James Wade column: I’ve won loads during 20 years as pro but I’m learning more than ever
When I made my TV debut in 2003, I’m not sure I thought I would be writing this column two decades later, with double figures of TV titles under my belt and many other PDC titles to go with them.
I learned a lesson in that first TV appearance. I took control of the match, built confidence and had match darts – but I wobbled at the wrong time and let my opponent back into the game and ultimately ended up losing three sets to two (against Dennis Harbour).
Since that day I don’t think I have stopped learning and, as I embark on year 20, that is more the case than ever before.
My life is about learning. Learning that I was different. Learning that I didn’t understand myself sometimes, let alone expect other people to. And learning how to balance my complex mental health issues with the very strange world of TV, darts and travelling the world.
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In 2022 I honestly think I did more learning than ever. I started to realise that I needed to have far more impact outside of darts and set up building my relationship with Bipolar UK and forge a link with some ADHD charities.
It is something that has brought me great joy and given me a far greater understanding of some of the problems they have (length of time to get a diagnosis for instance).
I also learnt how much I could expect from my physical and mental health when travelling and playing so much, and I have taken steps to address that, and to build a schedule that means that I can try and be my best every time I step on the oche.
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(Image: Getty Images)
Probably the biggest realisation I had was that just because some things have seemingly worked for me in the past, it doesn’t mean they are right for the future.
Amongst that, I count my attitude toward practice, which has been sketchy at best for over a decade now. I have consoled myself in the past with the thought that I have been able to win without the graft of practice, but the game is evolving, and I now know that to keep up I must move through the gears.
Don’t get me wrong, I am confident that I have been able to compete based on 75% of my ‘horsepower’, so going full throttle on practice, routine and commitment gives me every chance on getting back on top.
(Image: Getty Images)
Finally, I have learned what is important again. The birth of my second child Alfie reminded me that him, Arthur and Sammi are what I do all this for.
An introverted, anxious and sometimes very grumpy 39-year-old really has no place being in a pressured, spotlighting sports arena, but I have found a great way to provide for my family and I am determined to do it in the best way that I can.
I was hoping to kick-off the year in style at the Cazoo Masters with all this new-found wisdom and I didn’t. I lost confidence as soon as the game turned against me and had some doubt which is deadly at this level.
(Image: Getty Images)
The only way to beat that though is to be so prepared that there is no room for those doubts to creep in, and that is what I am working very hard at home to do.
I am also working with my PR and marketing team to build on my work away from tournaments, whether that be more fun exhibitions and formats, or supporting charities and media work.
It is important for me to be active and engaged, and if I can combine that with meaningful practice all the better. That is why I am excited that I will soon be able to announce some events which will see me competing for my country in a town or city near you! Watch out for my social media for more details.
Take care,
Wadey
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