Keep spectator etiquette in mind, nothing more exciting than getting to see some of disc golf’s biggest names a mere ten feet in front of you as they rocket their drives off the tee pad. For many of us, being around the best of the best is akin to seeing movie stars in hollywood – you love and adore them, yet are simultaneously super intimidated by them!
If you’re headed out to be a part of the gallery at an upcoming event and want to make sure you don’t step on anyone’s toes, our guide to spectator etiquette will clue you into the things you should – and shouldn’t – be doing.
Keep Spectator Etiquette in Mind Adequate Space
As much as you want to get the best view on the course, perhaps one of the top items of etiquette is to keep in mind is that players need space during competition. That means standing a reasonable distance behind the tee box, or if ropes are being used, watching from the designated areas. As tempting as it is to say a quick hello and get an autograph during a back-up, it’s strictly prohibited and isn’t giving players the mental space they need to execute their next shots.
In fact, the PDGA posted a very specific policy to this end during the 2017 Pro World’s event:
“We aim to provide an optimum competition environment for our players. There will be a ‘No Autographs’ policy in effect on the course at all times during competitive play and also when the players are in the practice area. Autographs may be obtained in the parking lots and common spaces as well as after the day’s play has concluded.”
Still As A Statue
Although you might be out to follow the lead card, keep in mind that there are 17 other groups playing on the same course. Make every effort to be mindful of how loud you speak and the body movements you make, even if you’re hundreds of feet away from the competitors you’re watching.
The line of sight is another concept that’s taken seriously and for good reason – gallery members who are creating a distraction during play can literally affect whether someone wins or loses the event. If you are in a player’s direct line of sight, meaning they can easily see you, stand completely still until they have finished their shot.
Keep Spectator Etiquette in Mind: Miscellaneous Items
Other etiquette rules that might seem like a “no-brainer” are often lost on some who attend larger tournaments, so keep in mind that you’ll need to:
For those inspired to watch and play more disc golf after attending an event, there are standout courses across Australia worth visiting. Families travelling in WA can enjoy the Albany Holiday Park Disc Golf Course, which offers a relaxed holiday setting with a family-friendly layout. In Victoria, the Barwon Valley Disc Golf Course is a well-established community hub loved by players of all skill levels. Around Perth, Chichester Park Disc Golf Park provides suburban convenience with both wooded and open holes to test your game. And for those looking nationwide, the Australian Disc Golf Course Directory is the best resource for finding courses right across the country.
For those inspired to not only watch disc golf but also play, there are standout courses across the country worth checking out. In Western Australia, the Albany Holiday Park Disc Golf Course offers a welcoming and family-friendly layout ideal for beginners and casual rounds. Down in Victoria, the Barwon Valley Disc Golf Course in Geelong has become a much-loved community hub with a well-established course. Perth locals can test their skills at Chichester Park Disc Golf Park, which blends suburban convenience with a mix of wooded and open holes. And for a comprehensive national guide to where you can play, the Australian Disc Golf Course Directory is the go-to resource for exploring courses right across the country.