How to Get Your Town/City to Put in a Disc Golf Course: A Comprehensive Guide

1. Introduction

Disc Golf: A Sport for the Modern Age

At its core, disc golf merges the age-old pleasure of traditional golf with the modern simplicity of a flying disc, often referred to as a frisbee. This sport, playable by individuals of all ages and skill levels, involves players aiming to complete a course in the fewest throws. The target? Elevated metal baskets with hanging chains.

The Unyielding Benefits of Disc Golf

What sets disc golf apart from many other recreational activities is its versatility, low barrier to entry, and the minimal environmental impact of its courses. A well-designed disc golf course requires little alteration to the existing landscape and serves as a multifunctional space within a community.

The Imperative of Public Disc Golf Courses

Public disc golf courses are more than just sports facilities. They are embodiments of community spirit, inclusivity, and a collective stride towards fostering recreational activities that cater to a diverse populace. As urban spaces become increasingly cramped, there's a rising need for innovative recreational solutions – and disc golf courses perfectly fit the bill.

2. Research and Benefits

To understand the momentum behind disc golf's meteoric rise and its profound impact on communities, we delve into its multifaceted benefits.

2.1 The Rising Popularity of Disc Golf

Over the past decade, disc golf has soared in global recognition. The Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) has documented a steady increase in memberships and sanctioned events. Furthermore, the proliferation of disc golf content on social media platforms and dedicated forums attest to its growing fan base and enthusiastic community.

2.2 Economic Benefits: Tourism and Local Business Boosts

When a town or city becomes home to a disc golf course, it doesn't just attract local players. Tournaments, league plays, and casual games draw enthusiasts from neighbouring regions, often leading to increased foot traffic to local businesses. Hotels, restaurants, and even local disc shops can witness a surge in customers, stimulating the local economy.

2.3 Health and Wellness: Encouraging Outdoor Activity

In an age of screens and sedentary lifestyles, disc golf emerges as an accessible way to engage in physical activity. The sport offers cardiovascular benefits from walking the course, combined with the aerobic activity of throwing. Moreover, the game's strategic component also stimulates mental wellness.

2.4 Environmental Benefits: Low Impact and Coexistence

Unlike many sports that require extensive alterations to the landscape, disc golf courses often integrate seamlessly into natural terrains – forests, meadows, hillsides. This harmonious blend preserves the environment while also providing players with diverse and challenging terrains. Furthermore, these courses can use public spaces to efficiently coexist with hiking trails, picnic areas, and other park activities.

2.5 Community Building: A Gathering Place for All Ages

At its heart, disc golf is a social sport. Courses become melting pots where the young and old, novices and pros, can congregate, learn, and share. Families can spend a day out on the course, schools can introduce the sport in physical education, and local clubs can organize community events. In essence, the disc golf course becomes a nexus for community bonding.

3. Initial Assessment

Embarking on the journey to establish a disc golf course starts with a clear, well-researched assessment. It's essential to understand the local landscape in terms of physical space and community inclination.

3.1 Potential Locations in Your Town/City

Assess Available Spaces: Explore public parks, unused land, or other community spaces.
Consider Accessibility: The location should be easily reachable for a majority of residents.
Check for Zoning and Land Use Restrictions: Consult with the town/city's planning or zoning office.

3.2 Size and Layout Considerations

Scale of the Course: Decide whether you want a 9-hole, 18-hole, or larger course.
Terrain Variety: A mix of open fields, wooded areas, and elevation changes can make the course more interesting.
Space for Amenities: Consider room for parking, restrooms, and picnic areas.

3.3 Assessing Community Interest (Surveys, Online Polls)

Online Platforms: Use social media, community websites, or platforms like SurveyMonkey to gauge interest.
Local Community Centers: Host informational sessions or workshops.
Collaborate with Local Schools or Colleges: Gauge interest among younger demographics.

4. Forming a Committee

A dedicated team can drive the initiative forward, ensuring that tasks are well-distributed and milestones achieved.

4.1 Gathering Interested Individuals

Leverage Social Media: Create groups or events to gather enthusiasts.
Host Interest Meetings: Allow residents to learn more and sign up.
Engage Local Businesses: They can be stakeholders in the project's success.

4.2 Assigning Roles and Responsibilities

Leader/Chairperson: Drives the project, makes decisions, and delegates responsibilities.
Research and Planning: In charge of surveys, location scouting, and design.
Finance and Funding: Focuses on budgets, sponsorships, and fundraising.
Communications: Manages outreach, public relations, and community engagement.

4.3 Regular Meetings to Track Progress

Set Clear Agendas: Prioritize tasks for each meeting.
Document Progress: Maintain minutes for transparency and tracking.
Stay Open to Feedback: Ensure all committee members have a voice.

5. Creating a Proposal

A well-structured proposal can make all the difference when approaching local authorities or potential sponsors.

5.1 Develop a Clear Vision (with Diagrams or Maps if Possible)

Course Layout: Include tentative designs or maps.
Highlight Key Features: Describe unique aspects, such as specific holes, viewpoints, or amenities.

5.2 Estimate Costs: Land Acquisition, Equipment, Maintenance

Initial Setup: Costs of baskets, tee pads, signs, and other essential equipment.
Ongoing Maintenance: Predicted yearly costs for mowing, repairs, and improvements.
Potential Expansion: Consider future plans or phases.

5.3 Funding and Sponsorship Possibilities

Local Business Partnerships: Identify businesses that might benefit from the course.
Grants: Research available local, state, or national grants for recreational projects.
Crowdfunding: Platforms like Kickstarter or GoFundMe can engage the community financially.

5.4 Anticipated Benefits (Revisit Section 2)

Recap the Advantages: Remind stakeholders of the economic, health, environmental, and community benefits.
Share Testimonials or Case Studies: If possible, provide examples of successful disc golf courses in similar communities.

6. Building Community Support

To ensure the sustainability and success of a disc golf course, it's crucial to galvanize local support. This helps in immediate implementation and ensures the course remains a cherished community asset for years to come.

6.1 Organize Disc Golf Demo Days or Clinics

Invite Expert Players: Showcase the sport's nuances and techniques.
Offer Free Lessons: Introduce beginners to the basics of disc golf.
Provide Equipment: Ensure new players can easily participate.

6.2 Host Community Meetings for Feedback

Open Forums: Allow residents to voice concerns, suggestions, or show support.
Showcase Benefits: Highlight health, economic, and community-building advantages.
Engage the Youth: Target schools or youth clubs for increased participation.

6.3 Promote Through Local Media (Newspapers, Radio, TV)

Press Releases: Announce events, progress, or major milestones.
Opinion Pieces: Highlight the multifaceted benefits of the course.
Interviews: Engage with local personalities who can champion the cause.

6.4 Engage on Social Media: Create a Dedicated Page or Group

Regular Updates: Post-construction progress, event announcements, and community stories.
Engaging Content: Share videos, tutorials, and disc golf success stories.
Community Feedback: Use polls, surveys, or open questions to gauge sentiment and gather suggestions.

7. Approaching Local Authorities

Gaining the green light from local authorities often proves to be the most pivotal step in establishing a disc golf course.

7.1 Identify the Decision-Makers: Parks Department, City Council, etc.

Understand the Hierarchy: Know who has the final say on recreational projects.
Engage Early: Foster relationships before formal proposal presentations.

7.2 Presenting Your Proposal: Tips for a Successful Pitch

Be Concise: Respect their time by getting to the point.
Use Visuals: Maps, diagrams, or even virtual tours can paint a clear picture.
Show Community Support: Highlight petitions, survey results, or letters of support.

7.3 Handling Objections and Concerns

Be Prepared: Anticipate potential concerns, like safety or environmental impact.
Stay Open-minded: Listen actively and be willing to adapt or compromise.
Provide Examples: Cite successful disc golf courses in similar communities.

7.4 Offering Solutions: Maintenance, Security, Funding Sources

Volunteer Programs: Showcase plans for community-driven maintenance.
Safety Measures: Describe planned safety signs, course design, or potential patrols.
Detail Funding Plans: Assure authorities of your proactive approach to budgeting and fundraising.

8. Fundraising and Sponsorships

Implementing a disc golf course, especially a high-quality one, requires funds. There are diverse avenues available to gather the necessary resources.

8.1 Traditional Fundraising Events: Bake Sales, Car Washes, Tournaments

Community Events: Engage locals in enjoyable activities that also raise money.
Disc Golf Tournaments: Charge an entry fee and offer prizes, attracting enthusiasts and raising funds simultaneously.

8.2 Crowdfunding Platforms

Engage Broader Audience: Platforms like Kickstarter can reach beyond the local community.
Offer Incentives: Early access, named tee pads, or branded merchandise for contributors.

8.3 Local Business Partnerships and Sponsorships

Offer Visibility: In exchange for funding, businesses can get their logos on tee signs, scorecards, or event banners.
Engage Local Disc Shops: They directly benefit and might be more willing to sponsor.

8.4 Grant Opportunities for Recreational Projects

Local and National Grants: Research opportunities for recreational or community-building grants.
Engage Grant Writers: A well-written proposal can increase the chances of success.

9. Design and Development

The actual design and development phase is where your vision starts to come to life. Ensuring a well-thought-out and inclusive design can set the stage for the course's long-term success and popularity.

9.1 Hiring a professional disc golf course designer

Why it Matters: Professional designers bring expertise in creating challenging and enjoyable courses, optimizing land use, and ensuring safety.
Steps to Take:
1. Research and identify reputable designers.
2. Interview potential designers and review their previous projects.
3. Discuss the budget, vision, and specific needs of your community.

9.2 Seeking community input on design

Why it Matters: Engaging the community ensures the course caters to local needs and preferences, fostering a sense of ownership among residents.
Steps to Take:
1. Host public design workshops or consultations.
2. Use online platforms to gather feedback on proposed designs.
3. Involve local disc golf players for expert advice.

9.3 Considerations for multi-use parks

Why it Matters: Multi-use parks cater to various recreational activities, so ensuring compatibility and minimal conflicts is essential.
Steps to Take:
1. Identify other activities in the park and their peak times.
2. Design course layout to avoid high-traffic areas or potential conflict zones.
3. Establish clear signage to guide both disc golfers and other park users.

9.4 Safety and accessibility guidelines

Why it Matters: Ensuring the course is safe and accessible increases participation and minimizes potential liabilities.
Steps to Take:
1. Consult ADA guidelines to make the course inclusive for individuals with disabilities.
2. Establish buffer zones around hazards and high-speed areas.
3. Consider multiple tees and basket placements for varying skill levels.

10. Course Maintenance and Upkeep

A well-maintained course provides a great playing experience and demonstrates the community's commitment to its recreational assets.

10.1 Volunteer programs

Why it Matters: Engaging volunteers reduces maintenance costs and fosters a sense of community responsibility.
Steps to Take:
1. Organize regular clean-up and maintenance days.
2. Establish a roster system for tasks like trash collection or disc retrieval.
3. Offer incentives or recognition for regular volunteers.

10.2 Sponsorship opportunities for course improvements

Why it Matters: Local businesses can provide funding or in-kind support, improving the course while also gaining positive local exposure.
Steps to Take:
1. Identify potential course improvement needs.
2. Approach local businesses with sponsorship packages.
3. Recognize sponsors with signage or special events.

10.3 Regular review of safety and course conditions

Why it Matters: Regular reviews ensure the course remains safe and meets the evolving needs of players.
Steps to Take:
1. Schedule monthly or quarterly walk-throughs.
2. Gather feedback from regular players on course conditions.
3. Make necessary adjustments based on feedback and observed wear-and-tear.

10.4 Hosting events to maintain community engagement

Why it Matters: Events can attract new players, raise funds, and keep the community involved.
Steps to Take:
1. Organize annual tournaments or leagues.
2. Host beginner clinics to introduce new players to the sport.
3. Collaborate with local schools or youth groups for special events.

By focusing on meticulous design and consistent maintenance, communities can ensure their disc golf courses remain vibrant, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.

11. Conclusion

After traversing the intricate journey of conceptualizing, advocating for, and implementing a disc golf course, it becomes essential to step back and appreciate the immediate achievements and the long-term benefits such projects confer upon a community.

The Long-Term Benefits of a Disc Golf Course

Disc golf courses are more than just spaces to play; they are hubs of community engagement and green refuges in urban landscapes:

Economic Advancement: Beyond the initial surge of local business during construction, disc golf courses can boost tourism, draw tournaments, and increase patronage to nearby establishments.
Promotion of Health and Wellbeing: Offering a recreational outlet, disc golf courses actively encourage residents to venture outdoors, engage in physical activity, and focus on mental strategies, which cumulatively contribute to improved public health.
Strengthened Community Bonds: Courses become places where friendships are forged, families spend quality time, and community members from all walks of life can intersect and interact, fostering a more cohesive and inclusive society.
Environmental Impact: Designed with sensitivity to the environment, these courses can double as green lungs, preserving flora and fauna and offering educational opportunities about local ecosystems.

Encouragement to Persevere Through Challenges

No doubt, the path to establishing a community disc golf course can be fraught with hurdles, from skeptical stakeholders to budgetary constraints. However, the tangible and intangible rewards reaped upon its completion are monumental.

Every challenge faced and overcome is a testament to a community's dedication to enriching its recreational landscape and enhancing the quality of life for its residents. The collaborative effort required for such an endeavour strengthens community ties, forging bonds of cooperation and shared vision.

In times of doubt, it helps to visualize the joy and vibrancy a completed course will bring, the laughter of families playing together, the camaraderie among players, and the serene moments of individuals practicing their shots against the backdrop of a setting sun. Such moments of shared joy and contentment are worth every effort.

In conclusion, the quest to introduce a disc golf course in a community is both a journey and a destination. The journey is filled with lessons, collaborations, and sometimes challenges, but the destination offers a communal space that resonates with the spirit of play, nature, and togetherness. Embrace the process, persevere through obstacles, and always keep the community's best interests at heart. The legacy of a disc golf course is enduring, and its positive ripples will be felt for generations to come.