The PDPA are delighted to announce the appointment of Chris Murphy as Communications Manager on an initially temporary basis during the COVID-19 crisis.

Murphy brings with him a wealth of experience, having worked in professional darts for the last decade. The 33-year-old PDC.TV commentator is a former press officer and content manager for MODUS Sports Management and their players, including world number one Michael van Gerwen.

A graduate from the University of Huddersfield at a BA Hons in Sports Journalism, Murphy now also has a prominent role in the education department for Sporting Chance – an official partner of the PDPA, providing mental health and emotional wellbeing services for members.

“I’m proud and grateful to be joining the PDPA team,” said Murphy, whose position will primarily involve media and public relations operations. “I’m looking forward to combining my professional experience with my passions for both darts and welfare.

“In current uncertain times it is more important than ever that the players know they have support from their association and I will be helping to raise awareness to both the public and, most importantly, the players of the important assistance that the PDPA continues to provide.

“The recently announced PDPA Hardship and Emergency Funds have been a good example of the proactiveness of the organisation and the great work that they do, which often goes under the radar. “We will collectively work to ensure that every PDPA member is fully aware of the wide range of support systems available throughout the coronavirus crisis and beyond.”

Alan Warriner-Little, CEO of the PDPA said: “Having Chris as part of the PDPA team during this unprecedented period in our sport will be invaluable. “His experience in media and more recently wellbeing is in no doubt and fresh ideas are always welcome so we look forward to working with Chris for further benefit to our members.”

PDPA Chairman Peter Manley added: “The PDPA have always followed Chris Murphy’s career, he has worked within darts for a number of years and often deputises for the PDC. “Now involved with Sporting Chance it is our pleasure to give Chris the opportunity to promote the PDPA to our members and the outside world throughout the Covid-19 crisis and hopefully beyond.”

More information and advice for PDPA members around COVID-19 is available at www.pdpa.co.uk For more information on this press release or any media or public relations enquiries please e-mail chris@pdpa.co.uk