Cherokee Middle School Introduces Disc Golf to Students with Help from National Grant

Cherokee Middle School in western North Carolina has welcomed a new sport into its physical education program: disc golf. This exciting development comes thanks to a recent grant from the PDGA Diversity and Outreach Grant Program, which provided instructional videos, new baskets, and over 75 discs for students to learn and play with.

According to Cherokee Middle School P.E. teacher Miranda Stamper, "We're learning, but the kids really seem to like it." The introduction of disc golf is seen as a valuable addition to the school's physical education program, providing students with an engaging way to stay active and healthy. What's more, this new activity can be enjoyed for years to come – even after graduation.

The EBCI (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians) has been working to establish itself as an outdoor destination, and the upcoming Fire Mountain Disc Golf Sanctuary in Cherokee is a significant step forward. This 18-hole course will feature two layouts and provide ample opportunities for students and families to enjoy the great outdoors together.

Jeremy Hyatt, Secretary of Operations for the EBCI, believes that this new development will further enhance the community's outdoor offerings and amenities. "We think it will provide yet another opportunity to improve out outdoor offerings and amenities for the general public and tribal families," he said.

The PDGA Diversity and Outreach Task Force has been working tirelessly to promote diversity and inclusion within the sport of disc golf. Their innovative grant program aims to encourage members to design and implement projects that strengthen excellence in diversity and outreach, particularly among underrepresented populations.

One such initiative is the D&O Grant Program, which has supported projects like this one at Cherokee Middle School. The program provides financial assistance for innovative projects, programs, workshops, and activities that foster diversity and inclusion within the PDGA membership.

For Leah Tsinajinnie, a member of the PDGA Board of Directors and the Diversity and Outreach Task Force, the introduction of disc golf to Cherokee is an exciting development. "I'm thrilled to see that the EBCI community will have a disc golf course!" she exclaimed. "It's essential for the health and wellness of the community members to have options for outdoor activities such as disc golf."

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/pdga-diversity-grant-reaches-qualla-boundary