There’s a lot of fun to be had playing disc golf, but it also takes a lot of practice. This is especially true for teenagers, who can often find themselves in a bind when it comes to scheduling time to play a sport they really enjoy.
Fortunately, disc golf tournaments offer a way to get young people involved in the sport and help them grow into confident, disciplined disc golfers. Many of these events also provide a chance for spectators to learn more about the game and watch athletes compete in their own sport.
In the case of a disc golf tournament, it’s important for parents to be aware of the rules of the game and what their children should expect on the course. This will help them feel comfortable with their child’s experience and keep everyone safe.
Some rules are specific to a specific course or event, so it’s best to check with the course director before heading out for your first round. For example, some courses have’mandatories’ or’mandos’ that require a disc to pass an obstacle in a certain way (e.g., a tree is marked as a right-mandatory). Failure to hit a mandatory is a one-stroke penalty and the thrower will have to play from his previous lie or a ‘drop zone’ if provided.
Safety is always an issue on any course, but it’s even more critical for younger kids to know the rules of the game and how to behave while on the course. This includes keeping their distance from other players and making sure they’re not touching plants, animals or trees.
Disc golf is a fast-paced sport, so it’s vital to be respectful of others. When you’re on a green, for instance, it is a good idea to wait until all players in front of you have finished before throwing your own disc. This ensures that other players don’t get distracted from their own throws and fumble their discs.
Be sure to follow all rules of the game and listen carefully to your instructor. These can include avoiding throwing when someone else is near or when there are signs warning that it’s against the rules to do so.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn as much as you can about the game. It will make the experience a lot more enjoyable for everyone.
Try a disc golf course in your area or join a local club to learn more about the game and to play with other like-minded disc golfers. There are many clubs and courses across the country, and it’s a great way to meet new friends and explore your local area!
Take It Slow
Depending on the age of your child, you may want to consider playing only a few holes or only a few rounds of disc golf. Most elementary-aged children are going to find the game pretty simple, and they might not have the attention span or patience for more than that.