“Throwing plastic discs at baskets”

With just two years on the Utah State University club scene, the USU Disc Golf Club has fostered a spirit of inclusion and community that has brought in players of all backgrounds.

From beginners to seasoned players, the club has grown exponentially, sporting a team of 25 members to date. The club began in 2022 when current president Jared Tobler and two friends took the initiative to form the group.

“I always did competitive sports growing up,” said Tobler. “I figured, let’s make this happen.”

Joining an unfamiliar sports club sounds like uncharted territory, but for graduate student Drew Rogers, it was a comfortable place to start.

“Inclusive,” Rogers said. “It felt super welcoming.” Rogers has only been playing disc golf for three months but feels as much a part of the team as anyone else.

“Honestly, this club is a great spot for people starting from the bare minimum to those who want to compete,” Tobler said. “Regardless of where you’re at, you’ll have an opportunity to play. It’s a healthy place for people who just want to casually play but also for those who want to learn and grow.”

Welcoming newcomers and challenging experienced players is a balance the club strives to achieve at the individual and team levels. With player Philip Romney and coach Joseph Kozlowski holding pro-level ratings, the team isn’t just a casual commitment.

“We train every day,” Romney said. “I’m always trying to master one skill at a time.” From individual workouts and training regimens to weekly practices as a team, the players are encouraged to take charge of their own personal development.

The inclusivity and competitive nature of the club fosters a unique dynamic where members, regardless of their skill level, encourage each other.

“It’s a really good balance between having fun and competing,” Rogers said.

As competition heats up, the team will play through until the end of the school year, making for what can be a taxing season. To keep the momentum rolling, the team aspires to qualify for nationals, win an event and create a women’s team. The team has already accomplished its goal of qualifying for nationals. The athletes will face off against competitors in April 2025.

“It’s exciting,” Tobler said. “This year’s about building.”

This developmental process starts from leadership and has trickled down to the rest of the team. And it’s not just USU’s club. It’s the sport.

“One of the things I love about disc golf is the support you see. Even from competitors,” said Lucas Waddoups,  current member of the presidency. “Even if you’re competing against each other. It’s not something I’ve seen much in other sports.”

To those considering joining, “I’d encourage people to come. Give it a go. And who knows, you could fall in love with it,” Rogers said.

To follow the USU Disc Golf Club, find them on Instagram @usudiscgolfclub and join what they call, “The best USU club for throwing plastic discs at baskets.”