Madison Tomaino: Educating and Advocating | Professional Disc Golf Association

Madison Tomaino has been making waves in the world of disc golf, and it's not hard to see why. As the recipient of the prestigious Becky Zallek Award 2023, Madison is being recognized for her tireless efforts in promoting women's disc golf and creating inclusive events that bring players together.

But what makes Madison stand out from the rest? According to those who know her best, it's her unwavering dedication to creating a supportive and encouraging community. "She allows players to have input, makes sure different divisions are taken care of according to their skills, she makes sure she is available for any questions regarding rules, etc.," one nomination form reads.

Madison's journey into disc golf began in 2013, when she started playing competitively and quickly fell in love with the sport. But it wasn't until her husband started running sanctioned events that she discovered her true calling as a Tournament Director (TD). With her first all-women's tournament in 2021 being a huge success, Madison knew she had found her niche.

As one of the most prominent women's disc golf leaders in Oregon, Madison has built a thriving community of players who feel encouraged and supported. Her events are known for their inclusivity, with features like on-site bathrooms, identical divisions for mixed and women-only players, and a focus on creating a positive and fun atmosphere.

But what sets Madison apart is her commitment to empowering other women in the sport. As one nomination puts it, "Madison continues to be a huge driving force for the women in the Pacific Northwest... She has done so much for our community." By sharing her knowledge, expertise, and passion with others, Madison is helping to grow women's disc golf and create a more inclusive environment.

So what advice does Madison have for aspiring TDs? "Learn from others' mistakes," she says. "Know the PDGA rules, and if you don't know something, know where to look it up. Follow the PDGA rules and guidelines. Be approachable and kind." And most importantly, remember that "don't be discouraged by small numbers" – with perseverance and a positive attitude, anything is possible.

Madison's dedication to women's disc golf has earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of the state PDGA coordinators and leading the Oregon Women's Series. But it's not just about recognition – it's about creating a lasting impact on the sport and inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.

As we celebrate Madison Tomaino as the 2023 recipient of the Becky Zallek Award, we're reminded of the importance of inclusivity, support, and empowerment in promoting women's disc golf. By following Madison's lead, we can build a brighter future for this amazing sport – one that's more inclusive, fun, and supportive than ever before.

The Becky Zallek Legacy

In honoring Madison Tomaino with the Becky Zallek Award 2023, we're also paying tribute to the pioneering spirit of Becky Zallek herself. A trailblazer in the world of disc golf, Becky's tireless efforts helped grow the sport in central Iowa and paved the way for future generations of players.

Becky's achievements are a testament to her dedication and commitment to promoting disc golf. From spearheading the growth of disc golf courses in central Iowa to hosting the 2004 Pro/Am PDGA World Championships, Becky left an indelible mark on the sport. Her legacy continues to inspire us today, and we're honored to recognize Madison Tomaino as a worthy recipient of the award that bears her name.

By celebrating women like Madison Tomaino and Becky Zallek, we're reminded of the power of inclusivity, support, and empowerment in creating lasting change. As disc golf continues to grow and evolve, it's clear that pioneers like these two trailblazers will continue to pave the way for future generations of players – one tournament at a time.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/2024-becky-zallek-award-winner