Cherokee Middle School Students Get Hooked on Disc Golf

A new sport has landed in western North Carolina's Qualla Boundary. Cherokee Middle School students have begun playing disc golf as part of their physical education program, thanks to a grant from the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA). The introduction of disc golf is not only a fun addition to the school's curriculum but also aims to promote physical activity and community engagement.

"We're learning, but the kids really seem to like it," said Miranda Stamper, the physical education teacher at Cherokee Middle School. "And it's something they can do for the rest of their lives, something to keep them active that they can do with their families." The school has received instructional videos, new baskets, and over 75 discs as part of the PDGA Diversity and Outreach Grant Program.

The Fire Mountain Disc Golf Sanctuary in Cherokee is also on the horizon. This new course will feature two layouts and offer a unique outdoor experience for both locals and visitors. According to EBCI Secretary of Operations Jeremy Hyatt, "It's another step in our endeavor to make Cherokee an outdoor destination." The course is expected to provide opportunities for physical activity, recreation, and community bonding.

Leah Tsinajinnie, a member of the PDGA Board of Directors and the Diversity and Outreach Task Force, expressed her enthusiasm for the new course. "I'm thrilled to see that the EBCI community will have a disc golf course!" she said. "It's essential for the health and wellness of the community members to have options for outdoor activities such as disc golf." The PDGA's Diversity and Outreach Grant Program aims to promote diversity within the disc golf community, and this initiative is part of their efforts.

The grant program provides financial assistance for innovative projects that strengthen excellence in diversity and outreach. Grants ranging from $500 to $3,000 support programs, workshops, and activities that engage underrepresented populations in the sport. The PDGA's Diversity and Outreach Task Force was launched earlier in 2021 with a focus on encouraging members to design and implement ways to increase diversity within the disc golf community.

The introduction of disc golf at Cherokee Middle School and the upcoming course at the Fire Mountain Disc Golf Sanctuary demonstrate the growing interest in the sport and its potential for community building.

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