Discover Disc Golf: Australia & New Zealand's Fastest Growing Outdoor Sport
Disc golf is the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors, have a laugh with mates, and discover beautiful parks you never knew existed! The Australian and New Zealand disc golf community is incredibly welcoming to newcomers—experienced players love sharing tips and helping beginners learn the ropes.
Don't be shy about reaching out to your local club—they're just regular people who love sharing their passion for this addictive sport!
The Basics
Disc golf is played much like traditional golf, but instead of using clubs and balls, players throw specially designed discs at targets. The goal is simple: complete each hole in the fewest throws possible. Each hole begins at a tee area and ends at a disc golf basket, which serves as the "hole."
What makes disc golf special is its accessibility—anyone can play regardless of age or athletic ability. All you need is a disc and a course, and you're ready to go!
Types of Discs
Unlike regular frisbees, disc golf discs are designed specifically for the sport. They come in four main categories:
- Distance Drivers: The fastest disc type, designed for maximum distance off the tee.
- Fairway Drivers: More controllable than distance drivers while still offering good length.
- Mid-range: Versatile all-purpose discs with reliable flight for controlled approaches.
- Putters: Designed for accurate, controlled throws near the basket.
Each disc has unique flight characteristics, giving players a variety of options for different shots and situations.
Getting the right advice on disc selection makes all the difference for new players
How to Play: The Rules
Teeing Off
Each hole starts from a designated tee area. The player furthest from the basket throws first.
Fairway Throws
After teeing off, the player whose disc is furthest from the hole always throws first. Your next throw is taken from where your previous throw landed.
Putting
Any throw within 10 meters of the basket is considered a putt. When putting, you cannot step past your lie (where your disc landed) until after the disc has been released.
Completion
A hole is complete when your disc lands in the basket. The chains help catch the disc, allowing it to fall into the basket.
Out of Bounds
If your disc lands out of bounds (OB), add one penalty throw to your score and play from where the disc last crossed into the OB area.
Mandatory Passages (Mandos)
Some holes require discs to pass to a specific side of an object. Missing a mandatory results in a one-throw penalty.
Scoring
Count the total number of throws plus any extras for penalties for the final score on each hole. Like golf, the lowest score wins!
Learning from experienced players is the best way to improve your game quickly
Tips for New Players
🎯 Start with Fairway Drivers, Mid-ranges & Putters
These discs fly straighter and are more forgiving. Don't worry about distance drivers until you've mastered basic form with slower, more controllable discs.
🏃♂️ Focus on Form, Not Power
Good technique beats raw power every time. Keep the disc flat and focus on smooth, controlled throws rather than trying to throw as hard as possible.
⛳ Practice Your Putting
Most strokes are saved around the basket. Spend time practising putts from different distances and angles.
🤝 Play with Experienced Players
The disc golf community is welcoming! Playing with experienced players is the fastest way to learn proper technique and course strategy.
📱 Use UDisc App
Download the UDisc app to find courses, keep score, and track your progress. It's the go-to app for disc golfers worldwide.
🎒 A Few Discs Go a Long Way
You don't need a massive collection to start. A good starter set will cover all the shots you need as a beginner, and you can always add more discs as you develop your style.
Course Etiquette
⏰ Be Considerate of Pace
If faster groups are waiting, let them play through when it's convenient. Don't feel pressured to rush—everyone plays at their own pace and that's perfectly fine!
🗑️ Leave No Trace
Pack out all rubbish and respect the natural environment. Many courses are in public parks that everyone should enjoy.
🔍 Help Find Lost Discs
Help fellow players look for lost discs. Everyone loses discs sometimes, and the community helps each other out. Pro tip: Write your name and phone number on all your discs!
⚠️ Throw Safely
Make sure no one is in your throwing lane before you throw. If your disc is heading toward someone, yell "FORE!" to warn them.
Putting practice is where you'll see the biggest improvement in your scores
What to Expect on Your First Round
Your first disc golf round should be fun and relaxed! Here's what you can expect:
🕐 Quick and Fun
A 9-hole round takes just 45 minutes, making it perfect for a lunch break or quick game. 18-hole rounds typically take 1.5-2 hours depending on the course and group size.
🎯 Learning Curve
Don't expect to score well immediately! Keep your expectations low and focus on having fun and learning. Everyone improves with practice.
💰 Cost
Most courses are free to play! Some private courses charge a small fee, but public courses are usually completely free.
🌲 Lost Discs
You'll probably lose at least one disc in the trees or bushes. It's part of learning! Make sure to write your name and phone number on all your discs so they can be returned if found.
Ready to Get Started?
You've got the knowledge—now get the gear, find a course, and connect with the community!