The dreaded D-word

I play darts every week, not at an outstanding level, but I'd like to think I am competent enough. Yet, right now, I have never felt less confident about the state of my game.

For a number of years I have struggled to get my throw absolutely right, and I have persevered with different techniques and styles. But right now, I just can't get it right. There are times when I literally cannot get the darts out of my hand. I haven't wanted to use the dreaded D-word, for fear of it becoming an excuse for not playing well, but I really might have to come to terms that my problems are down to a bout of Dartitis.

When moving my arm back before the throw I am ok, then after that is where the problems start. Without being able to stop it, my shoulder will move itself up - to the point where my hand is almost above my head - then my hand does not want to let the dart go. Those that have seen my throw have commented on how snatchy and untidy it looks. Every single dart feels like a battle at the moment, and I feel myself really having to fight myself to get them in the board on target. Every now and then I still throw the odd 100 and 140, but it's not nearly as fluid as it should be, and I am tempted to think it is more luck than skill when I do come up with good scores or doubles.

I don't know about anyone else that may have had the same, but I feel like I am in a Catch-22. I don't want to practise because I know I won't throw very well if I do, and to be honest I am not sure I am enjoying it, yet if I don't practise at all, then my game will disappear completely and the problem will get worse.

Has anyone out there suffered from a similar crisis of confidence, and how did you get out of it? Are there any techniques to get a steady and smooth action back, or is it literally a case of just throw and hope it gets better? Or would a break from the game for a week or so be beneficial? Any help would be appreciated.

Valentine's Day sucks

Today is the 14th February, Valentine's Day. Or as I prefer to call it, Tuesday. Honestly, how has it become so big?

It is amazing how this day has sucked in, and continues to suck in, couples who think they have to spend money on one day to prove their love for each other. I always think that if you love someone that much, you can tell them any day of the year. I would like to think it means more when she isn't expecting it. I shouldn't have to be told to by the card companies and retailers who, lets face it, are desperate to make some money in that awkward time of the year between Christmas and Easter. They say it is the most romantic day of the year. Nonsense, if anything it is the least.

You may think that this blog - some may want to call it a rant - screams of jealousy on my part due to the fact that I am single, but far from it. I don't think so anyway. Those that know me know that my relationship history isn't the greatest, in fact the last time I had a girlfriend on the 14th February was four years ago - don't ask how that went - and even then I was uncomfortable at the idea of having to splash out on a gift, a meal and a bottle of Pinot Grigio. I would like to think I had enough about me to be able to do that any time of the year, although maybe my discomfort at having to spend some money was the reason she finished with me, haha.

Nothing against those couples who are spending tonight in each other's company, but don't rub it in to the grumpy old singletons amongst us. Besides, I have got plans of my own tonight, I have gone and booked a table at my favourite venue. Now, where did I leave my Snooker cue?