DISC GOLF
THE EMPORIA
Advantage helping us raise money to reach our season goals to showing up and supporting us at tournaments, Emporia sets the example for how we should all treat one another. On top of the community, Dynamic Discs has been nothing short of unbelievable. They have shown the importance they put on growing the sport and supporting their community.” Teammate Rebekah Thompson shares Farrell’s sentiment. “We are fortunate to have the support of ESU, making us a part of the Athletic Department and providing scholarships to our athletes, which
Emporia State University’s Disc Golf Team Has What Other Teams Don’t When Emporia State University Athletics launched its competitive disc golf team in the fall of 2022, expectations were high. After all, the slogan “Emporia knows disc golf” exists for a reason. Emporia has numerous professional disc golf courses, hosts championship events and is home to Dynamic Discs, a top disc golf retailer.
very few schools currently do for disc golf,” said Thompson. “And they don't just support us financially, but physically as well, like when our Athletic Director flew out to watch us compete at Nationals in South Carolina. I am so grateful that I can compete for Emporia State because the facilities, resources, and support are second to none.”
The team also had a seasoned pro, PDGA World Champion Eric McCabe, to coach them. It seemed logical that these factors would help form a strong team. But what the ESU team achieved in its first year of competition surpassed expectations. They made it to the Collegiate Disc Golf National Championship, with the men’s D-I team being edged out of the lead on the final hole and finishing second.
Thompson is a unique example of how having the backing and encouragement of a team and a community can turn someone with great potential into a serious contender. She had no disc golf experience when she tried out for the team. Six months later, she took 16th at Nationals.
McCabe thinks his team hasn’t even come close to reaching the ceiling of their abilities, both as individuals and as a team. “This team thrives in competition play,” said McCabe. “They feed off each other and encourage one another, unlike anyone I’ve ever seen. It’s like they’ve been playing together for years.” Having McCabe as a coach and mentor has been crucial to the team’s success. But having the resources and encouragement of the community of Emporia has also played a key role. “I am so incredibly impressed with all Emporia has done for our team and disc golf as a sport,” said Justin Farrell. “From 32 Emporia Community Guide
“Great support builds greatness,” said Farrell. “Without the foundation that this community has built, we would not be able to represent our university and town.” The team has returned with fire in their bellies this season, ready to build on their Emporia advantage and turn it into a national championship. “Fans should expect some very exciting and aggressive disc golf,” said Cade Kohlmeier. “We are even more of a threat this year,” said McCabe.
Visit emporia.edu/discgolf to learn more about disc golf at ESU
