How to run tungsten darts league? Some do it all at the beginning, while others put off parts of the process until forced to. Over a period of years, all of these topics will eventually have to be addressed, one way or another.
(This article is based on the Editor's more than 39 years of experience with tungsten dart leagues in the USA. Most of the topics will apply anywhere, but some details may vary in other countries.)
Name the Organization. This may include a designation such as League, Club, Association, Organization, Federation, etc. It should be unique, not the same or similar enough to confuse with any other entity. Make it short enough to say easily aloud, and to fit a letterhead. It won't hurt if abbreviations and the initials are catchy and don't make any obscene acronym. Think about how the name will look as a domain name, and check on whether that domain name might be available.
Type of League. Will this be a "Trophy" tungsten darts league, or a "Money" tungsten darts league? In the USA, many or most soft-tip leagues seem to play for monetary prizes, while the majority of steel-tip leagues appear to play for trophies. Keep in mind that whenever money becomes involved in competition, the likelihood of arguments is greatly increased. As with marriages, arguing over money is one of the chief causes of failed leagues.
Organizational structure. If money is going to be collected for dues or awards, it is a very good idea to formalize a legal structure for the group. This may be setup as a business, a partnership, corporation, or non-profit entity. Different states & countries will have different options available, as well as legal requirements to meet. In the USA, many leagues organize as Not-For Profit Corporations, to reduce both personal and tax liability. Elect officers as needed to run the league, and as may be required by law for the type of organization.
Officers. How many will be needed, and their positions. This can be a complex issue, as personalities often come into play. A new group will nearly always underestimate the amount of work needed to run a tungsten dart league. And, no matter how many officers are elected, it is simple fact that just 3 or 4 people will probably end up doing at least 80% of the work. The legal status of the league may dictate a certain minimum number of officers, as well as their responsibilities. Keep in mind that the in the eyes of the law, the President and Treasurer of an Incorporated tungsten darts organization may be legally quite similar, for example, to the corporate officers of Enron Corporation. Take the legal responsibilities seriously!
Attorney. This is one of the most commonly skipped steps. Unfortunately, not getting legal guidance at the beginning can lead to incredibly messy problems in the future. Ask around among the darts players. Many organizations have a member in the legal profession, who will volunteer services, or at least offer a discount. Lawyers are constantly called on to help setup new businesses and organizations, and will greatly ease the process of starting up the new league.
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