From Ally Pally to the Showgrounds, darts star Josh Rock admits he tries to get home to watch hometown club Ballymena United when his hectic schedule permits.

Rock, who was born in Antrim but has lived in Broughshane most of his life, grew up supporting the Sky Blues. The 28-year-old is also close friends with some of the volunteers at the Premiership club.

"I am originally from Antrim but I class myself as a Broughshane man as I have lived here longer. I started supporting Ballymena United when I was a young lad," he told Belfast Live.

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"They are my local team so that's how I got into supporting them. And they have supported me in my darts career.

"They have invited me to the Showgrounds a couple of times. I was invited there after winning the World Youth Championships, and I was down and got my photo taken with the team when David Jeffrey was the manager.

"I went to more games when I was younger, but just with my darts career now it is more difficult to get along on a Saturday or whenever.

"I do try but I just don't have the time any longer. It is great to see the support they show me.

"I am friendly with a couple of guys in the club who I chat with regularly."

Rock admits he keeps a close eye on the Irish League season when he is on tour, and he has been following Ballymena's results closely.

Jim Ervin's side soared to the top of the table earlier in the season following a stellar unbeaten run, but their results have tapered off in recent weeks to leave the club sitting eighth in the standings.

"They had a really good start to the season, but things have dropped off a bit. They have gone off the boil a bit, and I don't know what's happened," Rock said.

"They just need a kick up the backside to do a bit better. We were flying at the start of the season, which was a million miles from last season's relegation battle.

"Things have dropped off, and things don't seem right at the minute. Hopefully they can pick up but the signs haven't been too positive recently.

"But we will keep the faith."

Josh Rock was speaking to Belfast Live as he announced a multi-year deal with world-leading darts manufacturer Target Darts. To explore the full ‘Rocky’ range, please visit: https://www.target-darts.co.uk/players/josh-rock-products

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