As a child, I visited my grandparents in San Diego multiple times a year. They loved to golf, and I spent my childhood getting up early, sleeping in the back of the golf cart until it was time for hot chocolate, and then I got to “drive” them around the course. I love that memory, but I must admit, I never enjoyed traditional golf. Perhaps that’s why, for years, I barely noticed the “funny baskets” dotting my favorite parks—until last month, when I went hiking with our Girl Scout group at Royal Oaks County Park. There was a family playing, and I started a conversation. They inspired me, and I knew my family needed to give it a try. Yes, it is called “Forced Family Fun” in our house, but I knew we would be hooked!
WHY DISC GOLF?
If you read my article on bocce last month, you know I’m a huge fan of incorporating STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) into our family activities. Disc golf is a perfect example of how science and play can go hand in hand. Since disc golf involves throwing flying discs into baskets, it engages kids in physics and geometry in a natural environment. It uses real-world applications of aerodynamics and geometry in strategic play. Plus, it’s a great excuse to get outdoors and be active as a family!
WHAT IS DISC GOLF?
I don’t know about you, but I never paid attention to disc golf baskets before. Once you start looking, they’re everywhere! The sport has skyrocketed in popularity, with an estimated 16,000 courses worldwide—76% of which have been built in the last five years, most concentrated in North America. It’s an accessible, low-cost activity that’s easy to learn but offers endless opportunities to improve skills over time. I have to admit, we are lucky. We live in an area with moderate temperature, making this a year-round activity.
A GAME FOR EVERYONE
Unlike traditional golf, which requires expensive equipment and course fees, disc golf is incredibly accessible. All you need are a few discs, which cost just a few dollars each, and access to a local park with a course. Fortunately, our local green spaces have embraced disc golf, making it free and easy for families to enjoy.
Beyond being budget-friendly, disc golf also instills valuable life skills for all ages.
• Do the Work: Like anything in life, improving takes practice. Perfecting a throw requires repetition and dedication, reinforcing the idea that hard work leads to progress.
• Have the Right Attitude: Sportsmanship is key. Learning to handle both success and setbacks helps kids develop resilience and a positive mindset.
• Accept Failure: Every player will have bad throws, no matter their skill level. Teaching kids that failure is just part of learning helps them develop perseverance and confidence.
HOW TO PLAY—CHOOSING THE RIGHT DISC
Since we were newbies, we didn’t understand why there were different types of discs! After a few rounds, we figured out which discs were for what and started to understand the nuances of each disc. Of course, you don’t need separate discs, but for us, it did bring a level of seriousness to the play. A starter set typically includes:
- Distance drivers: Designed for long throws but requires more skill to control.
- Fairway drivers: More forgiving and easier to control, great for intermediate distances.
- Midranges: Offer a balance between control and distance, often flying straighter.
- Putters: The slowest, deepest discs, designed for precision when aiming for the basket.
The game is simple: like traditional golf, players start from a designated tee area and try to complete each hole in the fewest number of throws, ending when the disc lands in the basket. Most courses have nine or 18 holes, but some of our local parks have more tees, and a few have multiple courses to explore.
GET OUTDOORS AND HAVE FUN
We had a blast and some serious laughs. I highly recommend giving disc golf a try, and I think you will find it is more than just a game—it’s an exciting way to connect with your family, enjoy the outdoors, and sneak in some STEM learning without even realizing it. Whether aiming for precision or just having fun seeing how far you can throw (a little family-friendly competition), every round is an opportunity to build skills and make memories. Best of all, it’s an activity that grows with you, offering new challenges and adventures each time you play.
So, grab a disc, explore a local course, and start a little friendly competition. Who knows? You just might just spark a lifelong love for the game—and a new family tradition. See you on the course!
WHERE TO PLAY IN MONTEREY COUNTY
We have a great local resource, the Monterey Stinging Jellies Disc Golf Club (stingingjellies.com). They host events annually and currently maintain and operate the Ryan Ranch Course.
Additional options:
- Los Arboles Middle School
- CSUMB Cypress and Oaks Courses
- Ryan Ranch Disc Golf
- Carmel Middle School
- Stadium Disc Golf Course at Natividad Creek Park
- Cypress Community Church
- Royal Oaks Park
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