From Player to Leader: Doug Bjerkaas Shares His Vision for the Future of Disc Golf

Doug Bjerkaas has been a driving force in the growth of disc golf for over two decades. With his extensive experience as a tournament director, course designer, and industry professional, he brings a unique perspective to his new role as Executive Director of the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA). In an exclusive interview with DiscGolfer Magazine, Bjerkaas shares his vision for the future of disc golf.

Bjerkaas' journey in disc golf began in the mid-1990s when he was introduced to the sport by a local player. Initially struggling with his skills, he soon discovered that disc golf is not just about throwing and putting, but also about building relationships and connections with others. This understanding of the sport's potential has driven him to make an impact on a larger scale.

Before joining the PDGA, Bjerkaas was a sponsored player and worked for Dynamic Discs as their Events Coordinator. During his tenure, he designed and installed courses, founded the Rocky Mountain Women’s Disc Golf Championships (RMWDGC), and worked on several high-profile events, including the Glass Blown Open and the PDGA Pro Worlds. His dedication to disc golf was rewarded with the 2016 Brent Hambrick TD of the Year Award.

When asked about his experience working in the sport, Bjerkaas emphasized that he has been able to make a greater difference on a larger scale since joining Dynamic Discs full-time. He highlighted several initiatives, including starting the RMWDGC and working on the Paul McBeth Foundation's international projects, such as building a course in La Paz, Mexico.

Bjerkaas' decision to join the PDGA was driven by a desire to impact the sport more profoundly. With his new role, he plans to build upon the work of his predecessors and focus on growing disc golf globally and locally. He believes that the sport should be available to everyone, regardless of their background or location.

One area Bjerkaas is particularly excited about is the growth of disc golf in underserved communities. The PDGA has implemented several initiatives aimed at increasing access to disc golf for marginalized populations. These efforts include partnering with organizations like the Paul McBeth Foundation and developing programs that bring disc golf to schools and community centers.

When discussing potential opportunities for growth, Bjerkaas emphasized the importance of expanding disc golf globally. He highlighted recent developments in countries such as India, Mexico, and Puerto Rico, where new courses are being built, and tournaments are taking place. He also emphasized the need for more short beginner-friendly courses, citing their importance in attracting new players to the sport.

Bjerkaas is a strong advocate for leveraging data to drive decision-making within the PDGA. The recent acquisition of StatMando has provided valuable insights into player behavior and event participation. He believes that by analyzing this data, the organization can identify areas for improvement and make informed decisions about future events and initiatives.

Finally, Bjerkaas touched on the challenges facing the sport, including gender eligibility. While acknowledging the complexity of the issue, he emphasized the need to prioritize growth and expansion over getting bogged down in divisive debates. By focusing on building relationships and connections within the community, Bjerkaas believes that disc golf can continue to thrive and become a more inclusive and diverse sport.

As Bjerkaas looks to the future of disc golf, his vision is clear: grow the sport globally while maintaining its local roots. With his expertise, passion, and dedication, he is well-positioned to lead the PDGA towards a brighter and more inclusive future for all players.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/right-person-right-time