So one of my favorite past times is playing disc golf. Now I know what you’re thinking. Chances are you know some really nice people that play disc golf that might be categorized as “hippies” or “too poor for real golf”. Let me first say that during my college days, I too had a disdain for disc golfers. I was into Ultimate Frisbee big time, but when it came to throwing these smaller “discs” that threw differently than a standard ultimate frisbee I quickly dismissed the wanna be sport. I didn’t wear tie dye or smoke anything so why would I play disc golf? This was short sighted on my part.

The Great Outdoors

Disc Golf (frisbee golf or “frolf”) is actually quite fun. I am definitely on the amateur side of disc golf, having just acquired my first disc golf bag, but even as an amateur there is so much to love about this hobby. Firstly, growing up with asthma and being a bit of a nerd, I’ve spent a large percentage of my free time indoors. However, as I’ve grown out of my asthma and started enjoying more and more outdoor activities, I love any and all excuses that force me to stay outside for hours at a time. Whether it’s hiking, biking, swimming, or just reading a book, it’s fun to be outside. Disc golf is an awesome way to just be outside, take your time, get in your steps, and enjoy your surroundings.

The Disc Golf Culture

Disc Golf is unapologetically the embarrassing cousin of actual golf. There are no posh or pretentious disc golf courses (that I’ve been to). You usually find yourself walking into a public park or past a baseball diamond to find your first tee box. Sometimes it’s tough finding a decent course that’s well kept and nearby but I’d suggest checking out DGCourseReview.com if you’re looking to locate a good disc golf course. Those who throw are pretty aware of the stereotypes attached to those who play this sport and don’t do much to fight it. It’s pretty common that in contrast to a polo and slacks, one just might play shirtless in shorts. Some might say that’s trashy but it’s that aspect of freedom and lack of expectations that I think is so appealing about this game. Even so, there is usually no shortage of etiquette on the disc golf course. Letting faster parties play through, waiting until the entire party in front of you has hit chain before proceeding to throw, helping search for lost discs are just some of the common ways courtesy is shown to others whilst playing.

A Ministry Tool

Outside of just enjoying the great outdoors, disc golf is a great way to waste time with friends. I’m a youth minister and any amount of time spent with my students that is not in front of any kind of screen is a win. That goes for friends and my wonderful wife too! Words get exchanged, back and forth in this kind of verbal dance called “conversation”. It is slow-paced, almost free (minus the cost of discs), and relaxing. When I’m stressing about something or a friend is, disc golf is a great way to play a game with ample amount of time to talk about whatever. When one of my best friends broke up with his girlfriend… we played disc golf. When one of my students wanted to talk about an argument they had with their parents… we played disc golf. You get the idea. Relationships are paramount to any ministry and this has been a great way to develop and enrich my relationships.

Conclusion

All in all, I realize disc golf isn’t for everyone. Some people are into spending hundreds of dollars on golf clubs and golf apparel. My current investment in my 6 years of playing disc golf is up to about $60. There aren’t any disc golf carts so there is a bit of walking involved, but if you’re needing an excuse to get a couple more steps into your day, that is perfect. Areas where the game isn’t as popular can make obtaining discs and finding a decent course difficult. Rules and score-keeping follows the same principles as real golf which makes it very easy to catch on.But if you’ve never tried it and there is a course near you, I highly encourage you to give it a throw.