Thanks to the efforts of the project consortium of the Erasmus+ DISCKids project (Project: 101134145 – ERASMUS-SPORT-2023), which aims to get more kids moving by expanding access to high quality local disc golf activities in the EU and beyond, a first-of-its-kind clinic for disc golf coaches was carried out in Jyväskylä, Finland from June 17-19, 2024. 20 disc golf coaches from Germany, Latvia and the Czech Republic took part in the clinic, many supported by the Erasmus+ KA1 mobility grant of DISCKids project partner blinc eG, and spent three days learning about “Disc Golf for Kids” from expert coach Dr. Jouni Kallio, who runs the world-class junior program at the Finnish disc golf club „JyLi“ (Jyväskylän Liitokiekkoilijat).
The clinic focused on preparing coaches to offer high quality disc golf training and activities, focused on establishing general motor skills, strength and endurance in participants, giving them a foundation for a healthy adolescence and adulthood. This largely took the form of engaging and varied games and exercises, designed to be valuable components in a weekly disc golf activity for kids. Participants attended theory sessions in the mornings and then practical field work sessions in the afternoons.
Initial feedback for the course has been resoundingly positive, as all participants indicated that they had learned a lot about how to design and carry out high quality disc golf activities for kids, and that they would bring their new ideas back to their home clubs and begin implementing them.
Special thanks to the Finnish Disc Golf Association, JyLi Frisbeegolf and JyLi Juniors for helping make the clinic possible.