The Unsung Heroes of Disc Golf: Meet Tournament Director Brad Pietz

As he presents Calvin Heimburg with the trophy at the 2022 Jonesboro Open, Brad Pietz exemplifies the dedication and passion of a true disc golf enthusiast. But behind every successful event is a team of unsung heroes, and for Pietz, being a tournament director (TD) is more than just a job – it's a calling.

Pietz's journey into disc golf began in 1984, when he was introduced to the sport by his father during the construction phase of the Clyde Fant Parkway course in Shreveport, Louisiana. This exposure sparked a lifelong love affair with disc golf, and Pietz soon found himself organizing events to share that excitement with others.

As a seasoned event manager with experience running high-profile events like football games and concerts, Pietz felt confident taking on his first disc golf tournament – the 2014 Mid-South Collegiate Open. He quickly realized that hosting an event is not just about logistics but also about creating a memorable experience for players and spectators alike.

According to Pietz, the top priority of a TD depends on the level of the tournament. For local events, it's essential to focus on providing a fun experience for amateur (AM) players. As tournaments progress to higher levels, such as the Elite Series, priorities shift towards ensuring a fair contest with strict rules and course requirements.

Pietz's approach is twofold: he strives to create a world-class venue while also making sure players have an enjoyable time competing. He attributes his success in part to being prepared for any question or scenario that may arise during the event.

For those hosting their first tournament, Pietz advises being open and honest if unsure of a particular aspect of the event. "Say you don't know, and you'll try to find out," he recommends, emphasizing the importance of being transparent and willing to adapt.

One often-overlooked aspect of event organization is cleanup after the tournament. Pietz emphasizes that leaving the course and parking area in its original state demonstrates respect for the venue and its owners, which can lead to future collaborations.

The Jonesboro Open, a staple on the Disc Golf Pro Tour (DGPT), has undergone significant growth since its inception in 2017. From humble beginnings with only 54 MPO players to this year's record-breaking numbers, Pietz credits his background in event management for helping him navigate the challenges of hosting an Elite Series tournament.

Pietz attributes the Jonesboro Open's success to the unique design of Disc Side of Heaven, particularly the Championship Course, which is tailored to challenge even the best professional players. He takes pride in having created a course that pushes golfers to their limits while ensuring a fun experience for spectators as well.

When asked about his favorite hole on the Championship Course, Pietz reveals that Hole #16 was designed with precision in mind. This shorter Par 5 consistently demands strategic decision-making from top players each year.

As for the Recreational Course, Pietz's affection for Hole #14 is evident due to its stunning natural setting and challenging layout.

Pietz's passion for disc golf shines through as he shares his insights on being a tournament director. He embodies the spirit of community and sportsmanship that makes disc golf events so special – a testament to the dedication and enthusiasm of those who make these experiences possible.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/td-spotlight-brad-pietz