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I’ll be honest and say that some members were disappointed when they heard the ADA Championship would be returning to St. Louis for the 2010 Nationals. That dissatisfaction quickly faded when the members checked into the Sheraton Chalet and took a tour of Westport. Throughout the weekend comments and praise was made about the location and what it had to offer during downtime or for some late night fun. Shane Meeks shouted from the Chalet outdoor pool “This is the best location!” as ADA CEO Gloria Remick and ADA Member Services employee Sarah Coyne walked along the paved path that separated the pool with a stream filled with real ducks. Everyone was quick to report that everything they needed was within walking distance and the beer was cheap too!
Although the city and most of the events were the same there were a lot of other changes at this year’s National Championship. First of all, Glenn Remick was absent in the physical form but was always present in the staff, members, vendors and spectators hearts. A table was set up in his honor and remembrance that featured pictures, stories and an opportunity for people to share their favorite memory or story of Glenn. “It was weird not having him around but overall this year was a success and I think he would be proud of how it turned out” said ADA Rep Tiffany Paschedag.
Another change to this year’s Nationals (thanks to Mike White) was the brand new stanchions that were made especially for the ADA and our steel tip players! Usually a borrowed piece of equipment, the ADA decided the championship room needed to look more like a professional event and less like a tournament. If you didn’t notice this year they will continue to make an appearance at all ADA steel tip events in the future. With the Shelti Eye2 boards and the brand new stanchions the ballroom has never looked so good. The control center was moved back into the Championship room where the Leader board was also stationed. On a totally different level of the hotel, Registration and Payout was up one flight of stairs next to the Pro / Top Seed Lounge that later served as the Finals room. These changes created an easier flow of traffic for the members and provided purpose for each location.
Along with the familiar favorite events a couple new additions were added to this year’s schedule of events. One of the new events was geared towards members who brought their families. After the Westport Walking Tour on Tuesday, the ADA had their first Adult / Youth event sponsored by Monster energy drink. It was a fun event and we hope to see more participants next year! Two popular events that gave 100% payouts were the Draw Doubles that were held Tuesday – Saturday night and the “Bud Mini’s” that started anytime 16 players were available.
This year, the event took place August 10th – 15th was sponsored by Budweiser and the Championship’s payout was $54,000. Along with the monies that were handed out the winners received plaques for placing in the Top 4 of most events. Even the plaques featured new color backgrounds and font. Division Rep Singles received Mugs, 1st & 2nd place teams received plaques and large trophies and the youth winners received a plaque and a can of Monster energy drink. “I had so much fun this year! I placed in the team open event and one of the steel draw events. I was able to get a blue and green plaque. They will look good with the rest of my awards but also stand out because of the new colors. I like that” said ADA DR Drew Tustin.
The ADA had a successful year with this year’s National Championship and we look forward to providing you with an even better one next year. 2011 will be the 20th year for the ADA and its members. It is an exciting time and we are Aiming for the Future of darts & the ADA!!
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