Disc golf is a physically active lifetime recreational game played outdoors with Frisbee-style discs in a similar fashion to golf. This modified activity is played in a smaller environment with slightly different equipment but designed for the development of basic disc golf concepts, rules, and skills. The skills worked on within this activity are directly related to the National Association for Sport and Physical Education National Standards and components of the Expanded Core Curriculum. Lessons include Adapted Physical Education, Orientation and Mobility, and Recreation and Leisure.
Nine numbered hoops with stands to be used as Frisbee catchers
Frisbees
Cones with numbers to use as starting tees
Smaller cones to use as spot from which to throw
Scorecard (optional) in large print or on iPad
Map of the course (optional)
Set up and prep:
Set up hoops outdoors, preferably in a large area free of walking traffic and all but natural obstacles, where fairways can be spread out from one another.
Review with the students the area and layout of the course, walk through the course and explain objects in the environment.
Have students touch, feel, hold and become familiar with the equipment.
Demonstrate the goal of the game is to throw the Frisbee through the hoop/target.
Demonstrate grip and throwing options: overhand, backhand, sidearm.
Walk through the following steps if it’s the first time playing (and as many times as needed) to demonstrate expectations: start at cone, locate target, face target, throw Frisbee toward target, walk to Frisbee and throw from that location until target is reached.
Rotate hoop to face the person throwing the Frisbee.
Playing the game:
Have the student select their Frisbee.
Starting at the first tee, the student should throw the Frisbee toward the target, pick it up from where it lands, and throw it again, until it makes it through the hoop.
Have students work in groups of three. If you have a large number of students, have each group start at different hoops.
Each player in a group must wait for everyone in their group to throw and then move as a group to each player’s Frisbee starting with the player furthest from the hoop/target.
Have students count each throw and record the number for each hole.
After completing the entire course, have the students add their scores and identify whose is lowest.
Consider practice throwing Frisbees before starting the actual game.
Place starting tees fairly close to target hoops and gradually increase to a longer distance.
For students in wheelchairs: students may place Frisbee through the hoop; adjust hoops to a lower level; place multiple Frisbees on medium size cones between the starting tee and the hoop and have the student carry each Frisbee and place it through the hoop.
Use a tactile map to review the course.
Utilize a picture or object sequence to communicate steps in the sequence of the routine.
Consider using a counting ring or system for students to keep track of throws.
Provide a sound source at the hoop/ target, i.e. a person clapping.
Tie a bell from the hoop to use as an indicator when the target is hit.
Instruct the player of the distance from the hoop/target.
Hint: Instructors should be aware of each student’s limitations, and check with the medical team member to ensure the activity is suitable.