Disc Golf: Fun for Students and Staff
Disc golf is just like traditional golf, but with a “flare,” and the outdoor recreational activity is gaining popularity, including with students at Bluefield University.
Just like traditional golf, your objective in disc golf is to throw flying discs instead of balls into a series of baskets, trying to complete each hole in the fewest strokes possible. At every course you play, there will be a starting point or tee where you throw your disc as far and as close as you can to the hole.
BU sophomore Zach Hafer has enjoyed disc golfing and has started encouraging both his friends here and in his hometown to play.
“I have enjoyed playing and feel like I have improved a lot from where I first started,” Hafer said. His favorite memory from disc golf so far was when he made a birdie (one under par) during his first time playing the back nine at Princeton City Park. Hafer recommends that everyone try the course on campus as there are less trees to avoid, and it’s great practice for those just starting.
For students who are interested in getting involved with this relaxing, yet exciting hobby, there are several ways you can get started, but first you must know the basics of the game. Your first step should be finding a disc and getting the feel of it, so you can begin practicing your throw. Finding your preferred way of throwing is crucial when developing your skills. Backhand and forehand throws are the two practical options that allow you to throw hard while also getting a good angle. Each disc is different and can vary on how it flies with the intended throw. The best way for finding your preference is to take your disc to an open field, throw both techniques, and find which is more to your liking. You can also look up the name of your disc on YouTube to see how it flies after you have decided how you like to throw.
The next step is finding a course to play. At Bluefield University, we are blessed to have an on-campus course that is available for everyone to play at any time. Hole one starts in the quad beside Lansdell Hall. If you are interested in getting off campus and finding more courses to explore, you can download the Udisc app on the Google Play store or Apple app store to find courses near campus. Downloading Udisc comes with other handy options to enhance your play, such as a map to see where the next hole is, the number of throws to make par, and even a scorecard to play with friends and add a bit of friendly competition.
Dr. Joe Saunders, a professor of chemistry at BU, is regularly active in the disc golf community. Dr. Saunders says his favorite place to play is at Pipestem State Park in Pipestem, West Virginia.
“The scenery is beautiful, especially during this season,” Dr. Saunders said. This course is challenging, but also quite fun. Dr. Saunders said his favorite play on the course was when he scored an albatross (two throws) on the only par five hole. He also said that there are many opportunities to get an eagle (two throws under par) at this course.
When looking for discs to start or add to your disc collection, you should try to get a distance driver, mid-range disc, and a putter. Discs have different flight patterns and can vary on preference of throw, so make sure you are aware before buying. DDM Disc Golf is a small business in Tazewell, Virginia, that sells new and used discs at a reasonable price, starting as low $5, while having high quality and unique designs. You can also find high-quality discs at Dick’s Sporting Goods or other sporting goods stores around. If students are looking for an opportunity to test out their skills before investing in their own discs, there are a variety of discs that students can borrow and return in the BU Student Activities Center (SAC).
Pictured above are the discs that can be found in the SAC for student use. Picture provided by Dr. Joe Saunders.
Dr. Saunders encourages BU students to get involved in disc golf. In fact, he said he’s open to play a round with any BU students who are interested. Students can reach out to Dr. Saunders by email at jsaunders@bluefield.edu.
“Give it a try, keep score, and after a few rounds you will be amazed at the improvements you make,” he said. “I am hooked. I’ve played 99 rounds on campus. It is much more fun with at least one competitor or companion.”