Darts league is back

Fall is in the air, and retiree darts are zooming at targets at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Cloquet. Friday morning dart league has resumed play from now through April.

The Major League Baseball playoffs are nearly, but not quite, as stressful as the three games played each week by these seniors. The games - with randomly picked teams each week - begin every Friday at 9 a.m. at Our Savior's Lutheran Church's Fellowship Hall on the corner of 12th Street and Doddridge Avenue.

"We have guys from 60 to 90 years old. Players are with a different bunch each week on their team," commissioner Ray Wiles said. "Depending on the numbers present, we usually get four players per team at each of the three targets."

The darts are thrown underhand but there are still variations on method. Players have various speeds, arches, facial expressions and concentration. There are also the occasional chicken calls, cup adjustments or other heckling.

Mike Berthiume is one of the favorite players and teammates. Sure, Mike can hit a clutch double or homer, but more importantly, he brings fresh homemade cookies and other treats for all players every week. And Bruce usually has some cheese and crackers or other snacks to go along with coffee for all players.

Of course, another weekly highlight is the singing by preschool kids during an intermission. They usually blast out a one- or two-song performance to the delight of the retirees. Ninety-year-olds and 3-year-olds interacting ... very special.

New players are welcome, no equipment required, and cost is $2. Just show up.

Steve Korby's interest in writing goes back to when he was in fourth grade and editor of the Scan-Satellite school newspaper in Scanlon. Steve loves sports, especially golf. He welcomes human interest stories and tales regarding Carlton County residents, projects, history, and plans.