Gordon Mathers admitted he was ‘lost for words’ after being unveiled as the inaugural winner of the Kyle Anderson Memorial Trophy.
Anderson, a World Series winner at the 2017 Auckland Darts Masters, was a hugely popular figure on the PDC circuit, but he passed away last August at home in Australia.
The specially-commissioned trophy – awarded to the Oceanic player judged to have produced the best performance in August’s World Series of Darts treble-header – was created to remember the late Anderson.
Mathers received the prestigious award for his run to the semi-finals of the PalmerBet Queensland Darts Masters a fortnight ago.
The 40-year-old battled past Fallon Sherrock in the opening round, before claiming a famous victory over World Championship runner-up Michael Smith in the quarter-finals.
Mathers struggled to hold back the tears after being presented with the award by Anderson’s former manager and close friend, Mac Elkin, following the conclusion of the TAB New Zealand Darts Masters.
“I’m lost for words to win this award,” said the Brisbane-born star, who competed on the domestic DartPlayers Australia circuit alongside Anderson.
“Words cannot describe what Kyle and I went through – three years travelling together, so to be the inaugural winner of this award, honestly I cannot speak.
“What Kyle has brought to kids in Australasia is second to none. He loved working with the youngsters – that was his baby.”
The boomerang-shaped trophy - commissioned by Ron Robinson with the base design by Uncle Greg Savin and artwork painted by Uncle Tom Croft - recognises Anderson's Aboriginal heritage, and also features his own palm print.
Anderson made a huge contribution to the sport in his short-lived career, making seven World Championship appearances, representing Australia four times at the PDC World Cup of Darts, and landing two televised nine-dart finishes.