Training Trainers | Professional Disc Golf Association

**TITLE:** "PDGA Empowers Disc Golf Coaches with Comprehensive Training Program"

**META_TITLE:** "PDGA Latin America Introduces Certificate Program for Disc Golf Coaches | PDGALatinAmerica"

**META_DESCRIPTION:** "In its inaugural year, the PDGA Latin America Certificate Program equips 29 local disc golf leaders from 9 countries with formal coaching skills. The program's success sets the stage for future editions and growth of the sport in the region."

**ARTICLE:**

PDGA Latin America launched a bold initiative in 2022 to grow Disc Golf and promote PDGA activities across the emerging region. As the organization began implementing its programming, it became clear that certain needs could be transformed into valuable benefits for members. One pressing need was a formalized program to educate coaches.

The challenge of finding high-quality teaching content in Spanish was overcome through the introduction of Señor Leon Blanco #74135 from Spain. Leon is an accomplished Sports Educator who has developed a comprehensive program for teaching the basics of Disc Golf. His program meets the standards for official recognition within Spain's Physical Education system, and he also serves as the Spanish MPO Champion.

The selection process for students began in August 2024 with 46 applicants vying for spots. Thirty-five students were ultimately chosen to participate in the program, which consisted of two modules: online coursework and in-person field sessions. The online module featured 40 hours of interactive learning, where students played an active role in teaching and learning through Leon's participatory approach.

Upon completing the online module, students traveled to Colombia for the second module, which included 8 hours of direct coaching from Mr. Blanco and 8 practical hours of teaching experience. During this hands-on training, local disc golf leaders from 9 countries received instruction on throwing techniques, methods, and rules, as well as an opportunity to apply their skills in a fun doubles round with a coach.

The field sessions took place in the cities of Bogotá and Medellín, utilizing infrastructure acquired through PDGA's Marco Polo grants. In Bogotá, students trained at Club La Florida, while in Medellín, they used the John Paul II multi-sport park course built with the support of the Paul McBeth Foundation.

The success of this inaugural program has paved the way for future editions and growth within the region. Preliminary plans are underway to host the second edition in late 2025, potentially spanning two countries in the north and south regions. Identified improvements will be incorporated into the programming, maintaining the same structure as the first year's online + field + local modules.

The newly certified instructors will conclude their training in January and embark on a new chapter: spreading their knowledge to players in their home countries and communities. This Certificate Program marks a significant milestone for PDGA Latin America, demonstrating its commitment to developing local talent and promoting Disc Golf throughout the region.

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