D'Artagnan Potts - 2024 SA Open Champion

17 December 2024

For D'Artagnan "Darty" Potts, winning the 2024 Pelligra SA Open was not just about securing a gold medal—it was a defining moment in his volleyball career.

“Winning the SA Open in 2024 was one of my first gold medals, and it was one of the most exciting moments,” Darty shared. “Being in front of the home crowd and beating such a strong opponent made it even more special.”

Darty’s victory in the final alongside his partner Ben Hood (QLD) came against the formidable duo of Jack Pearse (SA) and 2022 Commonwealth Games Gold Medalist Paul Burnett (WA). Despite having beaten Jack in previous matchups, the competition remained fierce. “Even though I had beat Jack a couple of times, it doesn’t affect our team chemistry now,” Darty said. “Just a bit of banter every now and again.”

The road to victory wasn’t without its challenges. “Weather was an aspect, and the opponent was another,” Darty explained. “You just have to grit your teeth and keep swinging harder than your opponent.” The pressure was especially high in the quarterfinals. “I think playing in a quarterfinal is always the toughest game,” he said. “If you lose, you’re done. If you win, you’re through to finals, so there is a lot of pressure.”

For Darty, playing with Ben was an inspiring experience. “Playing with Ben taught me to just be aggressive,” he revealed. “He’s one of the most competitive people I’ve played with. We just stayed together and fought to the end with one another.”

Reflecting on the tournament’s significance, Darty said, “I thought this win over Jack and Paul meant that no matter how much experience you have, it just depends on which team is better on that day.”

When asked what advice he’d give younger players, Darty emphasised the joy of the sport. “Just enjoy it,” he said. “The wins, the losses—just enjoy playing and the experience. SA Open is one of the best tournaments I’ve played, so just enjoy it while you’re there.”

The home crowd was a major highlight for Darty. “I loved the crowd while I was playing the SA Open,” he said. “Such a cool experience playing in front of my home crowd and being able to play with my family watching was so amazing.”

Darty also shared a memorable moment from the gold medal match. “I think the first point of the match was the most memorable moment for me,” he laughed. “I got roofed by Paul (Burnett) and thought to myself, ‘This is going to be a fun game.’”

Beyond the SA Open, Darty’s volleyball career continues to soar. Though he recently claimed the 2024 Asian Championships title, the magnitude of the achievement is still sinking in. “I think winning the Asian Championships hasn’t really sunk in,” he admitted. “I haven’t realised what an amazing win it was and how big of a moment in my volleyball career it is.”

For Darty, the title of SA Open champion carries immense pride. “I think it’s pretty cool having the title,” he said. “And it’s very cool when I’m out and about and a young player will come up to me and ask me about volleyball. It makes a win so nostalgic for me.”

D'Artagnan Potts’ story is a testament to grit, teamwork, and the love of the game. With milestones like the 2024 SA Open and the Asian Championships under his belt, his volleyball journey is only just beginning.

The 2025 Pelligra SA Open will commence on the 10th of January with finals ending on the 12th. Nominations are open now!

Nominate for the 2025 Pelligra SA Open now

Don't miss this opportunity to play against Darty and other high-level athletes from across Australia - maybe YOU can be the next SA Open Champion.