A Rising Star: 15-Year-Old Lexi-Jayne Rooksby Shines in Junior Darts
In an inspiring tale of natural talent and determination, 15-year-old Lexi-Jayne Rooksby from Rushden, Northamptonshire, has qualified for the prestigious JDC World Youth Championship in Gibraltar, to be held this November. Known affectionately as "The Knockout," this milestone represents a significant achievement in her promising darts career.A Humble Beginning
Rooksby's journey into darts began just two years ago, under circumstances that were more serendipitous than deliberate. Initially, she picked up a dart to help out her father's pub team, which was short of players at the time. What started as a casual effort quickly evolved into a showcase of remarkable talent. Despite being a relative newcomer to the sport, Rooksby’s exceptional skill set became evident almost immediately, prompting her rapid rise within the darts community.Making Her Mark
Since her initial foray into the sport, Rooksby has competed at the county level, holding her own against seasoned professionals from Northamptonshire. Among her competitors have been notable figures such as Kettering’s "Rapid" Ricky Evans and the father-son duo James and Josh Richardson, also hailing from Rushden. These encounters have certainly contributed to her development and prepared her for the larger stage that awaits her in Gibraltar.Natural Talent
One of the most astonishing aspects of Rooksby's journey is her minimal practice routine. The teenager candidly admits that she "doesn't practise much" and has never dedicated time to honing her skills at home. Despite this, her performances reflect a level of skill and composure that many seasoned players would envy. This raw talent has been a significant factor in her rapid ascension within the sport.Family Pride
Lexi-Jayne's father, Mick Rooksby, expressed immense pride in his daughter’s achievements. Reflecting on the past two years of her unexpected rise, he shared moments of emotional significance."When she first started playing, there was no inkling of what she was going to be like, so when she qualified, there were a few tears," Mick said. "To only do minimal practice and be as good as she is—you don't really hear those kinds of stories."
The family’s pride is palpable, a testament to Lexi-Jayne’s sheer talent and the support she has received from her loved ones.Anticipating the Championship
As she prepares for the JDC World Youth Championship, Lexi-Jayne maintains a humble and realistic outlook."I am pleased to qualify; I didn't think I was going to get as far as I did," she shared. "I hope I do well, but there's going to be good people there. I'll try my best."
Her words reflect not only her grounded attitude but also a quiet determination to excel. The upcoming competition in Gibraltar will test her abilities against some of the best young talents in the world, and Rooksby seems ready to embrace the challenge.