Smuggler's Notch to Host US Junior Championship in 2026, with Preparatory A-Tier Event This Summer

Smuggler's Notch Resort, affectionately known as "Smuggs," is a legendary disc golf destination that has been the site of numerous PDGA Majors and DGPT events, including two Pro Worlds and one Pro Masters Worlds. In 2018 and 2019, Smuggs successfully hosted the first two editions of the United States Junior Disc Golf Championship (USJDGC), a Major Championship for the MJ divisions and a third for the FJ divisions. Now, in 2026, Smuggler's Notch Resort will once again welcome the USJDGC as an A-Tier event.

However, before the big event in 2026, the resort is gearing up to host the Northeast Junior Championship (PDGA A-Tier) on August 16-18. This exciting competition will feature a 72-player junior field and offer a unique experience for young players. The tournament is open to registration, with a small fee that includes a big player's pack and qualification opportunities.

The resort has partnered with the Disc Golf Pro Tour (DGPT) and Disc Golf Vermont (DGVT) to create an unforgettable experience for junior competitors and their families. With its stunning natural beauty, waterparks, FunZone, hiking trails, and biking paths, Smuggler's Notch Resort offers a summer vacation paradise that complements the competitive disc golf atmosphere.

Tournament Director Jeff Spring expressed his enthusiasm for hosting the event: "Smuggs is rolling out the red carpet for Junior competitors and their families. We're excited to provide an exceptional experience, both on and off the course." Assistant TD Aidan Trombley, who serves on the PDGA Youth & Education Committee, added, "We're committed to supporting the growth of junior disc golf development, and we're honored to be part of this effort."

Chris Young, Vermont's PDGA State Coordinator, echoed Spring's sentiments: "We're building on the playbook that worked in 2018-19, and with the growth of youth disc golf around the region, we're excited to start building this event again!" The team is confident that the Northeast Junior Championship will be a premier event for junior players worldwide.

To register for the A-Tier event or learn more about the tournament, visit the website. Smuggler's Notch Resort is also offering a 40% discount on lodging for all junior competitors and their families for a four-night stay, making it an even more attractive option for young players and their families to attend.

As Isaac Robinson, PDGA World Champion in 2023, put it, "Smuggs is one of the most iconic venues in disc golf. It's an honor to compete here." The USJDGC in 2026 promises to be an unforgettable experience for junior competitors, and the Northeast Junior Championship this summer will be a fantastic opportunity for young players to test their skills on this legendary course.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/usjdgc-returns-2026