"Nathan Aspinall issues harsh critique on the viral darts referee: Keep him on the job"
Title: The Armchair Darts Community Roars - Over Opera-Singing Referee Franz Engerer's Antics
Franz Engerer, the charismatic, opera-singing referee, sends ripples through the darting world, stealing the spotlight even when the likes of Luke Littler are in play.
Engerer, affectionately referred to as 'German eye candy' by Laura Woods, has become the main drawcard at tournaments. His boyish good looks and vocal prowess have catapulted him to viral fame.
During a thrilling match between Andrew Gilding and Callan Rydz at the European Darts Trophy in the Netherlands, Engerer decided to kick things up a notch. His operatic rendition of a 180 score would have made The Royal Opera House proud - complete with vibrato.
Unsurprisingly, this eccentric display landed Engerer the internet spotlight. Social media was abuzz with reactions, predominantly akin to Marmite - loved by some and hated by others. Some viewers begged to ends his officiating career, urging, "get rid of that idiot."
However, others firmly believed he already boasted one of the best 180 calls in history.
Nathan Aspinall, the world No.8 and two-time World Darts Championship semi-finalist, shared mixed feelings about Engerer's style. While boarding a train to watch the game, Aspinall couldn't help but remark, "I actually don’t think I could play if he was reffing." And yet, he ended with a surprising plea, "Don't sack him. It's not for me."
Engerer takes the criticism in stride, acknowledging that his distinctive 180 call might not appeal to everyone. But he revels in the overwhelmingly positive feedback. "Most of the feedback has been really lovely," he shares. "People come up to me asking for photos, and that's just surreal."
In fact, Engerer's vocal talents have been cultivated over years of rigorous training. Having undergone countless singing lessons and performed in choirs since his seventh-grade days, Engerer's repertoire showcases a range of performances, from operas to musicals, and solos.
Engerer graced the darts scene at local galas and grassroots competitions, such as the PDC Europe Super League, before earning his stripes as a referee. The positive feedback he received from these smaller competitions paved the way for his cast application. His journey since then has been unparalleled.
Even in the nerve-wracking moments leading up to his Euro Tour debut, Engerer admits that he felt more anxious at his maiden gala event than that crucial career-defining moment.
[1] Engerer's rise to fame and his polarizing presence in the darting world signifies the increasing role of refereeing personalities in enhancing the entertainment appeal of the sport.
[2] Despite the divided opinion on Engerer's unconventional approach, there's no denying that his flair adds a unique spark to the darts scene.
[1] The Premier League of Darts could take a cue from the entertaining armchair darts community, as the opera-singing referee, Franz Engerer, showcases how a charismatic and unique refereeing style can elevate the entertainment value of sports like football.
[2] With his impressive vocal range, Engerer's jokingly operatic 180 calls have become viral sensations, dividing opinion much like the love-it-or-hate-it spread Marmite does.
[3] Engerer's vocal talents, cultivated over years of training, have not only made him a standout member of the darting community but also crossed over into the world of entertainment, with some viewers questioning if he could even star in operas.
[4] As the 'German eye candy' entertains sports lovers with his boyish good looks and operatic flair, he serves as a reminder that sometimes, the officiating personality can be just as captivating as the players themselves.
