Tom's Thumbs take 35th Masters "A" Crown

By Mike Bates

Tom’s Thumbs came up any way but small in taking the 35th Season Crown in the Masters A Division. With “Top Gun” Tom McCartney at the helm and hot shooting Rick Schoen as his “Wingman”, the pair led their squad to an unbelievable final three weeks.
With Bill Beard and Bob Christman as a solid supporting cast, they were able to come from way behind to earn the top spot. Rick’s Rammers finished second as they fell 11-10 on the final night to give the Thumbs the title.
Rick Breckinfelder was the captain who was the bride’s maid once again. Eric Barron, Derek Walton, and Mark Rymer filled out the squad that came up just two games shy. With several top shooters taking some time off, the fans felt the season might be weak; and they were so wrong. For the first time in Masters League history, the 5.0 barrier was surpassed eight different times.
The previous mark was four, back in 2001. Jimmy Damore played only 11 weeks and would have been on pace to shatter several long-standing records had he played the whole season. His 4.93 was the highest ever for anyone playing at least five weeks and his 12 nine marks were only four off the all time 10 week record.
Fifteen players were at 30.0 per dart or higher, and fifteen above a 3.8. Just when the critics were out in force the league answers the call with lots of talented players. The league continues to flourish and can still boast as being the highest league in the country. Not only is it the highest rated, but also the payouts are next to none. With the B Masters and the tournament, the league again paid out a whooping total surpassing the $8,000 mark. Thanks for all the support and we will start again in mid-September. Call Troy Vending (602-265-0178) or Dart Master (623-847-2077) to make sure you are on the Draft list.