Name: Michael Kleiner

Age: 47

Nickname: Bionic Mike
 

Hometown:  Hendersonville, North Carolina

Darts Used: Wimanu Stratos 22gr. Long Nylon shaft with a Robson Plus Flights.

Occupation: Logistics Warehouse Manager at Textile Company

Motto: “Never out of a game and keep within 140 of my opponent, 140 back or 120 back I'm still in it”

​

Favorite High Out:132

Favorite Double: 10


Welcome, folks, to a hilarious and entertaining interview with the one and only Michael Kleiner, who never fails to bring the fun! Get ready to be entertained as we dive into his world of darts.

If Michael could have any superpower while playing darts, what would it be and why? He comically replied, "Oh, I just want to keep playing forever! So, if I had to choose a superpower, it would be stamina. I need endless energy to keep throwing those darts till eternity!"

 

Now, let's shift gears and talk about some memorable moments from Michael's darting career. He shared, "Back in 1995 or 1996, one of the first tournaments I attended left a lasting impact. I had the pleasure of watching Larry Butler and Gary Mawson play. The way they interacted with us was incredible. Believe it or not, these guys were approachable! I even got the chance to play against Roger Carter and Pat Hewitt. And let's not forget meeting Danny Baggish 11 years ago and becoming buddies with Robbie Phillips. These guys not only make the game better but also make you a better player!"

 

If you had to choose a theme song to play every time he stepped up to the oche, he enthusiastically said, "I'd go with 'Believer' by Imagine Dragons. You see, it's not about always being the winner; it's about fighting your way through and leaving a memorable impression. They'll remember the fighter!"

 

Speaking of goals and aspirations, Michael expressed, "I aim to be more consistent in my darting career. I want to advance in DPFL, climb up to D2 and D1, and become a force to be reckoned with. I'm a regular at many tournaments, so placing higher in some major events and improving my DPFL rankings are definitely on my radar!"

 

Now, let's bring a touch of fiction into the mix. If Michael could play a game of darts against any fictional character, who would it be and why? Being a big Lord of the Rings fan, he exclaimed, "Legolas from Lord of the Rings! That elf from the woodland is always dead-on with his arrows. I'd love to challenge him in a darting showdown!"

 

Next up, let's talk about the most bizarre or unexpected place where Michael has played darts. He reminisced, "About a year ago, during the World Para Dart Tournaments, I found myself in a quaint little bar in Belgium called Taverne de klokke, or the Clock Tower. It had two pool tables and two dartboards. It was like stepping into a hidden gem!"

 

Switching back to a serious note, we discuss the impact of being a sponsored player with DPFL Darts on Michael's darting career and overall experience in the darting community. He exclaimed, "It has been an outstanding and overwhelming experience for me! Being a sponsored player has made things easier and attracted a lot of attention. So far, everything has been well received, and I'm grateful for the support."

 

Speaking of sponsors, Michael proudly announced, "My sponsors are none other than DPFL Darts! They've been with me every step of the way, and I couldn't be more grateful."

 

Michael's role with Para Darts is impressive, and he explains it with pride, "I am currently the captain of the Para Darts team, whether it's for online or live events. It's a real honor to represent the United States in this role. I've been the team captain for four years now. World Para Darts, started by another DPFL member, Lora Josy, is hosting a tournament next week in Charlotte, with participants from Ohio and Georgia. Every other year, the USA takes a team to the World Para Darts Championships, consisting of two standing players, two wheelchair players, one ambulatory player, and a coach. It's an incredible opportunity!"

 

Now, let's get back to the fun with a question about a signature dart move. Michael grins and says, "Picture this: as I take out the last dart, I'd perform a three-tiered fist pump spin move! It's all about embracing my stamina superpower and celebrating in style!"

 

And to wrap things up, in a totally random statement, Michael blurts out, "The pastrami was great in NYC!"


Well, there you have it, folks—a glimpse into the hilarious world of Michael Kleiner, the DPFL sponsored player who never fails to bring a smile to your face. Stay tuned for more epic moments as he continues to conquer the darting world with his unique personality and love for the game!