If you haven't been following this section of my site, I'll briefly get you up to speed. I was added to the roster of a Saturday team as the only woman (and truthfully the weakest player on the team). I wasn't too excited about this team because I was more or less a sub, added because the team didn't have enough players. And the division of this team was much higher skill-level then someplace that I belonged. But, being a passionate darter, I joined the team and to my surprise I am having the time of my life and my game has improved immensely.

On the plus side - being the only woman shooter most weeks as we have so far competed against only male teams - there is NO waiting in line for the ladies' room. Another plus is that shooting with excellent darters has forced me to bring my game to the line and shoot better than I have ever shot before in my life. That doesn't mean that I am winning every match, or even every other match, or even a single game of single's, but still, my darts are good, consistent and better than ever with tight groups! This only comes with competing with those whose skill level far exceeds my own. Still, it would be nice to win and I am confident that that will happen soon.

The thing about being the only woman on a team of male darters is that opponents don't want to lose to a woman. Somehow they find an extra ounce of testosterone, and goaded on by their teammates who tease them "You aren't going to lose to a girl, are you?" takes them to that next level and the win.

In my heart of hearts, I know after the mechanics are down, it's all a mental game and herein lies the problem. Now that I've lost a few singles match, the pressure that I am putting myself under is amazing and like an albatross around my dart arm. Easy shots that I've made a million times before seem to allude me as I go for the win and in the back of my mind I think "Please let this be the week that I win!"

My team members are great - they are excellent shots, they practice with me, they watch me compete and they encourage me. I couldn't ask for anything more from both my Captain and my teammates. So what does it take to win? The answer is getting my head in the game and focusing and that is something that no one can help me with - I'm on my own with this one and I am determined to figure this out for myself.

So watch out opponents, be forearmed, - I'm on my way and my wins are eminent.

Team Redeux out of Sponge Reef, Schaumburg, IL USA From left to right: Todd, Sherilyn, Andy, Jim and Eric
As always, shoot well and I'll see you at the line.