The State Of Disc Golf: Membership

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The State of Disc Golf 2014: Membership?

Part 2 of a seven part editorial series of the 1,422 responses from the survey “The State of Disc Golf: 2014”

We acknowledge and emphasize to you that the results here directly reflect the disc golf community who is in some way, shape, or form, involved with disc golf online. We recognize that it would be inaccurate for us to claim that this survey is a proper reflection of the entire disc golf community. The results portray disc golfers who found this survey via Facebook, Twitter, Reddit, Google+, forums, E-mail, and many other means.

Also note, charts supporting and further detailing the written data are at the bottom of the article.

Disc Golf Membership: PDGA

The PDGA (Professional Disc Golf Association) is the governing body of disc golf. For an annual fee of $30-$75 a person may become a member of the PDGA. Information on joining and benefits are found at these links. Benefits and Joining.

Of those who took this survey, 1/3 are members of the PDGA. Of the 953 respondents who said they were not currently a member of the PDGA, 41% said they intend to become a member of the PDGA, 47% were unsure, and 11% do not intend to become a member of the PDGA.

We then feel, Mr. Avery Jenkins (refer to the quote on the right), that the PDGA will likely evolve into at least 1/100th of what the PGA Tour is.

“I can only hope that Professional Disc Golf becomes 1/100th of what the PGA Tour has evolved into over the years!”

– Avery Jenkins

Just as a majority of players (as shown in the previous article) have been playing disc golf for a relatively short time, respondents have also been members of the PDGA for a short time. Of the 468 who said they are members of the PDGA, 80% (373) have been members for three years or less! 5% have been members of the PDGA for 10 years or more.

Disc Golf Membership: Clubs

Aside from the governing body of disc golf on a national level, there are hundreds of smaller organized groups which identify themselves as clubs, leagues, and associations. These groups are diverse as they are common (and as you travel the country, they are common). A single area may have one group or many. The group may offer incentives for joining, prizes during regularly (or irregularly) planned play and competition, and organize an ace pot and/or other cash reserves. These clubs also typically host one or several tournaments each year. Clubs may have official logos and gear such as stamped discs and clothing. Individuals most actively involved with clubs may also work closely with city planning and development towards the advancement of disc golf.

Club participation was more common than PDGA participation, with 47% of respondents stating they are a member of a club. Of those who are not currently a member of a club, only 8% have been a member before, leaving 92% (691 respondents) who have never been a member of a club. 38% of people who are not club members intend to become a member, 11% have no intention to become a member, while the other 51% are unsure.

We dug a little deeper into the statistics and we wanted to know: At what point does a disc golfer become actively involved? Is it the first year, or later once a player has gained experience? The statistics were surprising. 18% of players become involved in the PDGA in year 1, and 32% become involved with a club. By year 3, those numbers have changed drastically. In the 3rd year, 48% of players are members of the PDGA and 50% are members of a club. Unfortunately, around the 5th year, those numbers decline as though there is a “5th year disc golfer participation lull”. From there, the longest standing disc golfers club participation continues to rise, with players who have enjoyed the sport for 26 or more years being involved in a club over 62% of the time! However, PDGA membership gradually drops for the veteran players.

For those considering signing up, or for those who are running clubs, cost is always a factor in keeping clubs going.

Club Cost: Joining
One fourth of clubs have no cost to join. Then the clubs which do ask for any funds less than $10 are hard to come by, only 12% have an entry fee between $1-$10. 37% of clubs will charge anywhere between $11-$20, and 27% of clubs will charge $21 or more to become a member. Of all respondents, only 4 were not sure how much their club charges.

Club Cost: Weekly Basis
While a quarter of clubs may be free to join, chances that they’ll be free during a club round is less likely. 35% of “free to join” clubs are also free during league play while 54% will charge you at least $4 for league play. Of all clubs (not just the free to join clubs), 19% are free during regular club rounds.

Nearly one-quarter of clubs have no weekly fee and 47% are under $6. 3% of clubs will charge more than $17 on a weekly basis, those respondents may be confusing disc golf with ball golf.

Thoughts

A majority of disc golfers who took this survey (of which, many are active in the online disc golf community) have no affiliation with any organized disc golf group. This is both positive and negative. It’s fantastic because many active disc golfers enjoy the sport; courses are frequently used by a variety of people without obligation or affiliation. However, for the sport to continue its growth, an organized effort on the national and local levels needs to take place. At the same time, a majority of players without any stated current affiliation have stated intention to become affiliated with both the PDGA and local clubs, and a large percentage have stated they are unsure. The reality of today’s state of disc golf is there is growth, and there is potential.

Organizations of all levels have an opportunity to effectively reach out and offer value. If organized disc golf bodies do so the sport is poised to rise to another level of competition, professionalism, and fun.

The next article in this series will be published on February 11, and will cover Best Discs of 2013.What data would you like to see us add to the next survey to be published in 2015 regarding memberships? Feel free to let us know in the comments below!

The State Of Disc Golf: Growth

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The State of Disc Golf 2014—Who Are You?

This is the Part 1 a seven part series which delves into the 1,422 responses from the survey The State of Disc Golf: 2014. This series will focus on the current state of disc golf and this first article covers “Who are today’s disc golfers?”.

In this first article, we hope to shed light on the question, “Who are you?” The first few questions of our survey asked a little bit about you specifically as a disc golfer. We asked: How long have you been a disc golfer, which state do you live in, and how often do you play disc golf?

We acknowledge that the results here are a reflection of the disc golf community who is in some way, shape, or form, is involved with disc golf online. We recognize that it would be inaccurate for us to claim that this survey is a proper reflection of the entire disc golf community as a whole. While 1,422 responses in a week is fantastic (thank you everybody who took 15 minutes to respond!), we must remember that there are many more disc golfers out there. Now without further explanation, enjoy the results.

Where are todays disc golfers?

The first question asked was “Which state do you live in?” All fifty states in the USA were represented, as well as a strong showing from Canada and outside of North America. California is dominant with 120 responses. Does this make California the top state for disc golf? Maybe.

The image to the right is color coded according to where most respondents are from, as well as the number of respondents from their respective states.

Our breakdown is this: the disc golf mecca of the world is still the great lakes area. With a strong and active disc golf community and more courses per capita than anywhere else – if you’re in love with disc golf, move there. California and Texas have sheer numbers of people and many courses to help numbers out. Areas such as Kansas and Utah show a disc golf scene which is starting to become fierce. Disc golf isn’t migrating into these areas, it’s just beginning to boom.

How long have you been a disc golfer?

Your responses to this question were not nearly as varied. Over half of those surveyed have been playing disc golf for only three years or less and 87% have been play for less than ten years. This is solid evidence to the claim that disc golf is the fastest growing sport in the world. Players in the sport are new to it, and those who have played for a long time are still going strong and loving it. Given more time, and the current rate of growth, expect to see higher level competition become more lucrative, professional, and exciting.

A decent portion also responded as being in the 6-10 years of being a disc golfer category – this is where you will likely find many of today’s disc golf leaders. Those who have been playing for 6-10 years received 190 (15%) responses. Only 13% of disc golfers have been playing for 11 years or more.

How Often Do You Play Disc golf

Those surveyed not only are aware of disc golf online, but they’re also active on the course. When respondents took into account the seasons and responded how frequently they play, you can see why courses throughout the country have trails beat in them near each tee pad.

Most players hit the course at least two times a week, where a large core of players are out playing four times, five times… every day. Those who said they play “rarely” were only a blip on the radar; 4 people of the 1,422 respondents said rarely. Clearly, once a player catches the disc golf bug it stays and it’s contagious.

Final Thoughts

Obviously, disc golf is growing. The floodgates are opening for the sport, and new players are coming out in droves. Where areas like Michigan and California were the primary centers for disc golf, you can now find a stronger and more organized presence of disc golf in nearly every state. A majority of players have been enjoying the sport for a short time – as these players continue to gain experience, watch the level of competition become more and more competitive, year after year. Results in coming surveys will reveal club participation and how disc golf is becoming more organized.

We encourage you to share this information
Yes, the data is interesting; but it’s also useful. Feel free to use these results when approaching parks & rec about implementing and better utilizing disc golf in your community. These results clearly show that disc golf is exploding. We are headquartered in Utah where these results have already been shared with city officials to get additional courses approved. Explain to your local decision makers that disc golf provides an opportunity for people to get outside and active, and that it’s a sport that so many people can and will enjoy!

What will change in 2015’s results?
Next year when this survey is administered we will ask additional questions, such as gender and age. Feel free to write in the comments below any of your thoughts, and/or what you would like to see asked in next years survey, relevant to “Who is today’s disc golfer?”

The next article in this series will be published on February 4, and will cover Disc Golf Memberships.

Disc Golf Manufacturers of 2013 – Largest Impact

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We asked our audience, “2013 is almost over. What disc golf manufacturer has made the biggest impact on disc golf this year? Why?” and the answers came rolling in. After 184 responses, here is the breakdown:

Manufacturer-which-made-biggest-2013-Impact

Prodigy headed the remarkable class of 2013 manufacturers, with a narrow lead over Dynamic Discs in direct voting. Although, with the votes that came in with Trilogy (which Dynamic Discs is a part of), Dynamic Discs could arguably be number one.

What’s more telling is the latter part of our question, “Why?”

#1 – Prodigy Disc

[one_half]Prodigy released 17 new molds this year at least one dozen more than any other manufacturer. Several of these molds are available in multiple plastics as well.

Prodigy also launched a team of both men and women which quickly claimed the top spots in many premier tournaments. They instantly created a brand to be reckoned with in the disc golf world, and found their way into the bags of countless players faster than anybody has done previously.[/one_half][one_half_last]Tricia Lafferty said:Like them or not, Prodigy killed it this year. They cranked out 17 different molds in 3 different plastics. For their first year of production, that is a pretty amazing feat.[/one_half_last]

However, not all is roses for Prodigy. This comment was very telling: “Prodigy has made the biggest impact. Me personally can’t stand the company. And the way their doing business… Just my thoughts.”

What can be said of Prodigy is that while the impact made by Prodigy has been larger than any other, their reputation is lackluster. Certainly, part of the difficulties from critics comes with the territory of being in the spotlight, but also undoubtedly, there is some damage control which Prodigy can look forward to in 2014.

#2 – Dynamic Discs

[one_half]Forging a new relationship with Latitude 64 at the end of 2012, and catapulting the awareness and new product lineup into the spotlight in 2013 has transformed the image of Dynamic Discs into a premier disc golf brand.

When reading why Dynamic Discs has made such a large impact, the emphasis on community is ever-present. [/one_half][one_half_last]Billy Koch said:Dynamic Discs – they have been really out there promoting disc golf. Sure Prodigy changes the way team sponsorship is done but those are a small micro group of people. DD has been traveling in their RV promoting disc golf and their discs. I am a big Trilogy fan but my hats off goes to DD![/one_half_last]

The line of discs also released under the Dynamic Discs name has been of extremely high quality. One comment read that Dynamic Discs deserved the top spot because “with the disc of the year. the judge, great new mid-ranges with the suspect and truth”

#3 – Trilogy

To the faithful followers of the Scandinavian plastic, there’s nothing better than Westside, DD, and Latitude 64. These fans have found their favorite plastic in 2013, and are proud of it. With comments such as “Trilogy all day long!” and “TRILOGY! – BOOM!!” you can see that these fans are here to stay and are going to stay loud. Collectively, the Trilogy released nearly a dozen new discs this year, each of which have been wildly selling here at Infinite.

#4 – MVP

[one_half]The crew at Maple Valley Plastics have enchanted their audience with each new release. These fans beg MVP to release more on a constant basis. With each of MVP’s new product teasers, loyal fans insist “Take My Money!!” In short, MVP has solidified a following just as faithful and fierce as those who swear by the Trilogy, however this following is much smaller in numbers at this point.
[/one_half][one_half_last]James King said:Building on the foundation of the Ion, which many have come to love, and continuing to fill their arsenal (Still awaiting their Long distance drivers). Even Innova is trying some overmolded plastic now![/one_half_last]

It’s also noteworthy that the manufacturing practices of MVP have turned the heads of the largest manufacturer, Innova. Read the comment on the right to see what we mean. It’s also of note that our review king (Andrew Belet) here at Infinite also voted MVP. The man owns and thoroughly reviews every disc which is released – his vote should almost count for five because of his credibility.

For MVP fans, the big questions right now are: What is the the Alias, and when will they release a Distance Driver.

#5 – Innova

While Innova does not tout the numbers of new releases, they still garnered a solid number of votes. Why? A few reasons were echoed in the comments. First, it appears that Innova is still what gets people started in the sport – availability, overall selection, and ease of use. Our favorite reason, “Whatever disc golf company Paul McBeth is slingin'”.

Being the largest manufacturer for years running, Innova has also gained a fierce following, and a fierce despise among players. Love ’em or hate ’em. This comment is very telling of the a current feeling towards Innova “still Innova …They still set the standards somehow..even tho their plastic has somehow gone downhill”,

Aside from the votes, Innova sales numbers are far more dominant at Infinite Discs than any other manufacturer. We can safely say that Innova is has made the largest impact in the largest amount of players bags this year.

#6 – Latitude 64

Latitude 64 falls into a tie for the #6 position, when not including votes of “Trilogy.” Those who voted Latitude 64 were concise, simply stating that they’re the best.

We have found that while the Dynamic Discs line has quickly gained a fierce following, Latitude 64 has gradually gained respect among a more broad audience. The sentiment of buying strictly American is not ringing as loudly while the quality Scandinavian product makes its mark in the disc golf world.

#7 – Discraft

The Ace Race, the Mantis, & the Crank. Discraft may have pushed the 10th Anniversary Buzzz for a bit too long, but there’s no arguing with the success of the Crank. One comment read: “I am going to say discraft due to the overwhelming popularity of the crank, and desirability of the blue glo crank. I have just heard more aboit these two discs than any other.”

Discraft’s annual Ace Race generates more visibility to sport than nearly any other event, as it takes the organized sport to the grass roots level.

#7 – Legacy

Legacy stands in a class of its own. The brand is not commonly known, the fans aren’t loud, but they’re confident, and they’re passionate. This comment sums the general feeling of Legacy in 2013 up: “Legacy because of the gauge which I really like the feel of and the other players that throw legacy around me. No drama, no pressure, and no thick headed obsessive fan people to bug me about my disc choices. Just makes a bigger impact on me then someone yelling in my face about how great they are; just my opinion”

That’s Legacy.

#7 – Vibram

Vibram released complimentary discs to the Lace, with the unLace and oLace, both of which are gone nearly as fast as we can order them. Earlier in 2013, they also released the Lace in Firm rubber.

These ultra long range drivers, as well as the unique blend of rubber which Vibram uses to make discs is one of the reasons that Vibram was mentioned nearly a dozen times.

We expect next year to be even bigger, as Vibram’s Birdie Bash gains steam as one of the best mini-format tournaments that players can enjoy. It was no surprise that many players who chose MVP, also had Vibram as a close second, of vice-versa. Both companies are small, offer a unique line, and are offering a meaningful contribution to the sport.

#10 – Westside

To round out the rest of the Trilogy, Westside. Westside makes an annual new release in March, and lies low the rest of the year. Not a lot of hype, just product. For that reason, in 2013 Westside has made a steady impact throughout the year. The March release was well received, but after that their growth (which has been steady month after month here at Infinite) is completely based on brand reputation.

One individual said “Westside. the keep making discs that replace something in my bag.”

#10 – Lightning

Judging by the comment, and the impact that Lightning has actually made, this was a joke. Sorry Lightning.

Thank you for reading! If you want to continue making a case for why any manufacturer made the largest impact, feel free to say so below!

Best Plastic for Golf Discs

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Stack of the most recommended fairway drivers for new players

What’s the best plastic for golf discs?

It really depends on the type of disc, the type of shot, and personal preference. With that said, some plastics are just better than others.

We’ve asked our fans what their favorite plastic types are for:

  • Drivers
  • Midrange Discs
  • Putters
  • Overall

In general, disc golfers prefer premium durable plastics for drivers, and place a greater importance on grippiness and feel for putt and approach discs. When it comes to midrange discs, the hard transparent plastics (Z, Champion, Lucid are tops).

While there aren’t any overwhelmingly dominant favorite plastics, Innova Star and Latitude 64 Goldline are the plastics of choice.

Innova Christmas Discs

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Make the holidays truly special this year with Innova Christmas edition golf discs. Celebrate the holidays for years to come with these special commemorative discs. 2013 will be the year your family cherishes forever as they savor the memory of giant Christmas snowflakes and little tiny disc golfers making snow angels.

Holiday stamped golf discs are perfect for the Mrs. as they make great wall decorations and tree ornaments (on very large trees). If you don’t have a home, or Christmas tree, these discs also work well for playing rounds of disc golf.

Finally the gift that everyone can enjoy.

Okay, with the cheese aside, this year’s holiday stamped discs are featured on some pretty sick new discs; the all new Nova and the new Atlas with a clear Champion flight plate.

These limited edition discs are now available for pre-order. Order yours today. Christmas edition discs will ship December 6-7 and arrive just in time for the holidays!

Free Vibram Shirt!

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Do you want a free Vibram T-Shirt?

Well, Vibram will give you one if you buy three Vibram Discs between now and Christmas.

Vibram makes some of the best and most durable golf discs on the market. The enhanced grip that only rubber can provide is especially valuable for winter disc golf.

Vibram has two new distance drivers that have been huge hits. The unLace is perhaps the best beginner driver ever made. The oLace is outstanding for advanced big arm players who throw with power.

How do I get a free shirt?

1 – Shop Vibram Here

2 – Take a screenshot of your receipt

3 – Fill out this Simple Form

 

To take advantage of this free giveaway, simply buy any three Vibram discs, save your receipt,  and fill out this simple form.

The Best State For Disc Golf

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We recently asked our fans “Which state is the best for disc golf?”

We received replies from several bias individuals bragging up their own state, or in less common cases, putting their vote to another state. Either way, the visual representation below does accurately reflect some of the best places for disc golf.

Best States for Disc Golf

The more responses for the state, the more vibrant the shade of green.
Why is Hawaii red? Because they received one negative vote where the respondent said “Not Hawaii!”

Question: If I am not in Michigan, California or Texas, then what am I doing?
1) I should be packing my bags and moving, because I live to disc golf.
2) I’m working to make disc golf better right in my backyard!

How can you improve the sport in your area?

There are many ways to make your area better! The first step is to become involved in organized disc golf. Most areas have a club with at least a few members, and those clubs organize and lobby efforts to improve the game locally. They organize fund-raising for courses, talk to city representatives, and bring better overall awareness to the sport. One of the best ways to find a club is to look on Disc Golf Scene, or on Facebook.

We want to know, what are you doing to help grow the sport?? Tell us below!

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Did You Know

We can get Innova DISCatcher baskets to your city for wholesale at only $325 each! For an 18 hole course that’s $5850, which is a drop in the bucket to many Parks & Rec departments budgets! Most of them are scratching their heads wondering how to get better use of their parks, and disc golf is the answer![/box]

MVP Limited Release Minimal Orbit Stamp

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MVP just announced they will be doing a limited release of their Orbit stamp on only four molds, the:

In order to secure yours, PRE-ORDER by November 1st.  That is when we will place our order.  These will be officially available on November 8th, and will be sent out at that time.

MVP says:

“We are excited to add a little twist to our style.  We have now available for a limited time some of our popular models with a unique side offset stamp of the new MVP Orbit logo.  This minimalistic stamp harmonizes the beauty and style of our discs.

This stamp will be available in the following popular models: Neutron Ion, Neutron Tangent, Neutron Volt, and Eclipse Soft Anode.

These will be only available for order up until November 1, and will be shipping out on November 4.

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