Owen Roelofs looks back on first Pro Tour year: ''I have gained experience now, next year bang''

Owen Roelofs picked up his Tour Card at the beginning of the year, but failed to perform enough in his debut year to make it to the World Darts Championship. The 22-year-old Dutchman was a guest on the podcast 'Dartpraat', where he talked about his experiences in his first year on the Pro Tour.

For Roelofs, it was a surprise that he managed to grab his Tour Card in January. ''I didn't think I was going to make it for sure, but I knew it was possible.'' Roelofs managed to reach the quarterfinals on the first two days of Q School, where he beat names like Gian van Veen, Richard Veenstra and Berry van Peer.''The European Q School is really good though. Many players there just play WDF and are extremely good.''

About his first year on the Pro Tour, Roelofs was clear. ''It was instructive. I lost a lot of matches that I should have won. I've gained experience now, and next year I'll have a blast.'' Roelofs did manage to beat some big names like Gary Anderson and RossSmith on the Pro Tour this year. ''I played better this year against big names like Gary Anderson and so on, but then you lose to names you don't really need to lose to.'' What Roelofs could have done better is difficult to answer. ''I think my preparation is always good. I wouldn't change my rhythm.''

About the upcoming season, Roelofs is hopeful. ''I have to win 70,000 pounds, it is possible. We are going to go at it full force again in February, train a lot, throw a lot of tournaments and do my best.'' Roelofs does hope to be at the Alexandra Palace next year.'I really hope to make it to the World Darts Championship. If you just have a solid year you just have to be in the top 64 of the Pro Tour ranking I think.''

Should Roelofs lose his Tour Card next year, and have to return to Q-school, he faces that with confidence. ''I do then have the two years of experience on the Pro Tour with me.At Q-School then you are not afraid of anyone, since you have already played against all the big names.''