Disc Golf Legacy: Father-Son Duo Sees Growth in Local Scene

For 13-year-old Isaiah Esquivel, Christmas comes every April when his hometown of Emporia, Kansas hosts the Dynamic Discs Glass Blown Open. But for him, the real gift is being able to share this passion with his dad, Lupe, a lifelong resident and disc golf enthusiast. As a processing technician at Hills Science Diet, Lupe takes time off during GBO week to focus on what matters most - spending quality time with his son.

Isaiah's love for disc golf began when he was just seven years old, watching his dad play at the local course. Soon, he started tagging along and eventually developed a passion of his own. Under Lupe's guidance, Isaiah's skills improved dramatically, earning him a PDGA number and eventually a sponsorship with Dynamic Discs after a remarkable performance in the 2016 Trilogy Öppna.

As Isaiah continues to grow as a player, Lupe's role has shifted from teaching him technique to helping him develop the mental toughness needed to succeed at this level. He emphasizes the importance of professionalism on the course, reminding his son that he represents not just himself, but also his team and sponsors. This valuable lesson will serve him well in his future goals, which include winning a Junior World Championship, earning a signature disc, and touring the country.

The Esquivel family's love for disc golf has had a significant impact on their community, with Lupe instrumental in introducing new players to the sport through league play and outreach. This dedication has helped grow the local scene, making Emporia a hub for disc golf enthusiasts from across the country. As the Dynamic Discs Glass Blown Open takes over the town this week, the Esquivels are thrilled to welcome thousands of new fans and pros to their hometown.

For Lupe, it's not just about his son's success; it's about sharing the joy of disc golf with others and building a community that welcomes and supports one another. As he puts it, "It's amazing to see all these people playing the courses we get to play every day." And for Isaiah, this week is a chance to experience the excitement of his favorite tournament alongside his dad, friends, and fellow pros - a true Christmas gift in April.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/local-limelight-emporia