'It's like a big sporting family'

A Blackpool 'walk-on girl' says she is saddened by the decision of the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) to axe the tradition.
By The Newsroom
Published 31st Jan 2018, 11:28 BST
Updated 31st Jan 2018, 11:31 BST
Jade Slusarczyk, appearing with snooker legend Jimmy White, when he made a guest appearance at Longton Sports and Social Club. The six times World Championship finalist played a few frames and reminisced about his career to to a packed crowd.Jade Slusarczyk, appearing with snooker legend Jimmy White, when he made a guest appearance at Longton Sports and Social Club. The six times World Championship finalist played a few frames and reminisced about his career to to a packed crowd.
Jade Slusarczyk, appearing with snooker legend Jimmy White, when he made a guest appearance at Longton Sports and Social Club. The six times World Championship finalist played a few frames and reminisced about his career to to a packed crowd.

The PDC announced earlier this week the long-established practice of women escorting male players to the stage would be abandoned, after talks with broadcasters.

But Jade Slusarczyk, who has been a walk-on girl with Sky Sports for seven years and worked at major darts and snooker events across the country, said she was disappointed.

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The 32-year-old former Miss Poulton, from Blackpool, said: “Some people say having walk-on girls is demeaning or degrading, but I do not feel degraded at all.

“I’ve done so many events, I’ve done exhibitions and appearances all over England, in Europe and in America. I love it.

“I’ve been able to travel and see different places.

“I don’t wear skimpy outfits, I wear classy, knee-length dresses. I have never been made to feel uncomfortable or to do anything I didn’t want to do, there’s never been anything untoward.

“It’s like a big sporting family – I’ve made so many friends through it.”

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A spokesman for the PDC said: “We regularly review all aspects of our events and this move has been made following feedback from our host broadcasters.”

A petition has been started by fans, calling for the girls to be reinstated.

• You can read more about Jade’s views and her experiences as a walk-on girl in Tuesday’s Eve.

Related topics:PoultonBlackpoolSky SportsEnglandEurope