Benito van de Pas, once a prominent figure in professional darts known as ‘Big Ben’, is seriously considering a return to the sport. After stepping away due to personal challenges and a loss of passion, he now aims to enter Q-School next year, signaling a potential comeback to the professional circuit. This move has fans excited about seeing the former world number 26 back on the oche.
The Rise and Retreat of “Big Ben”
Benito van de Pas, affectionately known as “Big Ben” in the darts world, was once a formidable force on the professional circuit. His career highlights include reaching the quarter-finals of prestigious tournaments like the Grand Slam of Darts and the European Championship. At his peak, he climbed to an impressive world number 26, showcasing his immense talent and potential.
However, after a period of intense competition and constant travel, Van de Pas experienced a significant downturn. He openly admitted to battling a loss of passion for the game, coupled with personal challenges that made it difficult to maintain the required focus and dedication. This led him to step away from the professional stage, taking a much-needed break from the relentless demands of top-tier darts.
A Rekindled Flame: The Path Back to the Oche
After a period of absence, a spark has reignited Van de Pas’s love for darts. His journey back began modestly, by participating in smaller, local tournaments. It was here, away from the intense pressure of the big stage, that he rediscovered the pure joy of the game.
“I want to throw Q-School next year,” he stated, a clear indication of his serious intent. This announcement signals a pivotal moment for “Big Ben” and his fans, who have eagerly awaited his return.
Understanding Q-School: The Gateway to Professional Darts
For those unfamiliar, Q-School (Qualifying School) is the primary pathway for aspiring dart players to earn a coveted PDC Tour Card. This card grants players access to all Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) Pro Tour events for a period of two years, allowing them to compete against the world’s best and climb the rankings.
Q-School is an incredibly demanding event, typically held over several days. Players compete in multiple tournaments, with points awarded based on their performance. The top performers secure their Tour Cards, while others might gain associate member status, allowing them to participate in certain events. It’s a true test of skill, consistency, and mental fortitude.
Preparation and Mindset: Ready for the Challenge
Van de Pas isn’t taking this potential comeback lightly. He understands the immense challenge ahead and is committed to thorough preparation. This involves:
- Intensive Practice: Dedicating significant time to honing his throwing technique and consistency.
- Physical Conditioning: Ensuring he’s in optimal shape to endure the long hours and mental strain of professional play.
- Mental Rejuvenation: Crucially, he’s focusing on maintaining the enjoyment of the game, aiming to play with less self-imposed pressure and more freedom.
His renewed passion and disciplined approach suggest that “Big Ben” is not just returning to make up the numbers, but to genuinely compete. The darts community will undoubtedly be watching closely to see if Benito van de Pas can reclaim his place among the elite and write a new chapter in his career.
Source: Based on an article from News – Dartsnieuws.com.
