The Unspoken Rules of Darts: Practicing Etiquette and Sportsmanship

Unbeknownst to many, the game of darts is not only rich in tradition but rich in unspoken rules. While skill plays an incredibly large part in a player’s performance, what matters just as much is a player’s etiquette and attitude. There is a list of behaviors expected from players, spectators, and score keepers alike to help the game of darts retain its reputation as a gentleman’s sport. 

First and foremost, one should be aware of the rules surrounding the actual playing of the game. When starting a game, always make sure to shake the opponent’s hand and to wish them the best. Although competition can get heated, it is important to show respect to your opponent. Without opposition there is no competition and showing some appreciation for their participation is important. 

Another sportsmanship simplicity comes along with the end of the game. Regardless of the outcome, players should also shake their opponent’s hand after the final scores are tallied. Just as before, this handshake is a sign of respect between players. Each should be thankful for the opportunity to gather more experience and practice their skills. 

For spectators, the rules get a bit more complicated. Like golf, darts is a game that relies on concentration. Sound and movement both are large disruptions and can throw off a player’s throw or focus. By remaining quiet and standing out of view of the player, spectators are giving the player the best opportunity to focus on their throw. Celebration and reaction to throws are allowed to be expressed only after the third dart is thrown. 

Moving along to scoring rules, it is customary for players to tally and score their darts before pulling them from the board. By doing this, the player can not only better remember their score but also helps them avoid any arguments with opponents. The action of scoring your darts while they are still on the board allows you to accurately total them and shows your opponent that you are truthful in your scoring.

Not only should players respect their opponents, but they should also show respect and appreciation for their teammates. Although you may not be paired with the best player in the league, you should still try to be the best partner you can to them. By creating an open dialogue between the two of you of your plan of attack and cooperatively strategizing with one another, you can create a foundation of trust. Learn to work with both experienced and new players, each offers a new opportunity to learn. 

Perhaps the worst thing a player can do is be a sore loser. No one likes a sulky loser. Although the sting of defeat can burn, as a respectable player you should still congratulate your opponent on their victory. Within this same vein, being a respectable winner is equally important. No one likes a boastful winner. Congratulate your opponent on a good game and move along to the next match. 

Darts is a game that thrives on the polite and respectable attitudes displayed by its players. Despite being a seemingly simple game there is much more to darts than what meets the eye.