The World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF) is pleased to announce that the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) has released its 2015 International Program Guide, which provides in-depth information on disc golf activities and protocol in all countries outside of the USA and Canada. In 2014, the 10th year of the PDGA’s International Program, there were 3,100+ International Members, 360+ sanctioned events, and 28 PDGA affiliated countries in Europe, Asia, and Oceania.
“Traditionally focused on the USA and Canada, PDGA activity in other countries has been encouraged and growing exponentially since 2005, when the PDGA’s International Program was introduced,” stated Michael Downes, chair of the WFDF Disc Golf Committee and PDGA Event Manager. “As the PDGA and WFDF relationship continues to flourish, it is that much more promising to expect tremendous growth in disc golf on a global level. WFDF is looking forward to an exciting 2015 disc golf season.”
The PDGA has highlighted several key differences it perceives between competitive disc golf in North America and the rest of the globe, reflecting the many different cultures and varied stages of growth. These differences primarily involve the Event Tier Standards, and how events are managed and delivered. As an example, USA events and players tend to place primary emphasis on the quality of the course(s) and, in events with top pros, on the size of the payout. This compares to the European model which is more Olympian whereby there is stricter adherence to the Rules of Play, more focus on overall event presentation and on sportsmanship, and less on the payout. As our sport continues to grow, hopefully we can all continue to learn and draw inspiration from the best practices across the globe.
“We are looking to announce several new initiatives of cooperation between WFDF and the PDGA in the coming months, including a new world championship format. We believe there is great potential to build on the PDGA’s efforts over the last decade to successfully promote and support the growth and development of disc golf across the globe.”
Please find the PDGA International Program Guide here.