Stacy Bromberg's Background...

Stacy "The Wish Granter" Bromberg
Nick Name: The Wish Granter because of her involvement with the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Southern Nevada
Date of Birth: July 27th 1956
Place of Birth: Los Angeles, California, US
Home town: Las Vegas, Nevada
Affiliations: ADO, NDA, SNDA
Hobbies: Swimming, diving and American football (Go Raiders!)
Type of Dart Used: Custom darts by Winmau, 26 gram, center loaded

Stacy has been the US Women's number one player for the 13 of the last 16 years, the last 11 years consecutively. She was listed in the Sports Illustrated Millennium Issue when the top 50 sports persons for each state were announced. Stacy was ranked #32 in the State of Nevada, putting her in the top 66% of individual sports people in the US, according to Sports Illustrated Magazine.

Major accomplishments include, but are not limited to:

• Finished #1 in America for the 11th straight year and finished in a 2 way tie for 5th place in the WDF World Rankings with Anastasia Dobromyslova of Russia.
• Finished as #1 woman is US (American Darts Organization, ADO points) for the 12th consecutive year in 2007.
• Ranked as #1 Women's in the American Darts Association (ADA) rankings.
• Ranked #1 Woman in the World for the National Darts Association (NDA), Electronic darts.
• Undisputed Champion of the North American Open Darts Tournament.
• Only woman to be "officially " told In writing: "You're just too good to play against women!" by Arachnid, Inc.
• Stacy's personal fund raising efforts (in the past eleven years) for "The SNV Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Southern Nevada", through her Darts Scores for Charity Foundation is over $102,500.

How Did This Interview with Stacy Bromberg Come to Fruition?

My interview with Stacy Bromberg all started with a visit to her professional website and an E-mail that I sent her requesting an interview. I was on a mission to find a strong, confident, talented, woman professional darter and I found the best in Stacy Bromberg! Here is her reply to my E-mail request:

Hi Sherilyn--

Got your inquiry to my web site. It would be my pleasure to do an interview with you via E mail. Just send me anything you'd like to ask and I'll do my best to answer you. I will also be at the Windy City Open in Sept, in case you are able to attend.

Thanks for asking, and I'll hope to hear from you soon...

Regards-Stacy Bromberg

This interview took quite a long time to complete and I am grateful to Stacy Bromberg for her time and energies, her endless proofing of the details of my writing and so on. After all, she's a busy woman, as you'll learn from this interview with many interests besides competing non-stop at dart tournaments throughout the year. Little did I realize how gracious Stacy Bromberg would be with her interview, sharing the most detailed parts of her career, personality and character. Believe me, I appreciate this and this says a lot about Stacy's character because not all professional darters are 1) approachable and 2) give me the time of day.

She has been so very generous with her time and energies and this has simply been an awesome experience to get to know Stacy Bromberg. I hope you enjoy reading this interview, as much as I have enjoyed getting to know Stacy and writing about her life, goals, beliefs, and the things she strives for, day in and day out. it. Thank you for taking the time to read about Stacy Bromberg on "The Passionate Darter" website, from a very humbled passionate darter. ~Warm regards and fondly, Sherilyn J. Herkey, AKA The Passionate Darter.

The Interview Begins...

Introduction from Terry Maness, Owner of Horizon Darts - Official Sponsor of Stacy Bromberg

I will say this. Although some have said they think Stacy Bromberg is a bit abrasive at times, no one (man or woman) denies her skill at the oche. The Stacy I know personally is a wonderful person, full of life, funny, very giving of her time and effort and an outstanding representative for the sport of darts. The selflessness she shows raising money for "The SNV Make-A-Wish Foundation®" is nothing short of amazing. We feel fortunate that she wanted to have us as her sponsor and proudly put Laserdarts on her shirts. Her enthusiasm is infectious and her sportsmanship is unsurpassed. Even when she suffers a defeat, she is nothing be gracious and blames no one but herself for any shortcomings (something I've seen very few other players do). And when she wins, I've always seen her give sincere condolences or encouraging plaudits to those who have played her

Last weekend, I watched her play darts on the stage with about 4 or 5 of the youngsters from the Youth Finals in Connecticut. She was showing them a number of new games and ways to practice, playing game after game and they were all having a ball. And she did this for hours! One of the things I admire most is her fearlessness. She doesn't care if you're a ranked PDC pro or the hottest player in the world...Man or woman, it doesn't matter. Stacy will go toe to toe with you without blinking an eye. She's just there to give it her best effort. And that's why a lot of PDC players fear her. They're afraid that she'll beat them. And when (not if) she does, they won't be able to return to the UK or they'll have to go home with their tail between their legs and suffer untold, unending ridicule as the professional who lost to a woman, especially a US woman. Of course, they'll simply be the first, not the only. TeeHee!

That all said, I will wait anxiously to read her interview. ~ From Terry Maness, Horizon Darts

Getting to Know Stacy Bromberg

What Did You Want to Do With Your Life When You Were Younger?

When I was very young, I wanted to be a professional competitor and be able to represent my country in the Olympics. Really!! This was my heart's greatest desire.

I competed in every sport at the local Parks and Recreation level, was varsity in High School in Swimming, Diving, Volleyball, Tennis, and Softball. The only sport in which I was Junior Varsity was basketball. I played a little flag football and soccer but only at a recreational level.

When I got older and realized I'd actually have to 'work' for a living, I set my sights on the legal profession. After all, what would be better than winning legal battles for the underdog...championing worthy causes...doing the 'right' thing?? So I went to school, studied hard, and entered the legal profession....only to have my dreams crushed! It turned out to be a ruthless, cut-throat profession where nobody was concerned with what was right or wrong, only in making a buck. I was quickly disillusioned with the entire profession. So, not wanting to ignore all the time I put in for my degrees, I took another year to obtain my Private Investigator's License, in several states, and proceeded to do the 'legal field work' for many of the attorneys with whom I attended law school and their associates. This business flourished for many years but one day I discovered darts and all my priorities changed. Darts became my passion. Through darts I have been able to represent my country after all...maybe not in the Olympics, but World Cup, the World Masters, and many International events have been quite rewarding for me. I am so very grateful for everything darts has given me. It is really incredible the places I have been able to visit as well as all the people I have met all over the world.

How Did You Start Playing Darts?

It was in January of 1987. I went to a local bar in the city in which I grew up, Culver City, California. The bar was called The Scarlet Lady Saloon. A friend of mine from high school owned it so I went there to watch a Monday night football game. (I LOVE NFL football. My team is the Oakland Raiders!) So, I'm sitting there watching football and another high school friend had a dart team playing that night. As things turned out, they were short a player. Before I knew it they had handed me a set of darts and were telling which segments to hit on the board. I caught on pretty quickly and I remember the format was a singles match...best of 5 games....all 501

I was up 2-1 and was really enjoying the whole thing. I remember in the fourth game, I had 56 left and I told my team mates to let me figure it out on my own. I went up and threw a single 20, another single 20, and then hit the double 8! I was so proud of myself until my team mates asked me why I didn't throw at the double 18. I just looked at the board then back at them, smiled and said, "OK...next time!" Little did I know at that point how many 'next times' there would be. Then I was told that I had to join the local dart association. in town (SCDA-Southern California Darts Association.) in order for my match to count so I went down to the local dart store the next day, paid my $10.00 for a year's membership and bought a set of darts figuring I may 'sub' on a team here or there in the future. Before I knew it.....I was pounding the board for hours on end. I loved the game from the very start!

Do You Prefer Steel-Tip or Electronic Darts? Do You Play Both? And, In Your Opinion, What Does It Take to be Successful in Both?

LOTS OF PRACTICE! I have even posted 'Practice Routines' on my web site to help other darters. I, personally, enjoy steel tip darts more than electronic darts since, I believe, it is a more 'pure' form of the sport. For instance, a dart that bounces out does not count in steel tip. If a machine score incorrectly, you may or may not be able to correct the error in electronic darts depending on when the error occurs and what the incorrectness may be. I still play both but try to concentrate primarily on steel tip.

Do You Remember Your First Ton70 Out?

I don't remember my first 170 out but I do remember the one that was the most fun! I threw it while I was in a bar called 'Westwood Ranch' in Grand Rapids, Michigan around Oct./ Nov. 2006, I think. I was doing an exhibition there for the owner, Marty Huvar.I remember walking into the bar and seeing their 'Wall Of Fame' with some players' names up on the wall. I asked what a player had to do to get their name on the wall. They said you had to throw a perfect game, a 170 on or a 170 out. I said, "I'm going to be up on that wall by the end of tonight!" They said, "That's what Steve Brown said and he didn't make it". I simply said, "Well, I'm not Steve Brown!". Naturally this fired everyone right up! All night long I took challenges from players in the bar. Everyone knew I really wanted to get on the Wall of Fame so most all picked 301 for their challenge game to give me the most chances at it. I would try to shoot the double bull for my on every time. Several times I hit a 130 on missing my third dart so the next turn I'd throw a 1, pull the dart, and take another shot at a 170 out. Finally I hit a 170 finish and we were all so happy that we stopped the exhibition to phone Steve Brown at home to tell him that I made it on to the Wall of Fame when he hadn't. It was all in fun and everyone there had a good time.

Everyone Remembers Their First Ton80! Do You Remember Yours and What Did That Feel Like?

This I remember because I still have the pewter mug that is engraved with the exact date that I threw my first 180. I remember looking at the triple 20 and wondering how people got all three darts in such a small area. The more I threw, the larger the area seemed to get. Finally, I hit one on Feb. 13, 1987.

Most Professional Darters Have Their Own Personal Goal of Throwing That Perfect Game of '501. Have You Ever Thrown a Perfect 9-dart '501 Game?

No, unfortunately, this is something I have yet to do. I have thrown an 8 dart Cricket game and several 7 dart 301 games and, once, I threw a 10 dart 501 game 501 but that was about as good as it has gotten for me to date. I even remember the scores I threw...180, 135, 136, 50 out.

Who Are Your Favorite Partners to Team Up With in Competition?

Hands down...Marilyn Popp is an absolute blast to partner. Besides having a very good win/loss record with her, we ALWAYS have fun when we play. In fact, we have so much fun that, at times, I have to stop and wonder if what we're doing is illegal! I can't remember how we originally 'hooked up' as dart partners. We have known each other and been very good friends for many years. It's a great 'comfort zone' we have when we compete together - especially in International competitions.

For mixed events, I am partnered up with Darin Young and I couldn't ask for a better partner...both ability-wise and personality-wise. In the 'partner department' I must say, I am a very lucky person.

In addition to these people, there are partners I team up with like Rose Carrigan, Trish Grzeck, Susie Hall, Andrea Taylor, John Part, Davis Snider, Danny Baggish, Joe Slyvan, Gary Mawson, Jim Widmayer...Geez, I could go on forever. I have met and teamed up with so many super people who are also my friends. I am very lucky indeed.

Did You Have a Mentor or Who Has Had the Most Influence On Your Game?

I think the partner who has had the most influence on me and my dart game is Coombes. Lil recently passed away (June 16, 2008) at the age of 85. I had met Lil when she was only 64 and she 'took me under her wing' and taught me how to compete. She is always in my heart when I compete.

I still remember when I met Lil. It was in Southern California, at a small ADO tournament. Someone pointed her out to me because I had asked about the 'older lady'. I was told that Lil was a World Champion who had started playing darts at 55 years of age after she had lost her husband,Lee, who had also played darts, to cancer. I introduced myself to her and told her that if she ever needed a partner, I'd love to play with her. I gave her my business card, I was a full-time Private Investigator at the time and she seemed to really get a kick out of that. We started chatting and, before I knew it, we had set up for a few tournaments. We played so well together that we started traveling all over the country together. I learned about the 'head-games' people can play, the 'antics' some try to use to put off their opponents, etc. I suppose Lil had seen it all throughout the years. And I especially leaned how to really 'dig deep' within myself mentally while competing. Naturally, I'm not going to give away all my secrets, but I will always remember what Lil taught me. To this day, I am still very close with people in England whom I met through Lil. She will live on forever within me.


When ever Lil and I drew against each other in a singles event, she'd say,"It's 'youth and enthusiasm' (me) versus 'age and experience' (Lil). Let's see who prevails..." That always made both of us smile. Now it seems that I have become the 'age and experienced one'. I think of her often when I am at tournaments. Even if I do not win a match, Lil always told me, "If you learn something from the match then it isn't a complete loss. Use the experience to better your game." That's why I really believe "Experience is what you get when you don't get what you want." The other thing Lil left me with is the ability to 'let things go'. That is to say that once a match is over, don't re-think it, don't dwell on it, just learn from it and let it go. Lil always said that when the last dart hits the board to finish the match, whether it is my dart or my opponent's dart, the match is OVER...let it go! (Editor's Note: Lil Coombes unfortunately passed away recently. Her memory lives on through people like Stacy who knew and loved her! Her darts will go down in history for her accomplishments and will always be remembered!)

Do You Prefer Competing in Singles, Doubles or Team Events?

I prefer singles events as,I believe, do most pros. At left, a triumphant Stacy Bromberg at the '2003 Las Vegas Desert Classic.

Do You Find That the Competition is Stiffer and More Difficult in Other Countries?

ABSOLUTELY! The toughest competition is probably in the UK. Over there most players have been playing since they were very young. The game is far more popular over there so the players get good at a younger age. Keep in mind, youngsters can legally drink at the ripe old age of 18 over there and they are permitted to go into pubs/bars and play darts with a parent at 16 years of age. This alone really opens up a huge window of opportunity for young players.

I will admit, that in the recent past, the ADO's youth program has really sky-rocketed in success. This is in large part due to the efforts of Carolyn Camp, ADO National Youth Coordinator, and I think, it will continue to get better. Keep an eye out for Danny Lauby Jr. (this year's ADO Youth Champion), Robert Hamm Jr. of Michigan, and the 'wonder-kid', Lee Hills, who, at the age of 4 had already won an adult/youth shoot with his dad, Steve Hills. Hopefully, soon we will really be able to hold our own in the stiffest of competitions.

What Is It Like Qualifying for the Masters' Team?

It is always rewarding to be a part of the World Masters or World Cup teams. Since there are so few spots available to Americans and so many people trying out for the spots, it is always nice to be a part of the team. This year will be especially fun for me since a good friend of mine, Chris Plant, has family in Hull, England and that is quite close to Bridlington where the Masters is held so I am already looking forward to seeing them and taking them to the awards banquet.

The World Masters' competition is always the absolute best! In my opinion, this is where I face my toughest competition except for the PDC events in which I compete. Having qualified for these teams a number of times is that much more special for me since it has given me the opportunity to compete with and get to know other American players with whom I would not otherwise have the opportunity to spend any real time.

Tell Me About Your Sponsor, Horizon Darts and Your Relationship with Bull's Eye News? (Now simply known as BEN)

I am sponsored by Laserdarts..which is also Horizon Darts. Bulls Eye News is the only National darts magazine in the U.S. and I am fortunate to be a contributing writer for them. In these two areas I really got lucky in that Jay (Tomlinson) of Bulls Eye News and Terry (Maness) of Laserdarts, and her sister Mel (Foster), are all really good friends of mine. Our relationships go far beyond darts. If things stay on schedule, Laserdarts/Horizon darts will be marketing my signature dart later this year or early next year. Keep an eye out for it!

Bull's Eye News Magazine (Now Simply Known as BEN)

I have been writing for Bulls Eye News for years and I love it. Jay Tomlinson is a good friend of mine and I'd do whatever I can for him. If it weren't for him, America wouldn't have a National darts magazine to speak of.

How in the World Did You Come to Write for a Japanese Publication?

Oh yes...the Japanese magazine...

When I was in Australia at the 1997 World Cup, Hidaki Masuda, editor of New Darts Life Magazine, asked me if I would like to write an article about the World Cup for his magazine. He just came up to me at the banquet and asked. Just like that. I said, "Sure" and wrote it up. After that he asked if I would like to be a regular contributor and I agreed. It's a kick to see my name in Japanese next to an article in his magazine!

What's it Like to be The Top Woman Professional Darter in the US?

It's a BLAST! The finances aren't much to speak of but there is a great deal of notoriety that goes with it. And it really has been a great ride. My guess is that it will soon slow down a great deal as airfares have gone up so much that I cannot really afford to travel as much as I would like to. Living in Vegas, I have to fly to most every tournament I want to attend. And, unfortunately, I live in a Region that has almost no participation in Regionals (something we are hoping to change but have several hurdles in our way) so obtaining ranking points in the future will be quite difficult. But as long as I can play, I plan to and I also plan to continue my fund raising endeavors for "The SNV Make-A-Wish Foundation®" of Southern Nevada. That is something I would like to continue forever...

How Do You Handle the Pressure to Succeed as a Top US Professional Woman Darter, and Do You Ever Get Nervous at the Line? How Do You Handle Your Nerves?

To me, there really isn't any pressure to succeed...I have come to terms with just doing the best I can. As far as being nervous goes, sure I get nervous. I get nervous because I care. I want to do well and I am always going to give 110% but whatever will be will be. Anyone who says they don't care is either not telling the truth or doesn't really care about winning. The way to handle it is to always do the best you can and play LOTS of tournaments. The trick is to handle your nerves while competing and the more tournaments you play, the better you will get at this. If someone else plays better on a given day, shake their hand and get on with the next competition. Your day will come...just keep at it. Remember, the best things in life are NOT easy to come by. Keep at it - do not give up - and enjoy the rewards when you do succeed!

Describe Your Experiences at The Las Vegas Desert Classic Tournaments...

I competed on the big stage at the '2003 Las Vegas Desert Classic and after triumphantly winning against Deta, I proudly held up a stuffed animal.

That was my 'Good Luck" bear some friends gave me before I went on stage. I was backstage before the event when it was brought to me and Sue McClosky (Dan Olsen's better half) was there with John Part who was also waiting to play and she mentioned that her son, Joey, collects bears. Joey is a special needs child with a heart of gold so I sent the bear home with her for him. It had an American flag sweater on it and, since they are Canadian, it was a big hit with Joey. Whenever I see a bear, I think of Joey. In fact, just this past Desert Classic, in 2008, I sent two more bears home with Dan for Joey! And Sue and I were just talking about that this past weekend in Chicago!!

More on The Las Vegas Desert Classic

The Desert Classic offered a women's event the first 5 years it was held. Unfortunately, the women's attendance was so poor that it had to be discontinued. I appreciate the fact that the PDC tried to make it happen. I believe finances are the main reasons it didn't succeed. The women's qualifiers were held the first two days followed by 3 days of no competition until the semi finals on the following Sat. and the finals on the Sunday. Vegas is not an inexpensive town in which to wait 3 days to play the next round in an event. Couple that with the cost of flying over and hotel expenses and it presents financial challenges. I am fortunate enough to have competed in every Desert Classic since it began.

Of course, living in Vegas makes this possible for me.

It was great when they had the women's singles event. It was a very generous payout and was televised the first two years here in the states. The first year it paid the Ladies' Champion $8,000.00! Unfortunately the prize money was cut in half the second year when I won it but it was still a nice payday for me. During the first 5 years of the Desert Classic the PDC used to offer a Cricket singles event at the end of the tournament. This was done primarily for the benefit of the American competitors as Cricket doesn't play much of a part in darts in the U.K. and Europe. I was fortunate enough to have won this Ladies Cricket event all 5 years it was held.

Now I have my work cut out for me playing against the men each year. I have yet to qualify onto stage, but I plan to keep trying. I love competing against the men since I have absolutely nothing to lose and all the pressure is on the men not to lose to me.

Do You Think That You Have Reached Your Peak Performance at This Point in Your Career and Your Life?

Not really even though I do admit that lot of traveling a lot really takes it toll on me. I plan to be around for awhile after I get my teaching credential sorted out in the state of Nevada. They do not recognize teaching credentials from California so I'll probably have to do a bit of jumping through hoops next year for the School District, but after that gets sorted out, I have no doubt I'll be able to teach and attend tournaments for many years to come. In, say, 5 years, providing there is still adequate prize money offered, airfares are not completely outrageous, and I am still enjoying the game, I plan to be out and about playing darts as much as financially possible. Outside of the top PDC players, I realize that playing darts as a full time source of income is not all that possible. Since I enjoy other aspects of the circuit, i.e. going to different places, meeting new people as well as seeing old friends, I do intend to be around for awhile.

How Do You Handle Defeat, Especially When You Want Something So Badly That Your Heart Hurts?

Handling defeat is never an easy thing. If I have done my best then I realize there isn't anything else I could have done. Perhaps it was just meant to be the other person's day. I believe that if you don't experience losing, you will not appreciate winning. Even Phil Taylor loses occasionally. A real champion just learns to suck it up and get on with the next challenge. If, however, I have not properly prepared for the competition, i.e. practiced, gotten some rest before, etc.then I'll just accept it and know I can do better next time.

Now For a Few Tough Questions...

What do you say to those who insist that you are abrasive?

Life is tough and we all say and do what we feel, as we must to get the job done. I never intend to be abrasive to anyone but there are times when I can hardly hold my tongue. I can't please everyone, however, I feel good about what I do and how I go about getting it done, so I am satisfied with that.

There are Reports that You Have Not Taken Pro-Am Events Seriously, Specifically at an Event at the Windy City Open, Several Years Back. Do You Take These Events Seriously?

Taking Pro-Am events seriously?...This one is an absolute! In fact, I may take these events more seriously than the 'Ams'. Pro-Am events are a great way to meet the grassroots players. I enjoy playing with and partnered them, probably, more than they enjoy playing with me. I just played the Pro Am event in Chicago at the Windy City Open tournament in September, 2008, and met some really great people doing it. I have played this event every year for about 7 or 8 years, maybe more, and I love it!

Is It Difficult as a Professional Darter, and a Woman to Boot,to Constantly Be in the Spotlight?

Difficult to be in the spotlight?...This is something a person has to get 'used to' and learn to deal with in their own way. I enjoy this...I've always like being the center of attention and I am an 'over-achiever'. I like to see just how good I can be at something and I love a challenge. That's probably why I enjoy playing the PDC events. It's a challenge and there is that much more spotlight available for me.

As a Professional Darter, How Have You Grown Over the Years?

Matured as darter? Lessons learned? Experience once again comes into play here. I think the most important thing I have learned over the years is that if I win a match, the sun will come up the next day. If I lose a match, the sun will still come up. That is to say, you must keep things in perspective. Never lose sight of your priorities. My priorities have always been family first! That is still how I feel and darts are just the 'icing on the cake'. And I do love cake!!!!

On a Serious Note, You are a 4-Time Cancer Survivor, Which Most People Don't Know. How Has This Affected You?

I really hate dwelling on my experiences with cancer. This because everyone has their own challenges in life. My encounters with cancer started in 1983 when I was diagnosed with Cervical Cancer. Since then, I have had three more encounters with topical Melanoma, the last one being in January, 2007. So far, I seem to have the upper hand on this, but I still go to the skin cancer doctor three or four times a year.

Each day that I am able to fight this is a good day!

On a Different Topic, What Do You Do With Your Plaques and Trophies?

Through the years I have earned a lot of these. Some are really special, but the thing that is so special about them is the experience and the memory of earning them. For instance, I'm not really sure where my gold medals are from the World cup in Australia in 1997, but the memory of winning on stage will always be with me. This applies to just about every plaque and trophy I have won.

Years ago I donated many plaques and trophies to Children's charities to be recycled for their purposes. Then I started giving them to people at the tournaments. This is still pretty much what I do. For instance, I just attended the Glenn Silva Memorial tournament on Labor Day in Florida and at this tournament they give out a really cool trophy to the singles winners...a great big space shuttle! I must admit they really are something special and I won two more this year. Since I already have one at home, I chose to give them to others. This year I gave the Cricket trophy to the young lady who scored the match for us and I gave the 501 trophy to a lady who has been following my game for years up and down the East coast. She was thrilled when I gave it to her and that makes me happy.

Since I have been sponsored by Laserdarts, I try to bring them a first place plaque from each tournament I attend. We, Laserdarts and I have started a 'Wall of Fame' in their store in Kansas City and I'm doing my best to completely fill it up. In fact this past weekend at the '2008 Windy City Open, in Chicago, I won three plaques so I brought one home to give to Laserdarts and gave the other two away to people who were present when I won them. I was also fortunate enough to win the Ladies' MVP for the weekend, so I donated the Champagne back to the Windy City Board staff and I am having the silver-loving-cup sent to Terry Maness at Laserdarts. All she knows at this time is that I am sending her 'something' from Chicago. She won't know what it is until it arrives. I'm just hoping to put a smile on her face! She is my good friend as well as my sponsor.

Do Professional Darters Respect Others, Including the Men and Both the Women Professional Darters?

As far as respect between the players goes, I believe there is a high level of respect between most players. That is the impression I get. I do know of certain players that dislike, have no respect for, or even can't tolerate being around certain other players. Some is probably with good reason and some may not be. I do not feel I am in a position to discuss any particulars, but, for the most part, mutual respect is the general feeling. The one thing that never ceases to amaze me is the support that top players have for one another. I think everyone realizes that we are all in this thing together and it is much easier if we all strive to get along.

Have You Ever Been in Awe of Any Darters Whom You Have Met or Competed Against?

I can honestly say 'No' to this one but have to mention two things. First, when I first started playing darts, I met and quickly partnered up with Paul Lim...Ronnie Baxter was one of the first 'new friends' I made on the darts circuit and within a year or so of beginning to play, I started partnered Lil Coombes who introduced me to Eric Bristow, Bobby George, and Dennis Priestly so I always saw the best as really nice people who also happen to be World class dart champions. I was very, very lucky in this respect. Second, I consider Phil Taylor to be a good friend of mine. I have dined with him and his lovely family, done a radio appearance with him here in Vegas, he has helped me with my charity endeavors, and I must admit that while I am not in 'awe' of him, I will readily admit that I have never seen such a great dart competitor as I see in him. He truly is, to date, the best there has ever been. That is my opinion.

Will You Talk About Your Friendship With England's Pro Darter Andy Fordham?

Oh yes...Andy Fordham...

Yes, I know Andy quite well. He is a wonderful man. He has the heart of a lion! He has been through some tough times of late but he is hanging in there. When I was in England last year at the World Masters', a local television host had Andy on his TV show before the competition started. They were spot lighting his experience he had with his health failing due to his weight. He has since lost a great deal of the weight, I believe well over 100 pounds, and is really looking to take care of his health. He has strong family ties... in fact, when I was at the World Embassy in 2002, he brought his 6 year old nephew, Basil, backstage to meet me because Basil wanted to be a Private Investigator. (Don't know if you knew it but I am also a licensed Private Investigator in two states -licensed with the Bureau of Consumer Affairs in Calif, and the Attorney General's Office here in Nevada.) I guess that's more you didn't know about me!

Note from the Editor: Unfortunately Andy Fordham is in failing health. Everyone, darters, friends and family included, have nothing but good things to say about Andy Fordham. And we all wish him the best, a speedy recovery and a long life as he has much to accomplish at the line. Everyone says he has a heart of gold and may he continue to live life to the fullest, a long and healthy life. My thoughts and prayers, along with thousands of others, are with him every day.

About the Winmau World Masters...

In my opinion, this is where the toughest competitors are found. They also offer a very generous payout for both the men and the women's events.

It is an 'invite only' tournament which is why the competition is so tough. Every Masters' competitor has won a championship or excelled in some sort of competition. This may be by winning a countries' open, i.e. the German Open, the Dutch Open, etc. or by excelling in competition such as England's Super League or County competition. This is also why there are so many Brits in the Masters' competition.

In America, we hold the Masters' Nationals competition where the top 2 women and the top 4 men competitors on that day win their trip to the Masters' This includes airfare and accommodations. Other Americans may win an 'invitation' to the Masters by winning the Cricket Nationals or the 501 Nationals, but those competitors must pay their own way to the Masters' if they choose to compete.

I have played in this competition about a dozen times. To date, the best I have finished is 2nd, but I plan to better that this year. Keep a good thought...

Countries In Which Stacy Bromberg Has Competed

I have racked up a lot of frequent flyer miles over the years! This includes 3 trips to Australia, 2 trips to Holland, 1 trip to South Africa, 1 trip to the Isle of Jersey (in the English Channel), about a dozen or more trips to both England and Canada, a visit to Barbados, and, my favorite, the Cayman Islands. Cayman was so cool that I had to spend 10 days there for a 3 day tournament! Barbados was also nice and offered some of the best scuba diving I have experience. I also dove the Great Barrier Reef, but didn't have the time to go out to the outer islands at the reef, so diving was a bit crowded and 'touristy'.

I've also done some snorkeling at the Galapagos Islands and that was the experience of a lifetime! It was a trip I had dreamed of taking since I was a child and it lived up to my every expectation. I have posted photos from this trip on my web site.

I think my favorite country in which to compete is probably England. The tournaments are so well organized and the payouts are good. So is the competition, so you really have to be on your game to do well, but I do enjoy the challenge. Competing on Canada is also fun. They do a good job running their tournaments and I have many close friends in Canada. My favorite, John Part, helps me out with my fund raiser each year. I often partner and room with Jay and Trish Barlow and Sean Brennerman. They are also good friends of mine.

When the Golden Harvest Open was held in Saskatoon each May, this was a great tournament with big payouts. Unfortunately, it is no longer held so it will now have to remain a pleasant memory for me.

Stacy Bromberg's Many Passports...

I am now on my 3rd passport. I got my first one in 1976 when the Bicentennial Passports were issued. They are different from the standard passports and are a great keepsake. I first traveled internationally in 1977 when I backpacked Europe. So far, I haven't traveled enough to fill every page of any of my passports, but keep in mind, there is room for 4 visa/country stamps on each page. If each page had only one stamp, then I'd have them all filled up!

Stacy Bromberg: Top Player Recognition - An Honor

Yes, I am 'recognized' and asked for autographs at some tournaments I attend. This is especially so at tournaments where they have a darts program about the players such as the programs at the World Cup events. Seems everyone who buys a program sets out on a mission to get all the competitor's autographs. And I think this is great. If it ever stopped, I'd be disappointed. I love giving autographs. I try to talk to everyone who asks, at least for a few minutes, and let them know they are important to the sport. Without the 'fans' there would be no 'dart stars'. In fact, every time I sigh an autograph, I draw a little heart with it. This is because I give a little piece of my heart with every one I sign. It has become my 'trademark'.

What About Respect Between Professional Darters? Does This Exist or Are There Conflicts Behind the Stage?

As far as respect between the players goes, I believe there is a high level of respect between most players. That is the impression I get. I do know of certain players that dislike, have no respect for, or even can't tolerate being around certain other players. Some is probably with good reason and some may not be. I do not feel I am in a position to discuss any particulars, but, for the most part, mutual respect is the general feeling. The one thing that never ceases to amaze me is the support that top players have for one another. I think everyone realizes that we are all in this thing together and it is much easier if we all strive to get along.

Stacy Bromberg's Fiercest Competitors and Tournaments

Anyone can beat anyone on any given day. In this respect, I try to just take my 'A Game' to every match since anyone I play can possibly take me out. Especially in America where the format in darts is so short. Best of 3 games is over in a blink…anyone can have a couple of good or bad games, and then it is over. Just like that. I would like to see the format lengthened to, at least, best of 5 games, with it expanding to best of 7 games in the Semis and best of 9 games in the Final. I realize there are time constraints that go along with this, but maybe 1 less event a day would solve this problem. American tournaments have so many events…players are paying over $100.00 per tournament just for entries! And the payouts do not make up for the costs. I also think it is silly to pay out to the top 32 players in singles events and give them back LESS than their entry fee they paid for the event.

So, I suppose I'd have to say that my fiercest competitor is whomever I am facing at the oche since that is the only person who can take me out of the event at that time.

Darts: Sport or Game?

Naturally this answer is going to vary from person to person-depending upon whom you ask. First I want to say that I don't believe there is a right or wrong answer. It is all opinion and everyone will, in the big picture, have to agree to disagree with each other. My opinion, darts is a sport. The reason being that when a person is on their feet for hours on end competing in a sport that is so mentally tough, I classify it as a sport. Look at the perspiration dripping off the faces of the PDC competitors….darts is NOT a game.

With the Brits Declaring Darts as a "Sport in '2005", This Opens the Door to Have Darts as an Olympic Event in '2012. What are Your Thoughts About Playing Darts for the very first American Olympic Dart Team, Wearing the Red, White and Blue For Your Country and Going for the Gold?

Competing in the Olympics has always been a dream of mine. I am hopeful darts will make it into the Olympics some day, but I don't know if the world is ready for dart players yet....at least, not the way they present themselves at most tournaments here in the U.S. By this, I am referring to the way the look and dress, i.e. flip flops, cut off shorts, a cigarette in one hand and a bottle of beer in the other is just not all that appealing. When I am at dart tournaments, it never ceases to amaze me the way players will finish a beer, set their empty bottle on a table and simply walk away and leave it. I often wonder if the players do this at their homes....then my mind wanders off to an image of how their houses probably look and I have to shake the frightening images out of my mind so I can compete.

This is not to say that I am not hopeful. I am!! I have always admired the way the Canadian and U.K. players look in their photos. Just check out Bulls Eye News photos...a picture is worth a thousand words!

As far as being a part of the team goes, I'd kill for the opportunity! IF and that is a very big IF....IF darts were to find its way into the Olympics in 20012, I would pray that the team(s) from each participating country would consist of both men and women, After all, that is one of the great allures of darts. Both men and women can compete as it doesn't require a great deal of physical conditioning nor strength.

Televised Darts in America

At this point in time, televising darts is so tough, in my opinion, because we have not yet 'educated the masses' here in America. By this I mean that most people in America don't know how to play darts. They think darts is all about hitting bullseyes. They haven't a clue as to how it is really played. The PDC has certainly taken the first step in getting darts televised here in the U.S. but the are missing an integral part. That is to more fully explain the scoring methods and strategy while televising matches. Look at the way Poker has been promoted. Now, just about everyone knows how to play Texas 'Hold 'Em. There needs to be an American professional dart player commentating along side Sid Waddell while explaining it more fully. I believe this would make a huge difference. I, personally, would LOVE to have this opportunity…to be a commentator with Sid. (I really hope Barry Hearn reads this interview!)

Until the masses understand how darts is played, they will continue to 'channel surf' and when they do happen to come across darts, they'll just pass it by to watch 'Extreme Sports' such as mountain biking and skateboarding because they can watch people 'wipe out'. That is entertainment and the spectators don't have to understand the details of each sport to enjoy watching them.

The appearance of dart players and the dart halls in America also play a part in darts not being televised in America. By this I am referring to the cut off shorts, tank tops, empty beer bottles and food wrappers lying around the halls on tables and on the floor. I am so amazed to watch 'adults' finish their drink(s), set the empty container/glass down and simply walk away. For these reasons, sponsors will not pay attention to nor want to advertise their products along side dart tournaments.

This leads me to a 'pet peeve' of mine. I absolutely hate it when I overhear someone at a tournament say, "I'm out of the event but that's OK, I'll get wasted." Go Home and get wasted…

If you want to see darts in all their splendor and glory, professionally produced, go to a PDC event…preferably the Las Vegas Desert Classic…and you'll see darts done right! Then we can approach McDonald's, etc…

And, of course, I must touch base on our poor economy right now here in America. That is a major factor at this time. Years ago I was sponsored by Adidas, but tough financial times coupled with no television exposure in darts brought that to an end. I am very fortunate to be with Laserdarts now.

Barry Hearn's Investment and Subsequent Involvement With Darts

Simply stated, I think Barry Hearn is the best thing to happen to darts since I have been playing. In a few years, he has brought darts up to a new level. Stadiums are being sold out months in advance over in the U.K. and Europe. Thousands of fans are lining up to attend dart competitions. There's finally big money for the top players. It is super! I can only hope darts rises to the level it has 'across the pond'.

I don't know about Barry's 'supposed belief that women belong in the kitchen' but next time I see him, I'll ask him if he'd rather play a game of darts with me or eat a meal I have prepared for him. If he thinks I belong in the kitchen, maybe that'll change his mind!

Stacy Bromberg's Involvement With Youth Darters

Naturally, the first thing I'll say in this respect is that I really do believe our youth players are the future of darts in America. I ma referring to last year's youth player, T.J. Jacques, this year's champion, Dan Lauby Jr., as well as Michigan's Robert Ham Jr., Virginia Beach's J.J. Mongelli, my own youth partner, Marie, Dakota from Texas, as well as 5 year old Lee Hills of Florida. And just because I am not remembering to mention everyone, that doesn't mean you are forgotten. I absolutely love practicing with the youth players. I learn things from them. It is interesting to learn their dart preferences, fears, goals, etc.

And, I must mention Carolyn Camp, the current ADO National Youth Director, and say that she has done a great job the last few years with the National program whose competition culminates in Conn. At the USA Dart Classic each Aug. With sponsorship assistance from Laserdarts, this competition is really great. The youth champion gets to go over to England to represent America in the Winmau World Masters'. That is the experience of a lifetime. I still enjoy the competition over there. The Masters' is really the 'cream of the crop' as far as the level of competition. I think it is much tougher than the America's Cup or even the World Cup.

Tell Me About Your Involvement with Charitable Organizations and Why This is so Important to You, Such as the "Heart of Darts" and the "The SNV Make-A-Wish Foundation®!

This is important to me because it is important to my friend, Ian Waller. He is the gentleman who started the Heart of Darts. I remember when he was writing up the proposal for the charity to become a 'recognized' charity by England. I remember when the charity bought their first wheelchair, for their first person they selected to benefit. Ian, who has had his own heart related health problems, has made a huge difference in the lives of others who really need a hand. I am the "U.S. Ambassador to the Heart of Darts" and take my position very seriously. I will always support the Heart of Darts and Ian!

Why Have You Chosen to be Involved in "The SNV Make-A-Wish Foundation®?"

About 11 years ago, I started thinking about what good being #1 in anything was. Besides being a great ego booster, I feel it enables me to use my position to 'give something back to others'. I, myself, am a 4 time cancer survivor...my latest incident was topical melanoma which I had treated a year ago January. My first incident was with Cervical cancer in 1983. I still have to go to the Dr. several times a year and it is 'hell' getting health insurance but, I suppose everyone has their challenges. When I was 18 years old I used to springboard dive competitively and got the opportunity to work with the Special Olympics doing a diving exhibition in Santa Monica, Cal. I met Eunice Shriver (John Kennedy's sister) who was one of the founders of the Special Olympics and realized how great charity work really is. In my opinion, charity is all about the children. That's why when I decided to use my position as #1 darts competitor a fund raising tool, I decided to help the children. I picked up the telephone and called the National Directory and asked for the phone number of The Special Olympics and "The SNV Make-A-Wish Foundation®." They only had a listing for "The SNV Make-A-Wish Foundation®", so that's the one I with whom I decided to work.

But Here's More On My "Score for Charity" Endeavor

Just wanted to tell you how I started my charity. It goes way back to when I was watching a tennis tournament on TV. (Yes, I love watching tennis, but not as much as my NFL football!) I was watching Pete Sampras' match and the commentator mentioned that Pete had started a charity called 'Aces For Charity'. Whenever he hit an ace in tournament play, he'd donate $100.00 to children's charities and Nike would match the donation,. So, I decided to donate $5.00 (yes, dart players in America don't make much so this is how it all got started) to charity for every 180 I threw in tournament play. I would then ask the tournament director to announce that I had thrown a 180 and anyone who wanted to could match my $5.00 donation for charity.

The first year, I threw 56 180's in tournament play. Along with other darters, we raised almost $1,000.00 the first year. From there, my fund raising endeavors took on a life of their own and has grown into my annual 'Champion's Challenge' which benefits "The SNV Make-A-Wish Foundation®" and is held every year on the Tuesday night during the PDC Desert Classic tournament, here in Las Vegas. Keep an eye out for it on my web site and plan to attend. We have a great time every year and it couldn't be for a better cause!

Other Than Darts, How Do You Spend Your Free Time?

I work in a financial institution...Active Financial Corporation and am their Legal Department Supervisor/Manager. I've been here for about 25 years but they are going out of business, so I have to find something to do that won't bore me. I'll most likely finish out the year with them...I just have to see how quickly they dissolve the business.

Previously, I was a teacher and when I taught in California, I taught P.E. (Physical Education). I have been substitute teaching in different subjects since January in addition, to my job here at Active Financial. If the school where I'd like to teach, would rather I get my credentials in English Literature or Creative Writing, that would be fine with me. I also have my juris degree so I have some options. I sort of suspect that I'll end up teaching math though, because that is where there is currently the greatest demand. I'll get it all sorted out sometime next year!

Yes, I am currently working in Las Vegas and have been here for almost 13 years. Before that I lived in So. Cal. where I was born and raised. I lived by the ocean, Hermosa and Manhattan Beaches, for about 16 years. I used to play a great deal of beach volleyball there. I even met Wilt Chamberlain. In fact,I have what I believe is that very last autograph he ever gave out. It was in Oct. of 1996, just before he passed away from heart disease at a very early age. I think he was around 60. (That's another story for another day...)

What Are the Three Words That Describe You Best?

Wow...I guess that would depend on who you ask. I'd like to think "Down To Earth" is accurate. If you are looking for three descriptive words, than I guess I'd have to say "Competitive, Confident, Strong". In fact I wear a car touche ring my good friend, Mickey Hedges gave me, that reads, in Arabic "Strength / Courage".

What Are Three Things That Most Darters Do Not Know About You?

Let me think about this one for a bit. I am pretty much an open book with my friends on the circuit. I try to be pretty honest with all, so there really isn't that much I keep hidden.

And in Conclusion: A Note From The Editor...

In September, 2008, I traveled to the Windy City Open where I had the opportunity to watch Stacy Bromberg play some competitive darts (and win) as well as meeting her in person. After introducing myself, she was friendly, outgoing and had a moment to share with me for a picture or two. She made a point of shaking hands with her opponent and thanking her chalker - signs of a passionate darter indeed. Later in the tournament, Stacy was at the board chalking a match for some other darters. It was a pleasure to meet Stacy, watch her play, and know that she chalks matches as well.

Marilyn Popp, Stacy Bromberg and Sherilyn Herkey
I've learned Stacy's hobbies include traveling, scuba diving, taking pictures and living life to the fullest. Stacy Bromberg is not only a talented woman darter but a woman of character and someone whom I aspire to be like. This interview has simply been a pleasure to work on and I wish this wasn't ending as I'll miss our E-mail conversations. Next up? I'm going to talk Stacy into letting me write her biography...(seriously folks). Yes indeed, Stacy Bromberg is a darter that you should know!

Finally:

Stacy Bromberg was very gracious with her time and energies for this interview, patiently telling her story and adding the details as I asked for more. I found her story-telling style of writing so interesting to read, that I was disappointed when each E-mail ended because I had more questions and wanted to understand more about how someone who threw a few darts with friends turned around and rose to be the #1 US woman darter! It still amazes me how accessible the professionals are in the arena of world darts and Stacy Bromberg was everything that I hoped for in an interview subject - down-to-Earth, detailed, nice like the girl-next-door kind-of nice, and grateful to doing so well, at something that she loves doing so much. And that is a passionate darter, indeed. My humble thanks to Stacy Bromberg for sharing the details of her career and her outlook on the world of professional darts.

Stacy Bromberg's Home Town - Las Vegas,Nevada USA

For more information on Stacy Bromberg, surf on by her website at:

And don't forget to check out the dart specials online at Horizon Darts, Stacy Bromberg's sponsor:

The Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Southern Nevada: Hope, Strength, Joy

Stacy Bromberg's passionate about darts, of course, but she is just as passionate about her support for the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Southern Nevada. The Make-A-Wish Foundation® grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. Born in 1980 when a group of caring volunteers helped a young boy fulfill his dream of becoming a police officer, the Foundation is now the largest wish-granting charity in the world, with 67 chapters in the United States and its territories. With the help of generous donors and more than 25,000 volunteers, the Make-A-Wish Foundation® grants a wish every 41 minutes and has granted more than 153,000 wishes in the U.S. since inception. For more information about the Make-A-Wish Foundation®, visit www.Wish.org or www.SNV.Wish.org and discover how you can share the power of a wish®.



Stacy Bromberg is passionate about using her time to support The Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Southern Nevada. To date she has personally helped raise over $102,500.00 and YOU can help in this effort to help children with life threatening illnesses and their families. As Stacy has been quoted as saying "It's never too late to make a donation. If you are so inclined, donations may be sent to:"

The Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Southern Nevada
3885 S. Decatur Blvd., Suite 1000
Las Vegas, Nevada 89103

"Be sure to mark your donations with the note 'Dart Donations' so we will be able to keep an accurate count. Again, thank you all, and God Bless. --Stacy Bromberg, Professional Darter"