Disc golf is a great way to spend your day outdoors. It’s also a fantastic hobby to share with friends and family, as disc golf courses are usually free of charge to play on. However, disc golf etiquette is important if you want to keep the game fun for everyone involved! This blog post will talk about disc golf etiquette dos and don’ts that will help keep your course clean, active, and enjoyable for everyone playing there.
1. Don’t take your frustrations about the game out on other players
We’ve all been there before – you just aren’t having your best game. Don’t let your disc golf etiquette slip because of this. Disc golf is a game that should be played with good spirit. Be encouraging to other players, even if you aren’t feeling great about your own score. Playing disc golf is about having fun and spending time outside, so make sure you’re keeping it light and enjoying yourself!
2. Do keep score, don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re not sure what to do
While disc golf has rules that can be challenging to understand for first-timers, disc golf etiquette says that you should always keep score. This not only can help other players on the course understand what is happening during your game, but it also helps you to learn better disc golf strategy for future rounds, and to track your improvement!
If you’re unsure how to use a scorecard to use, don’t be afraid to get help from more experienced players! Most disc golfers will happily show you how to keep score and can even offer helpful tips on improving your game.
3. Do shake hands with everyone after the round is over
Like the handshake at the end of a hockey playoff series, disc golfers should shake hands or fist bump/elbow bump with everyone they play against when the round is over. This not only shows good sportsmanship, but also can help build bonds between players that could lead to future rounds and possible friendship!
Additionally, an ‘acknowledgement’ of the round played is customary at the start of the 18th hole is also considered good disc golf etiquette. A simple “Nice round ya’ll” will do.
4. Don’t talk while someone else is putting or during their throw
The more serious the play the more this applies, disc golfers should not talk at a high volume when an opponent is on a tee pad, in their approach, or about to putt. This is especially important in tournament play, but it’s also good etiquette in casual rounds. Noise distract can cause the disc golfer to lose focus and cause bad shots, which will affect everyone playing on that hole!
If someone is talking during a disc golfer’s turn, politely ask them to stop or give them an inaudible cue. It is better that you address the issue then rather than wait for a confrontation later in the round.
In addition, don’t talk while an opponent is putting! This can be distracting and can take away from their concentration when lining up their putt. Give them space during this time.
5. Do let people know that they are welcome to play through when it’s busy or when you are playing slow
If you are playing disc golf with a large group, try and let people know if they can play through when the disc golf course is busy. This will allow you to finish your round as fast as possible and make room. This will help speed up rounds for everyone involved and keep groups from holding up other players in line behind them!
There are several ways to let individuals or faster groups to play through without interrupting your disc golf round. One way is to ask the player or group to throw up with your group, but allow them to putt out ahead of turn to get them off to the next hole in front of you.
6. Don’t litter – pick up any trash you see and throw it away in a nearby garbage can
Most disc golf courses are in the woods and they often have the disc golf course set up in their natural beauty. If you find litter, pick it up! This not only helps keep your disc golf course clean and beautiful, but also encourages others to do the same – leading to a cleaner disc golf community for everyone involved.
If there is no garbage can around when you see trash, try and pick it up anyway. Bring it to the next garbage can you see. Keeping the course clean is everyone’s responsibility and just plain good disc golf etiquette.
7. Do yell “FORE” when you’re in risk of hitting a someone with a disc
If you are throwing your disc and it is in risk of hitting someone, yell “FORE!” This shows the people around you that they should take precaution. It could save them from injury! If nobody yells “Fore!” then you should. Remember that bystanders might not be aware of the disc golf course, so it is your responsibility to make sure they are safe.
Yelling “FORE!” should be enough, no need to scream or give any disc golfers a hard time after you accidentally hit them. Don’t worry, everyone makes disc golf mistakes!
Additionally – do not throw discs into crowded areas such as when groups of players are waiting at tees on popular holes during busy times. This causes safety issues.
8. Do have a look at the official rules of disc golf
The Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) produces the official rules of disc golf. This helps keep the sport fair and organized, so It’s a good idea to go through and get familiar with the rules of Disc Golf. Learn about penalty strokes, throwing order, what to do about lost discs, or if your disc hits OB, and more etiquette tips.
PDGA Rules: https://www.pdga.com/rules/official-rules-disc-golf
9. Do obey private and public park rules
Nobody likes rules but some are in place for good reasons. The last thing any disc golfer need is for a course shut down for alcohol (RIP…Black Mouse!), or be burned away in a fire. Disc golfers should always obey park rules and be courteous to other park goers, especially to stay in good standing with the parks. Park rules are common sense and apply to anything you do in the park – not just Disc Golf!
10. Don’t touch other players’ equipment without permission!
It is generally considered rude to touch another disc golfer’s bag or discs without their permission. If you want to get a closer look of the disc, ask the disc golfer before you touch it! This will help prevent any misunderstandings or accidents. If they give permission, don’t bend the disc or throw it!
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The game of disc golf is a fun and great way to enjoy the outdoors. It’s also an excellent excuse for some healthy competition with friends! But, like any sport out there, it does come with its own set of rules-some more obvious than others. Make sure you’re following these basic etiquette guidelines so that your round doesn’t end in disaster or embarrassment. Remember-most importantly, have fun!
2 Responses
Yes, disc golf courses have trash cans, dispose your trash in them. If they don’t have, you can keep your trash with you until you find a proper receptacle. Very simple.
Does rule number 10 apply to a player that clearly has your disc in his bag? I’ve seen this on a numerous amount of occasions. And at times they will deny they have it or refuse to let you see their discs. I once played a round with someone and complimented my disc everytime he pulled it out. I took my disc two holes before the round was over and said I gotta go. He said “excuse me I think you accidentally took my disc” I then pulled out 4 discs upside down with my name on it and said which one is yours?