The Match Dart Mindset explains simple, effective mental strategies and focusing techniques used by expert players, so you can thrive in matches regardless of how long you’ve been playing, or the level you compete at.

Pressure-proofing your mindset means more you-on-a-good-day in matches, not just in practice. You’ll learn how to play with relaxed focus and enjoy the game and we all know a happy darts player is a winning darts player.

A robust mental game is essential in competitive darts. Unmanaged thoughts and emotions lead to inconsistency. Tightening up is worse the more we overthink and increasingly messes with performance.

Tension from overthinking stems from both stress and excitement. Stress from the pressure to perform, or excitement can follow a 9-darter or an impressive checkout. One is clearly a better problem to have than the other but both disrupt an otherwise reliable, well-practised throw and knock you off your stride.

Distractions happen when playing in public — whether that’s down the pub, at Youth Academy, or at tournaments. So not being able to bring your practice game to matches is a common problem. Performance dips can become more pronounced the deeper you get into a match, as perceived pressure increases. You may start well, only to be hijacked by tension creeping into your throw at the most important moments, such as set dart or match dart.

Common problems this book helps you overcome:

• Getting psyched out by lower-ranked players
• Getting psyched out by higher-ranked players
• Losing focus and concentration
• Nerves causing sweating, shaking hands, feeling twitchy, or uptight
• Feeling the weight of others’ or your own expectations
• Dartitis
• Performance slumps
• Playing under pressure

If you or those you coach have experienced any of the above then it’s time to get busy pressure-proofing your mindset for match day.