PLAYER PROFILE
Jim Gennai

Jim Gennai is an all-too familiar competitor around the South Puget Sound and beyond!
Jim’s presence at the boards is both feared and widespread as his career in darts continues expanding to include the rest of these United States. Recently hand-selected to represent the Northwest Region in the prestigious East West All Star Challenge in Stamford, Connecticut, last month, Jim is the real thing. He allows his darts to do the talking.
This month, the Medallion was fortunate enough to catch him during his busy dart schedule and share a few choice words (well, not “choice words”, but you know what we mean...) the man rocketing his way to the top of the national dart competition.

Jim, when did you begin playing darts? 1984

Did you have immediate success at the boards? When I first started playing darts, Dean’s Tavern on 38th street was the hot spot in Tacoma. I took my share of lumps and lost my share of money to begin with, but with a lot of practice, I got better and better.

How and when were you introduced to soft-tip darts?

I was just hanging out at a tavern called Draft Choice, on 72nd and Pacific. Back in the “old days” you could get a free beer for a hat trick. I saw this as a way to drink for free. They also had a tally board for hat tricks. You would receive a star by your name for each one. This was like a challenge to me, so I played a lot to get as many stars as possible.

Who is your biggest supporter?

In the early days it was my own ego, but for the last 18 years it has been my wife Shirley.

Do you have any children?

Yes. I have two sons, Christopher age 25, Robert, age 24, and one daughter, Erin, age 22.

What do you do for fun outside of darts?

I enjoy working in the yard, and spoiling my grandson Kaden.

How do you make your living?

At the present time, I work as a warehouseman for Tacoma Electric Supply.

Have you ever thought of making a living with your darts?

Not really, because even when I won the Bullshooter 501 World Championship in 1990 it only paid $1500. Back in the day, I had three children living at home I needed a steady income to support them.

Tell us of some of your greatest moments in the sport.

As noted in the prior question, winning the 501 World Championship was the big one. Also, being the top rated player in both Medalist and ADOI at the same time. Plus, being able to help lower rated players achieve their potential by teaching them some of the little things about darts.

How well did you fare in Connecticut on August 11th, 2005?

I finished 9th out of 128 top rated steel tip players.

Was it truly a national draw and how tough was the competition?

Yes. All areas of the country were represented. The competition was intense. Many of the top-rated players in the country were there.

How far do you typically travel to play?

Most of the regional qualifiers are held in Portland. Winning these allows you to travel all over the country to play. I also go to the Tri-Cities to play in their tournaments. I am going to get a steel tip league started here in the Tacoma, Yelm, Olympia area.

Which is your favorite location from which to play and why?

I don’t have a favorite location to play out of. I move around a lot so I play different players all the time.

You play in several league programs. What are the positives of each?

Steel tip is more fun and less bull. It’s bring your darts and lets play. ADOI is small and friendly. Medalist is where the money is.

Give us a short definition of your philosophy toward the game and other players.

As for the game, it’s not my job, it doesn’t feed my kids, and it’s not life or death, so it can’t be too important. As for other players, remember, it’s just a game. Relax and have fun.

Who is your mentor in the sport?

When I first started playing it was Willis Bell. He was where I wanted to be, at the top. Also Kay Davidson taught me to keep my big mouth shut and my ego in check. At this point, I tend to be the mentor.

How many nights per week can you be found playing darts?

Depending on the season, between two and five.

What is the most important aspect of the game in your opinion?

To have fun and enjoy yourself, and the people you shoot with.

How can we encourage new players to join the sport?

When you see someone new playing, help him or her out. Encourage them; let them know you didn’t get this good overnight. We all had to start somewhere.

Where would you like to see yourself in ten years with regard to darts?

Still playing both steel and soft tip, and having fun doing it.

Thanks for letting us in on some of your great insights and sharing a bit about yourself, Jim. We look forward to seeing many more accomplishments from you in the future.
If you’re fortunate enough to play with or against Jim, watch, learn and appreciate that experience. Jim has come a long way and keeps his eyes focused on the goal. Every one of us could learn a thing or two from this man among men.