2006 Ó DFA - All rights reserved.
Please Read And Take Benefit Of The Opportunities Available To Participate In This Wonderful Game, From Social To International Level Depending On Your Aspirations And Proficiency.
It took the best part of 400 years for darts to become an accepted game or pastime throughout the world. But it has taken only twenty years for that game to be transformed into an international sport with players and followers numbered by millions.
The Game
Darts is a very rewarding and challenging game, which probably makes it so addictive. There is the obvious physical challenge of hitting the various spots on the board that you are trying to hit, but the game is very mentally challenging as well. In 501, the classic English dart game, the object is to reduce your score from 501 to precisely zero in as few darts as possible finishing on a double (outer ring on the board). The player, therefore, must constantly use mental mathematics to calculate the score remaining and to decide what sequences of shots to try for in order to get down in as few darts as possible to a score where he or she can "peg out." Small wonder the minds of experienced players work almost like computers when it comes to numbers.
Who Plays Darts
One of the most attractive features of the game of darts is that people of different ages and sexes can compete against each other on equal terms. You don't need to possess any particular skill, strength or endurance to play darts. The game is easy to learn and it's very inexpensive. You don't have to invest money in lessons, you don't need a special court or area in which to play the game, you don't need a special uniform. You can buy a good set of darts for $30.00, and they will last you for years. You can play the game at home or in a darts venue for free. Probably best of all, darts is one of the most sociable of games which can be played by the whole family. Even if one does not become a skilled player, there is still a great deal on enjoyment to be derived from the game. There is the fellowship, the relaxation, the competition, the fun, the challenge. When you can get all of that out of a sport, winning is not everything, its only an added bonus.
Coaching
The Darts Federation of Australia (DFA) is the national body overseeing the sport of darts in Australia. The DFA has administered the sport professionally, and in 1989 developed and introduced the first Coaching Scheme for the sport of darts in the World. Now the DFA has accredited coaches all over Australia. Most States appointed a Coaching Director in 1992 and under their direction; most of the coaches working under them are focusing on junior players.
AFTER SCHOOL COACHING: Each States have affiliated Darts Associations from all over their state, which conduct junior darts and have coaches on hand to improve players skills. Sessions are usually held between 4.00pm and 8.00pm. on weekdays with the emphasis on specialised one on one coaching. Usually there is a minimal cost to these sessions. All coaches are accredited.
Contact (07) 4928 8895 for more information.
Opportunities in the Sport
TALENTED PLAYER PROGRAMS: All States and Territories under the DFA Banner are constantly looking for talented players with the endeavour of developing their game further through specialized coaching. Players can join local clubs which will open the doors for opportunities to progress to the highest possible level in the sport.
To identify talent the following opportunities are accessible: (Girl's, Boy's, Ladies and Men's)
- Club Championships
- Open Junior Tournaments
- Aged State Championships - Singles, Pairs, Fours.
- Under 18 State Team
- Australian Youth Masters
- Australian Youth Team
- State Team
- Australian National Team
Coaching Accreditation
COACHING COURSES: The DFA and State Bodies are always looking for new coaches to instruct the increasing numbers of junior players participating in this great sport. Both run accredited courses for coaches from the novice to a state coach. These are usually conducted twice a year, along with several coaching workshops annually. These courses are not restricted to the metropolitan area. For more information contact the DFA National Coaching Director.
Services and Programs Available
PLAYING: Due to the many and varied programs, too many to mention here, young players aged from 8-18 years are provided with playing opportunities throughout the states, from 'Hot Shots' through to the more serious game of 501. If you are interested and would like to play darts, please ring the DFA on (07) 4928 8895 and they can direct you to coaches that can get you playing as soon as possible.
A number of competitions are conducted in schools. Schools wanting more information on these programs can contact the DFA.
Resources Available
RESOURCES: The DFA has numerous videos, books, articles etc available for loan to assist coaches and teachers. The DFA has dart boards (including the Hot Shot Dart Board), soft tip and steel tipped darts available for hire. Points and Tips (Coaching magazine printed quarterly) is available on subscription.
Other Services
The DFA also has available Guest Presenters, Dinner Speakers, and Exhibition Players and videos.