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Dear BEN,
Doreen, I have seen the “evil side” of several dart players, and I know most of
them personally. It does not matter what someone thinks of your behavior, it is how you react to the comments made by the “upper level” players. I, for one,
have gotten in your butt about some things I have seen you do, but at the same time, I have seen you be graceful and courteous on and off the oche. It is six
of one and half a dozen of the other. No one is perfect at all times, and if they are, then their battery will run out of juice in due time.
I learned a hard lesson in Chicago at the Windy City Open some years ago. I missed 15 darts
at a double, (imagine that), and lost the match. On my way to the room, I slapped the back of a chair and it flipped backwards barely missing an innocent lady
sitting at a table. My apologizing was accepted by her, but not by myself. At that point, I learned to take my anger out in the room. Man, I can beat the hell
of a room.
Some people have complimented me on my behavior, but trust me, they do not see what goes on
behind the scenes. I am glad for that. There are so many top players that have temper tantrums in the dart hall. Not everyone sees this, but I pay attention to
all players. What makes them tick is how you get certain advantages. I have said things that were inappropriate after a match.
Johnny K is a prime example, Darin Young, Paul Lim, Bob Gargan, Scott Cook, and so many more
have embarrassed themselves at some time or another. It is the beast that makes them tick, and also makes them have the desire to win.
I would like to see more rivalries in this sport. Look at Michael Jordan and Karl Malone,
Ali and Frazier, Barr and Unitas, Chamberlain and Russell, and so many other sports authorities that have commented on “the game.” It doesn’t matter what game
it is, no one likes to lose. Some are more graceful than others, but that is how it will always be.
Keep the desire/anger to not lose in your head. If you don’t have it, you may as well stop
competing all together. Good luck in the future and will see you around.
Your friend and competitor,
—Roger Carter
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