Player Profile: Bob LeMaster

Bob, how and when did you ever get started in darts? Back in 1992, there was a group of us who worked the swing shift together, and we would go out for a few beverages after work, split into teams and throw. We used to go to the End Zone (now Spectators); they talked us into playing league, and the rest is history.

Do you have any children or family in the area? No kids, both parents have passed, brother and sister live in other states, and I have some aunts and uncles in the area.

What activity (outside of darts) is your greatest love? I really love to play golf.

Has there always been an affection for the game of darts? Kind of. A dart board always seemed to be at the bar we were at; someone always had darts, so we threw a few games.

From which locations have you played dart leagues over the years? This could be a long list… I played at one bar that does not exist any longer, called the Non Stop on Pac Hwy ; it is now a Homeland Security Office. The rest of the list is: End Zone (now Spectators), VIP, Sports Page ( Auburn ), Wah Long, Goldie's Casino (Shoreline), Tigers, Goldie's on 45th, Wayne 's World.

Which was your favorite and why? I don't have one favorite. I played at many different places based on where friends wanted to shoot, but service provided by the bar was also an issue. If we are treated better at one place compared to another, we might just switch.

Has it always been Medalist for you? Yes.

What was your rating when you began and what is it today? I began as a 4, and I finished the most recent season as an 8.

How do you feel about competing with higher-rated players? I enjoy it. A higher rated player brings out the best in me because I know that I have to hit just about every dart.

Do you have an ongoing rivalry with anyone playing today? I play a lot of tournaments and some leagues with Ryan Hattrup. When we are warming up, or just out throwing, we really seem to want to beat each other, so it is kind of a friendly rivalry.

Who has been your greatest influence in the game? Back in the 90's, Chris Bennett and Tony Ashworth shot out of the End Zone, and were very helpful in developing a lot of the strategy I learned early on. Newer players really influence me today, they still play for the fun of the game, and it reminds me that I started playing darts for fun.

Where do you look for uplifting or encouragement while shooting? My beer…

Are you superstitious before a big event? Not really.

What are the most important attributes in a favorable Dart Coordinator? Someone who takes care of all their players, not just their friends and high rated players. The coordinator should also make sure that the players are being given good service from the bartenders and servers.

Who have been your most favorite teammates over the years? Eric Hipp, Ryan Hattrup, Warren Shaver, Jenny Schimke, D.J. Snell

What is the most important aspect of the game, in your opinion? Play hard, have fun.

How have the many changes surrounding darts and dart players in the Northwest over the years affected you? Unfortunately, I see a lot of dart players who don't give an honest effort in league. Their whole goal seems to be holding their rating down so they can win tournaments and brag about how they are a 5 shooting a 10 and beating some high rated player, then wondering why people are mad at them.

I know Medalist is doing what they can to correct this, but anytime you have a sport that is handicapped, there will always be people trying to find ways around the system for their benefit, especially when money is involved.

Any feelings about the sport of darts as a whole these days? I kind of like the national attention that professional darts is getting. It's kind of fun to watch. The accuracy those guys have is amazing.

What changes do you expect in the way tournaments are offered in the future? Hard to say…

How can the average dart player make a difference in growing the sport? Have fun, and get more people involved.

Will we you “In the Pit” next season? I hope so; it takes some good darts, and a little luck to get there.