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 1997 ADO PRESS RELEASES

 

 
ADO PRESS RELEASES

December 19, 1997 - Press Release

Contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680

NATIONAL YOUTH CHAMPION TAKES JOINT 3RD AT MASTERS

Anaheim, CA: Tullahoma, Tenn. native and 1997 national youth champion Kevin Holden took London by storm,ending up the only representative from outsideEngland in the top four of the World Youth Masters. Holden played his semi-final match on stage, where he was defeated by England's Leon Womack by a score of 3-0. Though admitting some first-time jitters in the event, Holden said it only took him about three darts to settle down and throw his darts. "I knew the Brits were born and raised playing darts," he said, "but I still had confidence in myself".

He was presented a medal on stage by representatives of the British Darts Organization for his efforts, and later told other members of the American team that he plans to return next year, which will be his final year of eligibility. Holden earned his trip to the U.S. Youth Championship through Area IV playoffs, where 29 youths took part. He also earned $1,500 in scholarship money as a result of his U.S. title.

The 1998 Youth playoffs leading to the National Championship in Las Vegas next August are scheduled as follows:Association deadline is May 31 Area Youth Playoffs: June 19-21 National Finals: August 14. Those interested in taking part should contact their Area Manager or Area Youth Coordinator for further details.

Youth managers are: Nacho Avila in Area II, Charles McDonald in Area IV, Marcy Regan in Area V and Linda Stockman in Area VI. the National Youth Manager is Savannah, Georgia resident Kerry Buchan, who can be reached at 912-351-0162 for further information.Youth players must be under the age of 18 as of December 1, 1998 to qualify for the World Youth Masters. While the ADO currently does not have a program for youth 18-20, the board plans to add a bracket for that age group in the near future.

December 9, 1997

Contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680

AUSTRALIA'S HUNT, ENGLAND'S SOLOMONS TAKE WORLD MASTERS TITLES

ADO ANNOUNCES 1998 PLAYOFF PROGRAM DATES

 Anaheim, CA Australia's Graham Hunt, veteran World Cup team member and two-time Australian Singles Champion, captured the Winmau World Masters title last weekend, defeating England's Ronnie Baxter in the final for the title. On the women's side, it was England's Mandy Solomons who came away with the title after defeating Wales' Sandra Greatbatch in the final match. Semi-finalists were Les Delderfield and Ted Hankey, both of England for the men, and Crissy Howat of England and Francis Hoenselaar of the Netherlands.

America's team of Roger Carter, Lyle Herrick, Glenn Silva, Davis Snider, Stacy Bromberg, Leigh Dalager, Nancy Huntoon, Julie Nicoll (sponsored by Accudart) and youth champion Kevin Holden ran up against tough competition early on in the event. Huntoon had the best showing, finishing in the final 16 in a field of approximately 64. Both Carter and Herrick finished in the final 32 in a field of approximately 150 top national players. Youth results have not yet been received. The Winmau World Masters attracts top-notch talent from around the globe each December in London. Next month, the prestigious Embassy World Professional Championships will be contested. Roger Carter will once again represent the U.S. in this invitational world event. Carter placed in the final eight of the event last January.***

The 1998 playoff schedule for Internationals (formerly Pacific Cup), All-Stars, Youth, Masters and Cricket have been announced. There are two date changes. One involves the youth, whose area playoffs have been moved to June instead of July to enable finalists to more easily book air travel and hotel rooms for the August events. The other is the Masters, whose regionals have been moved to July to better accommodate those leagues that do not conduct league activities in the summer and to allow more time to arrange travel to national finals in the early fall. The schedule is as follows:

ADO Internationals (formerly Pacific Cup):

  • Association deadline Feb. 8
  • Regional playoffs March 6-8
  • National Finals at Blueberry Hill in St. Louis April 24.

All-Stars:

  • Association deadline April 12
  • Regional playoffs May 8-10
  • East-West Challenge Aug. 14, Las Vegas.

Masters:

  • Association deadline June 14
  • Regional playoffs July 10-12
  • National Finals: TBA (Sept. time frame)

Cricket Singles:

  • Association deadline Oct. 4
  • Regional playoffs Nov. 6-8
  • National Finals TBA (Jan. 1999)

National Finals for the 1997 Cricket Singles will be held at the Bluebonnet Open in Houston in Jan., 1998.

The ADO board thanks its members for continued support of the playoff program during the past two years as traditional playoff dates were adjusted to allow for a fourth event to be added each year (cricket singles). Now that the adjustments are complete with the 1998 calendar, the board hopes to maintain the same weekends for playoffs in future years. Tournament hosts interested in hosting national finals should contact their Area Manager for detailed requirements.For information, contact, Sandi Cain (714)497-2680

 

November 23, 1997- Press Release

Contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680

BLUEBERRY HILL TO HOST ADO INTERNATIONALS

Anaheim, CA The ADO International playoff (formerly Pacific Cup) finals will be contested in conjunction with the 26th Blueberry Hill Open on April 24,1998. As announced Oct. 29, the Pacific Cup has been disbanded by vote of theWorld Darts Federation and will be combined with the Asia Cup beginning in the year 2000. For 1998, the ADO will stage an International Playoff whose winners will receive a trip to the Canadian Open in June. The 1999 event will be chosen at a later date. Beginning in 2000, the International Playoff will be held to choose representatives for the Asia/Pacific Cup in even-numbered years and for a rotating international event in odd-numbered years. For the 1998 International Playoffs, associations must choose their representatives for the regionals by Feb. 8. Association reps should contact their regional directors for information concerning the regional playoffs, currently scheduled for early March.

***

The following tournaments have been accepted for World Darts Federation ranking for 1998:

Virginia Beach Dart Classic ($20,000) March 13-15; the North American Open($45,000) Aug. 14-16; and the Witch City Open ($30,000) Nov. 13-15. Singles events at those tournaments will carry world ranking points. Currently, ADO members Roger Carter (No. 24) and Stacy Bromberg (No. 18) are the only world-ranked players. The ADO was forced to give up world-ranked tournaments because of legalities that existed during the now-settled dispute between the British Darts Organization and members of the PDC (formerly WDC). The addition of these events once again gives top players a chance to attain world ranking during play in their home country, and gives other players the opportunity to mingle with and learn from additional world-class players sure to attend these events.

***

Fourth quarter Double Eagles and the 1998 Interim Calendar should be delivered to clubs within the next two weeks. Clubs are reminded that, to be on the new, full-year calendar that will run from April 1-March 31,1999,their 1998 membership dues must be paid and calendar information submitted in writing to the ADO office by Feb. 1, 1998. The Interim Calendar will cover tournaments from Jan. 1-Mar. 31, 1998 as well as any other 1998 tournaments hosted by clubs who filed tournament information and paid their 1998 dues by Nov. 10. The Interim Calendar is being issued for 1998 as a one-time publication that will enable the organization to change to a new calendar schedule more in keeping with the needs of the member clubs and to betterserve tournament hosts with events scheduled in the first quarter of theyear.

All clubs are reminded that membership expires yearly on Dec. 31 (except for newly organized clubs that joined the organization in the fourth quarter of this year), and are urged to renew effective Jan. 1.

 

November 8, 1997 - Press Release

Contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680

ADO OFFERS $10,000 PRIZE AT CRICKET NATIONALS

Anaheim, CA The American Darts Organization‚ has just concluded negotiations that will allow it to offer a $10,000 prize to the first person to shoot a perfect cricket game during the Cricket National Finals at the Bluebonnet Classic in Houston next January. The prize is the first of its type to be offered by the ADO, though the organization hopes to offer a similar prize for the National Championships in August.

The addition of a major prize for a perfect game also adds to the allure for television coverage of the event and adds value for players competing in the cricket playoff program. Because of the success and popularity of the game of cricket in the U.S.,there is talk of it being added to championship formats in Australia, leading to the possibility of international cricket championships in the future. A prize purse such as the one to be offered for this Cricket National Championship is likely to be alluring to future participants.

***

Correction: The press release issued on Oct. 29 contained an error. On the subject of entry fees for regionals, it should have said that the fee will be $110 per player, or $880 per region to advance a player to the national level. This increase will take effect for playoffs that begin in 1998 and is guaranteed to remain the same at least through 1999.

***

In response to player requests, the ADO board will make every effort to have at least one member of the Executive present at each national playoff.Players are reminded, however, that most of the Executive Board is employed outside the ADO as well, and may not always be available to attend. In those cases, there will still be one or more Area Managers present to direct the national playoffs. CFO Bob Ditzler has been designated to attend the Cricket National Finals in Houston.

 

October 30,1997 - Press Release

Contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680

ADO BOARD INSTITUTES CHANGES FOR 1998

 Anaheim, CA In addition to the new tournament calendar format previously announced that will see the calendar year shift to April 1 through March 31with an interim calendar issued for the first quarter of 1998, the ADO board considered and adopted several other changes for 1998 at its annual fall meeting held Oct. 24--26 in Gulfport, Miss. A summary of the changes follows.

1) In response to player and club input, the ADO has reconsidered its increase in fees for Regional Playoffs. As a compromise to the many who saida $25 increase was a burden, the board rescinded its previous action and instead will raise regional fees to $900 per region to advance one player instead of the current $800. This amounts to $110 per player. In addition, expense money for players advancing to nationals will remain at $150. These fees will remain in effect through 1999.

2) The board also responded to concerns of Regional Directors and Area Managers in regard to 'float' money -- those funds collected above the amount required to advance a player from a regional. In the past, all float money not used by the end of the calendar year by an Area could not be carried over to the new year. In an effort to allow more flexibility for regionals during the first quarter of the year, the board approved a change that will allow 'float' money to carry through the first quarter of the following calendar year (March 31).

3) In reviewing problems associated with four tournaments that did not meet sanctioning contracts during the past year, the board found the Default Policy to be lacking in several areas and established a committee to review and revise this policy. Because the policy is under review, all actions against tournament hosts who had defaulted in the past year (Nov. 1, 1996 forward) were waived. However, should any of these hosts wish to reapply for tournament sanctioning, absolute proof of funds in the bank to cover the tournament purse will be required for sanctioning to be considered.

4) At the recent meeting of the World Darts Federation, the Pacific Cup, which had been held on nine previous occasions, was disbanded due to dwindling interest. Beginning in the year 2000, there will be a combined Asia/Pacific Cup to take its place. In the interim, the ADO will replace Pacific Cup playoffs with the ADO Internationals, which will send two men and two women (the same as for Pacific Cup) each year to a different international event. For 1998, the team will receive a trip, entry fees and a team shirt and compete in the Canadian Open in June. The 1999 international event will be chosen at a later date. Beginning in the year 2000, the ADO International team will compete in the combined Asia/Pacific Cup in even-numbered years and in another event of the ADO's choosing in odd-numbered years. Full details of this program will be available in the upcoming issue of the Double Eagle.

 

October 13, 1997 - Press Release

Contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680

WOMEN BRING HOME THE GOLD FROM WORLD CUP

 Anaheim, CA The Women's World Cup team, sponsored by Accudart and consistingof world-ranked No. 9 Stacy Bromberg and national teammate Lori Verrier brought home the gold from Perth, Australia, edging out second-place New Zealand by winning the Women's Pairs in a field of 27 teams. The team bested a fine Filipino team 4-2 in the final to claim the cup for America once again. Only three countries have ever won the Women's World Cup - America, England and New Zealand. America and England each now have three victories,while New Zealand has two. New Zealand's Noeline Gear claimed the Women's Singles title over Northern Ireland's Denise Cassidy, but the win left them one shy of victory in overall points. Bromberg and Verrier triumphed while averaging 23.44 and 19.46 points per dart respectively.

The Accudart-sponsored men's team of Roger Carter, Paul Lim, Jason Lucas and Jim Widmayer, finished in the eleventh spot in a field of 26 teams. The team finished in the final 8 of the team event (contested as single matches, best of 17), and Carter finished in the same spot in the singles, as well as stacking up the most individual wins, the highest average (27.62), the most out shots and the most score of 100 or more.

The World Cup championship went again to Wales, as it did in 1993 in Las Vegas. Men's singles gold medal winner was Raymond Barneveld of the Netherlands; silver medalist was Peter Hinkley of Australia. The Netherlands last claimed the singles title in 1993 when Roland Scholten took home the gold.

The World Cup, which is contested semi-annually, will next be held in Durban, South Africa in 1999, followed by the 2001 World Cup XIII in England.

In other international news, the U.S. will send the following players to the Masters in London in December: Stacy Bromberg, Leigh Dalager, Nancy Huntoon,Roger Carter, Lyle Herrick, Glenn Silva and Davis Snider. Herrick, Carter and Bromberg have competed previously in the event. Silva last represented the U.S. in the 1995 World Cup in Basel, Switzerland. Dalager, Snider and Huntoon will be making their first international appearance for the U.S. in this event, as will National Youth Champion Kevin Holden.

 

September 19, 1997 - Press Release

For information, contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680 or Katie Harris (714) 254-0212

ADO ISSUES CLARIFICATION ON WORLD CUP

Anaheim, CA The American Darts Organization‚ wishes to clarify the front page article in the summer 1997 issue of the Double Eagle concerning the World Cup team. The article led some readers to incorrectly believe that Accudart was sponsoring only the Womenís World Cup team, when it fact, the company is sponsoring the entire World Cup team.

In addition, the article should have stated the team will be managed by Julie Nicoll representing Accudart and Sandi Cain representing the ADO. The terms "captain" and "manager" are often used interchangeably, creating some unintentional confusion about the role. Team managers share the duties of supporting the team throughout the World Cup and of representing our country on an international level.

The American Darts Organization‚ apologizes for any confusion the article may have created among our readers. We in no way intended any slight to our sponsor. This is the first time that a World Cup team has been sponsored, and it is hoped the darting community will recognize the efforts put forth by Accudart to sponsor this team.

 

September 11,1997 - Press Release

Contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680

CRICKET PURSE RAISED; CALENDAR REVAMPED

 

Anaheim, CA Due to the positive response to the first cricket singles championships conducted last spring and won by Marilyn Popp and Paul Lim, the ADO Board of Directors has voted to increase the purse for the second event by 50%. Cricket singles playoffs will be conducted again this fall and then will remain a yearly event in the fall of each year. Association playoff deadline for this fall's cricket singles is October 5, with entry fees due to regional directors by Oct. 24. Regionals are scheduled for the weekend of November 7-9. Unless prior arrangements have been made with Regional Directors, this date is firm. The National Championships will be held in conjunction with the Bluebonnet Classic in Houston in January 1998.

Total purse for the cricket championships will be $3,600, evenly split between men and women. First place in each will receive $600; second place $400; joint third $200 (each) and 5-8 $100 each. These payouts are in addition to the trip to Houston and associated expense money. Should the cricket singles show positive growth, the board will again evaluate the payout for the finals to be held in 1999.

The board hopes to be able to offer an additional prize for a perfect cricket game; however, details are not confirmed at this time.

***

At its August meeting, the ADO board discussed concerns and logistics revolving around the yearly tournament calendar. The concerns included clubs that list a tournament for the coming year and then don't join, and/or don't sanction the event. The logistics concerned being able to better serve tournaments held in the first quarter of the year by getting calendars out to clubs earlier.

As a result of the discussions, the board will test a new approach for the tournament calendar. For next year, this means an interim calendar will be issued for the first quarter of 1998. The full calendar will then run from April 1, 1998 through March 31, 1999. For those wishing to be included on the interim -- or first quarter -- calendar, dues for 1998 and the tournament scheduling form must be received in the office by November 10. Other clubs wishing to list tournaments scheduled for April 1-December 31 1998 may also be included on the interim calendar if tournament information and dues are received by November 10.

To be included on the full calendar for April 1 1998 through March 31, 1999, clubs must have tournament information and dues to the office no later than February 1. This plan will be in effect for one year during the transition to a new calendar schedule. The board hopes it will also help those clubs whose own calendar years create logistical problems in scheduling and sending in fees during the month of December.

Calendar forms are being sent to clubs this week. Anyone with questions should contact their Area Manager or the ADO office. Sponsorship opportunities are available for both calendars this year.

***

For 1995 and 1996 regional winners, it has been a long wait for awards. For that, the board apologizes and thanks those who have awards coming and have waiting patiently for them. A negative cash flow resulting in a net loss of approximately $7000 (much of it in uncollectable NSF checks) over those two years was responsible for the delay. Awards for both years have been ordered and are expected to ship before the end of the year. First place winners will receive shirts, while second and third place winners will receive engraved glass mugs. Anyone who placed in the top three in their region during 1995 or 1996 and has moved should contact the ADO office with updated address information, or send e-mail to Sandi Cain at Scainado@aol.com.

 

September 7, 1997 - Press Release

For information, contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680 or Katie Harris (714) 254-0212

ADO ISSUES STATEMENT
IN RESPONSE TO BULL'S EYE NEWS COMMENTARY

Anaheim,CA The American Darts Organization‚ strongly objects to the misleading information published as an ìeditorís noteî to Mark Goodwinís

letter in the September issue of Bullís Eye News. In their apparent aspiration to be the tabloid press for darts, the management of Bullís Eye News not only chose to run a letter instead of news under ADO Newsline, but did yet another disservice to the darting public by errors of fact and omission in their own comments accompanying the letter as follows:

Error of fact: BEN states that no response was received to Mr. Goodwinís letter. Mr. Goodwin, however, verified that he received an answer in July via a recorded phone message this past weekend. (The letter was written July 5, two days after receipt of his letter, and copied to BEN and the Area Manager).

Errors of omission: Though one member of the BEN staff is a former executive of the ADO, BEN conveniently chose to publish the income for the 1995 All-Star program without publishing related expenses. The total income that year for all playoffs was $132,990. The expenses, however, totaled $116,174.32 in 1995. An additional $14,296.84 in 1995 playoff expenses were actually paid in 1996 and reflected in that financial report (which appears in the current issue of Double Eagle due to arrive to members any day). That brings the total expense for 1995 playoffs to $130,471.16 -- leaving only $2,518.84 in ìprofit.î for that year. The ìprofitî from the playoff system (which includes all playoff events) is used to defray administrative costs of the organization, including (but not limited to), insurance, rent, utilities, hourly help, workersí compensation, taxes and office supplies.)

The fact that this fee has never been raised in 20 years was also conveniently omitted.

ADO operating revenue has declined by 11% since 1994, while playoff costs have risen 9% for the same period, representing a net change of 20% in revenue. The fee increase passed by the Board of Directors is a 25% increase, with an accompanying 15% increase in expense money, reaping a net fee increase of 10% for regional playoffs. The Board of Directors has considered this move for the past two years and studied numerous variables in consideration of the effect on the playoff system. To state that any board member would willfully ignore the concerns of a player on such a major issue is nothing short of shoddy journalism.

Further action on this issue is pending. Those wishing to receive the full text of the ADOís response to Mr. Goodwin may do so by contacting the ADO office, the above phone number, or by submitting an e-mail request to Scainado@aol.com.

 

August 2, 1997 - Press Release

For information, contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680 or Katie Harris (714) 254-0212

FREQUENT DARTERS PREFER STEEL TIP

Anaheim, CA In a members survey of Points Plus participants, 80% indicated they prefer steel tip darts. In addition, these frequent darters play in an average of eight tournaments per year and regularly take part in darting activities an average of three times per week.

When it comes to game preference, 50% say cricket is their first choice. And, a surprising 49% say that their favorite tournament game is singles. These darters also practice in a public setting an average of 2.5 times per week.

Points Plus members are scattered over 15 states across the country. The program was begun in 1995 to reward frequent darters for simply participating in the sport of darts, even if they never win. Members earn points for serving as an officer of a local club, as ADO representative, serving on a tournament committee and participating in ADO playoffs. Members can also earn points by staying at tournament host hotels, or by using ADO affinity plans such as Alamo Rent a Car or the Quest program. ADO members in good standing may join Points Plus by obtaining an application from the ADO office, completing the questionnaire and returning it with a one-time $2 administrative fee. Points Plus will distribute its first list of points rewards at the end of this year.

***

World Cup - Perth, Australia

For the first time since 1993, the ADO will be able to select its World Cup team from all ADO members in good standing. The settlement between the BDO and professional players of the WDC (soon to be PDC) removes the following ADO players from the ineligible list: Steve Brown, Larry Butler, Sean Downs, Dave Kelly, Paul Lim, Jason Lucas, Tony Payne, Jerry Umberger, Gerald Verrier, Jim Watkins, Whit Whitley. While all the aforementioned players were members in good standing of the ADO throughout the controversy, a World Darts Federation rule made them ineligible for play in WDF events.

The World Cup will be contested in Perth, Australia on October 2, 3 and 4. The American team will be sponsored in part by Accudart, and will be presented just prior to the start of the North American Open on August 15.

 

July 13, 1997-Press Release

Contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680 or Katie Harris (714) 254-0212

DART SETTLEMENT TIGHTENS WORLD CUP RACE
Masters Finals in New York

Anaheim, CA: The recent settlement between the WDC and BDO in England came more quickly than anticipated and has brought a sense of relief to the international dart community. In addition, this means that all darters can once again compete on the same playing field without fear of reprisal. And, for Americans, it means that the race for the World Cup team has tightened, as those previously ineligible to represent the U.S. in Perth may once again do so. The World Cup team will be announced at the completion of the National Championships in Las Vegas next month.

The ADO is pleased that all its members are once again able to participate at a level they have earned, and thanks those players who were ineligible due to their participation in WDC events for their patience and understanding during trying times. The board of directors hopes that everyone in the darting community has learned from this experience and that we can all move forward in promoting the sport we love.

***

Players with urgent business can e-mail the ADO executive via the following: President Sandi Cain: scainado@aol.com; Vice President Jim Dickinson: adogs2@scescape.com; CFO Bob Ditzler: bdwill@juno.com. The ADO office will have e-mail in the near future as well. Please check with your regional directors and area managers for e-mail addresses. The ADO will publish those addresses as we receive them.

***

In response to concerns about the ADO default policy and rules for those representing the ADO at national playoffs, the board of directors will address clarifications to those items at its abbreviated meeting in Las Vegas in August. While only urgent business is addressed in this four-hour session, anyone with such business to be brought to the board is urged to contact their Area Manager as soon as possible.

***

The Masters national finals will be held at the Empire State Challenge Sept. 19-21. Regional finals were held this past weekend for most regions, and final numbers will be announced when results are received.

 

 

June 21, 1997-Press Release

Contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680 or Katie Harris (714) 254-0212

ALL STARS READY TO COMPETE

Anaheim, CA: The annual East-West All-Star duel will be contested among 86 all-star finalists at the Aladdin Hotel in Las Vegas, prior to the start of the North American Open. Those with the highest pont-per-dart averages during the competition will be seeded into the National Championships, along with the nine members of the National Team to determine the 1997 National Champions. The annual National youth Championship will be contested at the the same time as the East-West All-Stars, with all finalists earning scholarship awards and the winner earning a spot on the ADO Masters finalists earning scholarship awards and the winner earning a spot on the ADO Masters team to compete in London in December. For full details on August activities, contact an ADO board member or the ADO office at (714) 254-0212.

The American Darts Organization is pleased to announce Accudart as a sponsorof the 1997 World Cup team that will travel to Perth in October. The team will be announced at the conclusion of the National Championships on August 15 in Las Vegas. For the first time, the team members will be determined by their best 12 point finishes earned between August 1, 1996 and July 31, 1997. Representatives of Accudart will be on hand in Las Vegas to present the team. Accudart sponsors on a regular basis two of the current top contenders for the team.

 

June 7, 1997-Press Release

Contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680 or Katie Harris (714) 254-0212

DARTOID JOINS DOUBLE EAGLE
Pre-Paid Phone Cards On The Line

Anaheim, CA: Paul Seigel, the wandering darts minstrel who has gained notoriety with his articles in Bull's Eye News as "Dartoid" will begin appearing in the Doubles Eagle on a space-available basis beginning with the next issue. Dartoid adds a light touch to the quarterly newspaper and helps those with the craving for travel to build a repertoire of tested dart locations around the world.

Member clubs each received a phone card with their membership packets earlier this year. The card provides 120 minutes of unrestricted usage for $25 and averages $.19 per minute of phone time. This is a test program for the American Darts Organization® If enough cards are activated, the ADO will consider purchasing these with the ADO logo and be able to program updated messages that members using the cards would hear each time they use the card. In order to proceed, however, the test program must be a success. To date, response has been weak, and clubs are urged to take advantage of this price break that could lead to better communication within the organization.

The most recent edition of "Fun*dart*men*tals" by Clevelander Frank Pratt contains testimonial from the ADO and an individual membership application that readers can use to join the organization. It is hoped that this publicity will assist in bringing new members into the ADO.

 

May 20, 1997-Press Release

Contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680 or Katie Harris (714) 254-0212

NEW SAFETY DATA GOOD NEWS FOR DARTS

Anaheim, CA: Updated information from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is good news for darters, as it reveals a decrease in the number of reported injuries due to darts since the last results were published in 1992.

Only 43 injuries due to darts were reported either directly to the CPSC or picked up by that organization's electronic surveillance of injuries treated during hospital visits from January 1994 through April, 1997. This represents only 1.08 injuries per year nationwide, or .9 per state in that period of time. It also represents an injury rate of only .02 per state per month - a figure that should serve to reassure insurance companies of the safety of the sport of darts. What's more, 60% of the reported injuries were to individuals under the age of 18 and occurred at home. Amoung adult injuries, 51% occurred at home. Only 14% occurred in a "public place" - a categorization that would include pubs. And only 2% were directly related to the use of alcohol. Another 14% of the reported injuries took place when the individuals used darts in a manner for which they were not intended, such as chewing on the dart or putting it in the nose or ear. In addition, 7% occurred as a result of a board falling off the wall and 7% occurred while using soft tip darts.

Of the reported injuries, the average severity ranked 2.2 on a scale of 8. None of the injuries required treatment beyond "treated and released" or "examined and released". Five injuries (12%) were of the muscular variety, with patients citing sprains, strains and pulls. Only five (12%) involved actual puncture wounds, and only two of those occurred in a bar.

The fact that 60% of the total injuries were to minors and occurred at home points to the fact that there is still a pressing need for teaching proper handling and participation in darts to youth participants - a goal of the youth program sponsored by the American Darts Organization.®

A recent news brief in U.S. News & World Report cited the American Darts Organization® as an organization of players who "approach the game with the sobriety of professionals", a refreshing change from the oft-cited pub aspect of the sport. Still, even this news brief cited steel tip darts as the "more dangerous" variety. The above data from the CPSC should go a long way to dispel such misconceptions across the country. In a poll of pub owners involved with darts in the early '90s, the ADO could find no dart-related claims that had ever been filed as a result of an on-site injury. The American Darts Organization® welcomes input from pub owners converning this issue so that it may continue to emphasize the safety statistics of the sport.

 

May 3, 1997-Press Release

Contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680 or Katie Harris (714) 254-0212

BUSY SUMMER AHEAD FOR ADO MEMBERS

Anaheim, CA: With the Cricket National Championships just complete, and the All-Star regional qualifiers scheduled for May 9-11, ADO member clubs will have to hustle to make certain that youth and masters qualifiers are completed on schedule. The All-Star regionals will be the first one to be conducted under the newly passed format rule: groups of 12 or less will play a straight round robin while groups of 13 or more will play a modified round robin.

Local youth qualifiers are scheduled to be complete by June 22, with Area playoffs scheduled for July 18-20. The location for each Area youth playoff will be published in the upcoming issue of the Double Eagle, due out in June. Local qualifiers for the Masters are scheduled to be complete by June 15, with Regionals scheduled for July 11-13. Information concerning location for any of these playoffs should be obtained from your Regional Director or Area Manager.

***

Anyone planning to attend the East-West All-Stars, National Youth Championships, the National Championships or the North American Open to Las Vegas is advised to book their flights early. The ADO has been advised by USA Hosts, our official travel agency, that summer flights are filling fast. The above events will be contested at the Aladdin Hotel and Casino, located mid-Strip in Las Vegas within easy walking distance of major attractions. Players will find the Aladdin attractive for tournament participants, as the tournament hall is just steps from the casino and elevators to the rooms.

***

ADO members who plan to visit Perth, Australia to cheer on our World Cup team this fall are also advised to book early, as this is the spring season in Australia that draws tourists to the Perth area for wildflower season. Complete details on the week in Perth are available from Sandi Cain at the above number. World Cup spectators may also wish to stop in Honolulu on the way back from Perth to take part in the Aloha Classic, scheduled for the weekend following World Cup. Honolulu is a frequent stopover for those returning to the States from Australia.

***

The American Darts Organization® is proud to announce that we will be able to send one additional woman to the Masters this year, per agreement with the British Darts Organization. In recent years, we have been invited to send four men and one woman from our playoff system, as well as our Youth Champion and the female North American Open Champion. The additional invitation is for a woman champion from another event. The board will decide the selection criteria for the additional person within the coming month.

 

April 14, 1997-Press Release

Contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680 or Katie Harris (714) 254-0212

ADO PLANS FOR FUTURE AT SEMI-ANNUAL BOARD MEETING

Anaheim, CA: At its first meeting of 1997, the ADO board of directors addressed a number of items important to the future health of the organization. In addition, it began planning for this year's East-West All-Stars in Las Vegas, analyzed the first cricket playoff and looked at proposals for future fund-raising endeavors and incentive playoff programs.

In an effort to provide more diversified advertising opportunities, a rate card for flyer inserts in the Double Eagle will be developed in time for the third issue of 1997 (July 15). In addition, sponsorship programs for Double Eagle features are in the development stage and will be released in the near future.

Organizations wishing to ship Double Eagles to more than one association location should contact the ADO office with their request. Split shipments are permitted, within reason, providing the office has details of the split on file.

In action related to playoffs, and in response to player requests, the board voted that, beginning with All-Star regionals, groups of 12 or less will play a straight round robin. Groups of 13 or more will play the modified round robin format. This is being undertaken in an effort ot reduce the amount of playing time while still giving players the maximum number of matches possible for their investment.

Rising costs have taken their toll on darting activities as well as the general economy. Still, the ADO has been almost infamous in toeing the line on playoff fees. In fact, ever since its inception in 1976, regional entry fees have been $100 per player. In contrast, housing, postage, gas and many other items of daily life have more than doubled in cost in that same time period. With that in mind, the board voted that, beginning in 1998, entry fees for regional playoffs will be raised to $125 per player. In addition, expense money, which has also remained stagnant for many years, will be increased to $175 per player beginning with the Pacific Cup playoffs in 1998.

In an effort to stimulate timely tournament reporting, the board also passed a resolution stating that any club more than 30 days delinquent with a tournament report will not be eligible to send players to any regional unless the delinquent tournament reports are received by the financial deadline for that regional.

 

March 29, 1997-Press Release

Contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680 or Katie Harris (714) 254-0212

FIRST CRICKET SINGLES DRAWS POSITIVE RESPONSE

Anaheim, CA: Twenty-three out of 24 regions of the AMERICAN DARTS ORGANIZATION held playoffs for the first national cricket singles championships in March. A total of 67 finalists (45 men and 22 women) will compete for the cricket singles title in Cleveland prior to that club's Cleveland Extravaganza tournament in May. It is estimated that more than 4,000 members competed on a local level in this event, illustrating the popularity that American cricket has achieved in recent years.

The heaviest participation came from Areas IV and V (both east of the Mississippi). In Area V, two regions sent five players each on to the national championships. Those two regions alone accounted for 81 regional competitors.

National finalists, whose way is paid to Cleveland for the finals, will compete for cash prizes at that venue, which will be contested on Friday, May 2 prior to the start of the Extravaganza.

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East-West All-Star competition deadline for associations is April 13, with regionals scheduled for May 9-11 -- just one week after the cricket finals. These dates represent a schedule shift this year that was made in order to allow the ADO to move to a quarterly schedule of events and to ease airline booking problems that have arisen as airlines improve their profitability at the expense of available low-fare seats. Clubs are urged to contact their Regional Directors as soon as possible after the April deadline to let these officials know how many players to expect in the East-West regionals.

Regional winners in this event proceed directly to the East-West All-Star Challenge in Las Vegas prior to the North American Open, this year to be held at the Aladdin Hotel August 15-17. While the East team has dominated the competition over the years, last year the West was victorious in a hotly contested battle that was decided by just a few points.

 

March 8, 1997-Press Release

Contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680 or Katie Harris (714) 254-0212

CRICKET GETS POSITIVE RESPONSE

ADO hopes to see enthusiam carry over for new quarterly schedule
 

Anaheim, CA: Early reports from Regional Directors concerning the first Cricket Singles playoffs were encouraging from across the country, a good sign in the wake of weak response to the grass-roots Mixed Triples initiated two years ago, but abandoned in 1996. Interest in the Cricket Singles was high all along, and numerous record-breaking point scores and 9-counts are anticipated from the regionals. This should lead up to a truly spectacular exhibition of darts for the Cricket finals in Cleveland in May!

Association representatives should remind their members of the new playoff dates this year. The association deadline for all-stars, traditionally the most popular playoff event, is April 13, while completed by June 15. The new schedule was developed in an effort to meet both the demands of those whose summer dart participation is weak and the desire to establish a quarterly playoff opportunity for members. Correct playoff date information can be found on page 8 of the Double Eagle and in the yearly tournament calendar.

The entry fee for youth contestants has been increased to $35 per player this year. It has long been known that the $25 fee did not come close to covering costs for the youth. However, the ADO is aware of the travel demands some parents meet so youth can compete, and wanted to keep the cost at a reasonable level while generating a bit more income to cover the progra.

The East-West All-Stars will be contested this year on August 15 at the Aladdin Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. The Aladdin was very well received by players from across the country at the Las Vegas Open. The venue is located mid-Strip, within walking distance of many Las Vegas attractions as well as small restaurants and shops. Room rates have not yet been announced.

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Host clubs for tournaments have been reporting difficulty in renegotiating contracts with hotels. Members are advised that there has been a dramatic change in the hotel industry in the past two years. Occupancy rates for hotels nationwide have increased by double-digit percentages. leading to higher room rates and fewer perks available. The national average room rate is approaching $75 per night and occupancy rates nationwide are approaching 80%. This means tournament committees should take a close look at their own list of demands before approaching hotels for negotiations. Instead of asking for comp rooms, for instance, ask if breakfast is included in the room rate. Alternately, check your city for Elks, Eagles, Moose and other non-hotel venues that may be more cost-effective for your event.

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As more Americans acquire cell phones and on-line services, the number of area codes in the the U.S. multiplies daily. Because many of these area codes are unfamiliar to all, please include the state you are calling from when leaving a message or sending a fax to the ADO office or to an ADO board member. This will assist us in updating records and in knowing when to return the call! The ADO Executive can also be reached through vice-president Jim Dickinson at adogs2@scescape.com. he is the only member of the Executive with e-mail at this time. Check with your Area Manager or Regional Director for e-mail contact information before sending messages.

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Please note the following corrections to information in the Winter 1997 Double Eagle:

1) The World Cup team consists of 4 men and 2 women, not 1 woman as listed. In addition, points listed for some of those in contention for World Cup were incorrect. All affected players received letters from the office with their corrected totals.

2) Due to a typographical error, the prices listed for the NADS/ADO board program on page 27 are incorrect. Clubs hosting tournaments are urged to call (508) 384-4100 for correct information.

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Points Plus members have been sent statements of their 1996 points earned as reported. Only those belonging to clubs that paid 1997 dues prior to January 1 showed 1997 credit for membership. Those belonging to clubs joining after January 1 will receive their Points Plus membership points as those clubs are added to the master list. Points Plus members are urged to report changes of address to Sandi Cain. Any member of this program who has not received a 1996 points statement should contact Sandi Cain with current address information.

 

Feb. 22, 1997-Press Release

Contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680 or Katie Harris (714) 254-0212

CRICKET SINGLES UNDER WAY
All-Stars Next 1996 Points Plus Updates Needed

Anaheim, CA: In the wake of a positive response to the first Cricket Singles Championships of the AMERICAN DARTS ORGANIZATION, members are reminded that qualifiers for our most popular program - East/West All-Stars - must be completed by April 13. Regionals are scheduled for the weekend of May 9 - 11. Only members in good standing with the ADO are eligible to participate in the playoff programs; clubs that have not yet paid 1997 dues are urged to do so as soon as possible to avoid missing out on ADO benefits.

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Points updates for 1996 have been sent to all Points Plus members. Those belonging to clubs that joined the ADO for 1997 prior to December 31, 1996 will also see their 1997 membership points included. Those belonging to clubs that pay 1997 dues after March 31 will not receive 1997 membership bonus points. Points Plus members need to mail in updates of their status as board members, officers, tournament committee members, or users or ADO programs (Alamo, Quest, etc.) to receive points for those items. Members must also send in proff of participation in local qualifiers for ADO playoff programs to receive additional points. Some Points Plus members earned almost half the points necessary to qualify for the first rung of rewards (250 points) in the first year. A list of available awards will be published later this year. Clubs wishing to donate membreships or tournament entries to the Points Plus program should contact Sandi Cain.

Points Plus is a program through which grass roots members can earn reward points for participating in the sport of darts through the ADO, whether or not they ever win a match.

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The next meeting of the AMERICAN DARTS ORGANIZATION board of directors will take place April 4 - 6 in Denver, Col. Anyone with items that should be brought up at that meeting should contact their respective Area Managers by March 10 in order to have those items added to the agenda.

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Please note: Correct e-mail for ADO board is c/o Jim Dickinson. Address: adogs2@scescape.net

 

Feb. 9, 1997-Press Release

Contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680 or Katie Harris (714) 254-0212

REVISIONS TO DART BOARD PROGRAM ANNOUNCED
First Cricket Regionals Approaching

Anaheim, CA: North American Dart Supply (NADS), the distribution arm of General Sportcraft, has announced new guidelines for the ADO dartboard program. Under the 1997 program, only Nodor SupraBull and the Unicorn board will be offered at special pricing to ADO-sanctioned tournaments due to lack of demand for other boards. Boards must be ordered three weeks in advance; orders should be faxed to (508) 384-4141. The name of the sanctioned tournament must be included as well as how payment will be made (open credit if account has been established and is in good standing; COD or credit card with number and expiration date. Freight charges must be included; boards will ship from either New Jersey or California. Minimum order is still one case (4 boards). A small price increase has been applied for the first time since 1995. Tournament organizers are urged to support this program as it is one way that sponsors can gauge support of their products.

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Cricket singles regionals will take place March 14-16. Local associations still wanting to qualify players for regionals need to contact their Regional Directors immediately! Regional winners will compete in the national finals at the Cleveland Extravaganza in May.

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The 1997 World Cup team will compete in Perth, Australia in October. This year, team members will be determined by a new method put into place early in 1996. This method looks at the top 12 tournament point finishes for eligible players. Those with the most tournament points through July 31, 1997 will make the team. Regional Points are not included in the new system.

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At this time of year, many requests are received for tournament calendars and club packets. Calendars are shipped to clubs as current year dues are paid; club packets traditionally go out around the end of February. Inquiries concerning information for prospective clubs should be directed to the ADO office at (714) 254-0212 or fax (714) 254-0214.

 

Jan. 21, 1997-Press Release

Contact: Sandi Cain (714) 497-2680 or Katie Harris (714) 254-0212

CARTER MAKES MARK AT EMBASSY

Anaheim, CA: Roger Carter, whose name is becoming a household word to dart players across the US, started 1997 with a bang, advancing to the quarter finals of the prestigious Embassy World Dart Championship in London, England in early January, becoming one of only a handful of Americans to ever advance to this level in the Embassy. Carter, who played in his first Embassy in 1996, returned by invitation of the British Darts Organisation.

In his first appearance last year, Carter was defeated by Northern Ireland's Geoff Wylie in the first round. This time, Carter first upset no. 1-ranked Englander Martin Adams, then polished off no. 14-ranked John Part of Canada before succumbing to second-place finisher Marshall James of Wales, 3-4. Though James is not as well known as other players in the Embassy, he polished off no. 2-ranked Andy fordham before meeting Carter in the quarter finals.

Carter was in world-class company at the final eight, with Belgium's Leo Laurens, The Netherlands' Roland Scholten (the 1993 World Cup men's singles champion) and England's Paul Williams also coming out on the short end that round. Carter picked up £4,400 (about $6,000) for his efforts.

Only one month earlier, Carter finished in the final 16 at the Winmau World Masters also in London. In 1995, he was a semi-finalist in the men's singles at World Cup X in Basel, Switzerland.

Players earn their way into the Embassy either through invitation (24 players worldwide) or through an international playoff held prior to the Winmau World Masters. Each year, the AMERICAN DARTS ORGANIZATION provides a list of leading eligible points players upon request of the British Darts Organisation, which, as hosts of the event, chooses whom to invite.

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The AMERICAN DARTS ORGANIZATION has elected to test market a pre-paid telephone calling card that offers holders a flat 19-cent per minute calling rate any time, any day. Cards will be sent with 1997 member packets to organizations and can be activated for a $25 fee. If enough positive response is received, the program will be expanded later in 1997. Clubs are asked to provide feedback on the card to Area Mangers or to the ADO office.