denoon now plays for champions Portland A in the Inverness Darts League and also for Highland in the Scottish County League.
Denoon says he is aiming to make an impression for Scotland at the British Internationals next month, saying he is looking forward to the challenge.
“There are a few of the English players that I know such as 2015 BDO world champion Scott Mitchell,” he said.
“My target is to carry on my good form and put a point on the board for Scotland.”
