2026 PDGA Junior Disc Golf World Championships Welcome Letter
Dear PDGA Junior World Championships Competitor,
We are excited to welcome you to the 2026 PDGA Junior Disc Golf World Championships presented by UPMC in Pittsburgh, PA from July 3rd to the 11th based on your excellent performance during the 2025 PDGA season. The PDGA and Pittsburgh Flying Disc are looking forward to seeing you in Western Pennsylvania later this year.
Host
Pittsburgh Flying Disc is ecstatic to welcome you to the 2026 PDGA Junior World Championships. From high quality courses, to local sporting events, internationally renowned museums, theme parks, and nearby natural areas, we invite you to explore the Western Pennsylvania region this summer. Our courses have never looked better and the local community is excited to show off the picturesque and challenging holes we get to play each week.
Informally founded in 1981, and officially formed in 1988, Pittsburgh Flying Disc was host to the 2015 PDGA Professional World Championships, the 2013 and 2017 Pittsburgh Flying Disc Open National Tour, and the 2022 DGPT Silver Series. This year, the club continues this tradition of great disc golf tournaments, some of which have included opportunities to play the layouts used for the Junior World Championships. Joining with PFD are several parks departments, municipalities, tourism bureaus, and sponsors. During your visit, you can expect plenty of non-competition events including glow rounds, Ultimate Frisbee Association and Major League Baseball games, ice cream social/pool party, recreational activities, and a variety of other social experiences. Mark and his team are grateful to be able to share all that the Pittsburgh region has to offer you.
The team looks forward to bringing together a world class staff from across the Mid-Atlantic region to support the 2026 PDGA Junior World Championships, ensuring you and your families have a fantastic experience while visiting the three rivers region. This community goes above and beyond to make disc golfers feel welcome, have joyful playing experiences, and leave with lasting memories.
Courses
Moraine State Park Disc Golf Course
Address: 124 Lakeview Beach Rd, Portersville, PA 16051 - Lakeview Disc Golf Course
Nestled within the woods adjacent to the shores of Lake Arthur, the Lakeview Disc Golf Course at Moraine State Park is widely regarded as one of the top-rated tracks in the world. This professional-grade, 18-hole course offers a stunning blend of scenic lakeside views and challenging, technical terrain. Designed to test the mettle of seasoned pros while remaining accessible to dedicated hobbyists, the layout winds through dense hardwoods requiring a strategic mix of power and precision on every throw. Installed in 2004, Lakeview has hosted hundreds of events including the 2015 PDGA Professional World Championships. Pittsburgh Flying Disc has worked with the park to keep this course exceptional and worth a special journey.
Whether you are competing in a high-stakes tournament or enjoying a casual round with friends, the course provides an immersive escape into Pennsylvania’s wilderness. Each hole is thoughtfully integrated into the natural landscape, featuring dramatic elevation changes and fairways that demand creative shot-shaping. After you finish your round, you’re just steps away from the park's north shore beach and premier hiking trails, making it the perfect centerpiece for a full day of outdoor adventure. (By Chris Lachendro, PFD Course Promoter)
Knob Hill Park Disc Golf Course
Address: 415 Knob Rd, Wexford, PA 15090 - Knob Hill Disc Golf Course
Knob Hill is true to its name, with striking downhill shots and huff n’ puff approaches to some fast greens. With many long, open and grassy fairways, a winding out of bounds creek, and plenty of hardwoods that force accurate throws, Knob Hill can be challenging for even the most seasoned disc golfers, while rewarding newer players with a multitude of lines for when it is time to scramble. True locals and many around the Pittsburgh Disc Golf Community call it the “World’s Number 1 Course”. When you play it, you will get a sense of why. You will feel the nostalgia of early disc golf design and history with touches of contemporary elegance.
The course opened in 1994 with current White Tee, A Pin layout, and expanded in stages to include Red, White and Blue tees and three pin placements per hole. Originally designed without a true course par it often played as an extremely difficult par 3 course. Prior to hosting Pro Worlds, Knob Hill received a make-over and installed brand new concrete pads for the Blue tees and upgraded its baskets to new Prodigy T1’s. In 2018 the course grew again, removing hole 11, extending hole 4 into a par 5 and adding a new par 3 hole 5. With this redesign an official tee sign course par was established at 63. Introducing official par 4s along the way with a few updated pin positions. After many years in 2021 the course added several more touches to the ever-evolving property when it installed brand new turf Red tee pads. Finally opening the door for more competition of junior and novice players. At that time, it also redesigned hole 16 to conform to the new parking lot layout.
Pittsburgh Flying Disc looks forward to showcasing this beautiful disc golf course with some more improvements completed this spring (including new Prodigy baskets) and expect the competitors to fall in love with this all-time great course the same way all around the local Pittsburgh area have.
Deer Lakes Park Disc Golf Course
Address: 105 Cattail Drive Tarentum, PA 15084 - 105 Cattail Dr
Discover one of Western Pennsylvania’s must play disc golf destinations at Deer Lakes Disc Golf Course. Since opening in 2006, this championship level gem has offered players an unforgettable blend of scenic beauty and elite course design. Set within 1,180 acres of rolling Allegheny County parkland, and named for its three shimmering fishing lakes and abundant deer population, Deer Lakes delivers an outdoor experience as memorable as the golf itself. Designed by J. Gary Dropcho, Tom Moeller, and Dan Sauers, the course was crafted to showcase both challenge and adventure. The thoughtfully designed front and back nine loops begin at the convenient Blue Gill parking area, where players can warm up on two dedicated practice baskets before taking on the full layout. The surrounding park elevates every visit with top tier amenities, including restrooms, water access, a splash park, playgrounds, outdoor fitness equipment, multiuse hiking, biking, and horseback trails, plus spacious pavilions ideal for gatherings and postround celebrations.
What truly sets Deer Lakes apart is its versatility and depth. With three tee pads and three basket locations on every hole, the course offers countless ways to play—whether you’re discovering it for the first time or returning for a new challenge. Expect technical wooded fairways, sweeping elevation changes, and thrilling high reward shot opportunities. From tight, gully lined corridors to rolling, open fairways with stunning views, every hole invites both precision and creativity.
Deer Lakes has also shined on the sport’s biggest stages. In 2015, it served as a host course for the Professional Disc Golf World Championships, quickly becoming a favorite among competitors. During the event, eventual World Champion Paul McBeth set a scorching course record 51 (-15), highlighted by an eagle on the formidable par 5 hole 3. Fans also witnessed Ricky Wysocki conquer the daunting par 5 hole 9 with an eagle in the demanding C position. Since then, the course has continued to evolve—maturing into a more polished, modern test that will once again challenge the sport’s rising stars during the 2026 PDGA Junior World Championships. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor chasing the perfect round or an outdoor enthusiast seeking a truly memorable experience, Deer Lakes Disc Golf Course offers world class disc golf in an unforgettable natural setting.
North Boundary Park Disc Golf Course
Opened in June 2019, North Boundary Park Disc Golf Course is the largest and most daunting challenge in the region. At over 10,000 feet in its longest configuration, this par 71 championship course has put some of the best disc golfers in the world to the test. Seated in the entire western end of the park, this course features drastic elevation changes, devilish side slopes, and touchy pin options.
Designed by J. Gary Dropcho and Doug Cloutier, the course opens with a few park style open holes, before the player is surrounded by mature woods, grassy fairways, and beautifully built-up stone tee and pin positions. Similar to many courses in the region, North Boundary Park Disc Golf Course features 3 tee pads and 3 pin positions on every hole allowing golfers to scale their distance and technicality as they improve. Along with the championship course, the property includes an ADA accessible 6 hole learn to play course, large pool, concessions, and gravel hiking trails.
The course has played host to a DGPT silver series event in 2022 and the annual A-tier, the Butler County Disc Golf Classic since its grand opening. With long tee pads, minimal out of bounds, and well taken care of fairways, this course will keep you coming back week after week. Both the front and back 9’s will guide you to one of the highest elevation points in the area before you come crashing back down through the trees to finish each loop. Come prepared with water, snacks, and plenty of nerve to attack your round at the North Boundary monster!
Brush Creek Park Disc Golf Course
Address: PA-588, Beaver Falls, PA 15010 - Brush Creek Disc Golf Course
Installed in 2023, Brush Creek Park Disc Golf Course is the newest 18 hole course in the greater Pittsburgh area. Designed by Don Rambo, this classic par 3 course is focused on introducing players to the game and providing a quiet, low traffic venue for disc golfers of every experience level to build their skills and play together. Featuring rolling hills, grassy fairways, and picturesque pin placements, this course serves as a testament to what focused course design can produce. Competitors of all ages will enjoy their visit to the park as it will play host to the field events on Sunday July 5th as well.
Lodging & Meetings
Hotel
Cranberry Township is the most central location for easy access to all courses. Experience Butler County and Team Travel Source have partnered with several hotels to offer rooms at discounted rates in Cranberry Township PDGA - Team Travel Source (please use this link to book your rooms).
Camping
There are several options for competitors and families planning to camp. Several options are close to particular courses. If you want to stay as central as possible, we recommend the travel portal in the above section or the campgrounds near North Boundary and Brush Creek Parks
Camping Near Brush Creek & North Boundary Parks:
Camping Near Moraine State Park:
Camping Near Deer Lakes Park:
Opening Ceremony
The Opening Ceremony will take place at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center on Monday, July 6th at 7pm. The primary flymart along with plenty of minigames will be available throughout the afternoon starting at 2:30PM!
Check-in
Player Check-in will be Monday, July 6th from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. Parking is available in the convention center parking garage for free for 15 minutes for you to complete the check-in process. As part of the flymart & Opening Ceremony, we will be providing a validated ticket for the garage to each competitor. This is a one-time use ticket for the garage so we recommend checking-in then leaving your vehicle in the garage to explore the city, or waiting to check-in until you know you will spend the rest of the time at the flymart until the Opening Ceremony. The convention center will have a concession stand available for families looking to spend the day checking out what our vendors have to offer and playing mini-games at the convention center!
Travel
Those flying to Junior Worlds will find the newly renovated Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) as the easiest and most convenient way to reach Pittsburgh by air. The airport is located roughly 1 hour from all tournament activities. Travel to Deer Lakes Park from Cranberry Township will most likely be via the PA Turnpike, I-76. It is recommended to have an EZ-Pass (or equivalent) for personal or rental vehicles to save on travel time & cost if you are competing at Deer Lakes park.
Website
More detailed information about everything surrounding the event can be found on the PDGA event webpage. (hi,... you found it)
Field Events
Long Drive and Putting Competition
Are you the most locked in putter? Can you put the most speed on the disc? We’ve got both covered at this year’s 2026 Junior Worlds Field Events. Sign-ups for these events will be held separately from the main event registration.
Registration for the 2026 Junior Long Drive and Putting Competitions will close Wednesday July 1st at 11:59PM Eastern. Field Events will take place on Sunday, July 5th at Brush Creek Park from 9:00AM to 3:00PM. Tee times for the Long Drive Competition will be assigned on July 4, 2026. Competitors must be present for their assigned competition time to compete. Putting will be completed on a first come first served basis between 9:00AM - 3:00PM on July 5th.
Entry fees - $10 per competition
- Registration Information for the Long Drive Competition
- Registration Information for the Putting Competition
Divisional Doubles
Divisional Doubles at Junior Worlds will be held on Saturday July 4th at the two finals courses, Moraine State Park in Portersville, PA and Knob Hill Park in Marshall Township, PA. Divisions will compete on their respective finals venues and competition layouts.
Entry Fees - Registration is $50 per team
MJ18 and MJ15: Moraine Lakeview DGC
FJ18, FJ15, FJ12, MJ12, FJ10, MJ10, FJ08, MJ08: Knob Hill DGC
This event will be a one round tee time event. Sign-ups for the event will be held separately from the main event registration and will be exclusively available to non-waitlisted Junior Worlds registrants Registration for 2026 Junior Worlds Divisional Doubles will close on Wednesday July 1st at 11:59PM Eastern.. The field is limited to 72 doubles teams at each course.
Registration Information for Divisional Doubles
Top finishers in Field Events and Doubles will receive merchandise payout from Pittsburgh Flying Disc that will be available throughout the event at the flymart on Monday July 6th and at other PFD vending locations later in the event.
Ancillary Events
Sunday, July 5
2:00 PM - Pittsburgh Thunderbirds vs Minnesota Windchill
Highmark Stadium, 510 W Station Square Dr
Catch elite ultimate action in a fast-paced, high-energy matchup featuring some of the top players in the sport. It’s a great chance for players and families to experience professional ultimate up close. Competitors and children 12 and under will receive free entry to the game! PFD will have a tent set up outside the stadium until the 1st quarter is over for you to pick up your tickets. If you arrive after the 1st quarter, you can pick up your tickets from the box office.
Monday, July 6
2:30 - 6:30 PM - Fly Mart and Games
David Lawrence Convention Center, 1000 Fort Duquesne Blvd
Featuring disc golf vendors, unique gear, and casual games and challenges, it’s the perfect place to explore after checking in or before the opening ceremony.
Tuesday, July 7
6:00 - 9:00 PM - Icecream Social and Pool Party
Veterans Memorial Pavillion at North Boundary Park, Cranberry Township
Cool off and connect after the first day of competition. Enjoy time in the pool then head over to the pavilion to grab a sweet treat from Bruster’s Real Icecream. It’s the perfect mix of recovery and celebration—just keep the ice cream out of the pool! NOTE: Each player only gets (1) one entry into the pool as part of their player pack, redeemable any single day of your choice.
Wednesday, July 8
6:40 PM - PFD Night at the Ball Park - Pittsburgh Pirates vs Atlanta Braves
PNC Park, 1 Mazeroski Way
Junior Worlds is taking over the stadium in this classic summer atmosphere! Pittsburgh Flying Disc will be featured as the nonprofit organization of the game, providing a unique opportunity to showcase our mission and celebrate those who help grow disc golf throughout the region. Tickets will be issued during player check-in at the David Lawrence Convention Center. Make sure to stop by the PFD tent on PNC’s Riverwalk (behind the seats in Right Field) to receive a free Pirates hat. All ticket holders get one! We will also be giving away PFD merch to lucky milestone guests, including 1st, 50th, 100th, and so on. Adding to the excitement, the Braves currently sit atop the league standings, making this a chance to see one of baseball's top teams in action.
Thursday, July 9
8:00 PM - Glow Disc Golf
Monroeville Park DGC (East) - 2336 Tilbrook Rd, Monroeville
As the sun drops, get ready for a glowing forest of illuminated baskets, glowing discs, and high-energy! This event is reserved for Junior competitors through July 5, after which it will open for anyone else ready to step into the glow.
For more information, and to register visit: 2026 PDGA Junior Disc Golf World Championship Glow Disc Golf
Friday, July 10
6:00 PM - Yinzer Hoedahn at Fun Fore All Family Fun Park
Fun Fore All Family Fun Park, 8 Progress Ave., Cranberry Township
Swing yer partner ‘rahnd-n-rahnd! Get ready for an evening of nonstop fun featuring 36 holes of award-winning miniature golf, go karts, batting cages, arcade games, duckpin bowling and more. We’re calling it the “Yinzer Hoedahn” just for fun - to showcase a little Pittsburghese, you can leave your cowboy gear at home. Innova Disc Golf Celebrity Ambassador, DJ Hek Yeh, will be providing the jams all night so you can hang until they kick us out. Bring your crew, jump into the action, and enjoy one of the high-energy hangouts of Junior Worlds week. Show your badge for 2-hour Fun Pass for $25
Off-Course Experiences
⭐ Moraine State Park SUP Ecotours
Use Code DISC15 for 15% off tours at Moraine State Park
Larger groups looking to set up a private tour are encouraged to contact [email protected] directly to explore options and availability.
⭐ Visit Pittsburgh - Show Your Badge
(Stop by the Visit Pittsburgh booth at the Convention Center to learn more!)
With 90 unique neighborhoods, 100+ fantastic accommodations, breathtaking views and urban adventure opportunities, award-winning culinary and craft beverage scenes, an array of arts and culture options and more, our city has something for every interest. Whether you’re in town spectating or taking down the championship, make the most of your time in Pittsburgh with these fan-favorite attractions:
Pittsburgh offers a visitor experience that goes far beyond just your event, plan your trip today!
⭐ Cranberry Summer Nights
July 9-11 - Community celebration featuring live music, food vendors, family activities, and a welcoming local festival atmosphere.
⭐ Big Butler Fair
July 3-11 - One of the largest and longest-running county fairs in Pennsylvania, offering a classic summer mix of carnival rides, live entertainment, fair food, agricultural exhibits, games and attractions.
⭐ Chairman’s Picks
While at Moraine State Park, rent a kayak, SUP, or boat. After that, head to McConnells Mill State Park for dramatic scenery with waterfalls, whitewater, and a historic covered bridge and mill.
In Cranberry Township, check out the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex, home to the Pittsburgh Penguins’ training facility along with a café, gift shop, museum exhibits, and public skating.
Under the skyline, ride the historic Duquesne Incline, visit the National Aviary—the country’s only national and largest indoor aviary—or history fans can explore the Heinz History Center showcasing Western Pennsylvania’s story, including disc golf in the sports exhibit.
General Info
Tournament Format: There will be a cut to 40% of the field following the 4th round. The final rounds will take place at Lakeview Disc Golf Course at Moraine State Park and Knob Hill Community Park Disc Golf Course on Saturday, July 11th. All rounds will utilize tee times. There will not be a final 9.
Flymart
The 2026 Junior World’s Fly Mart will take place on July 6th at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center before the Opening Ceremony. Contact TD Mark Fedorenko for more information on how to reserve a Vending Area at [email protected]
Sponsorship
This event would not be possible without the support of our presenting sponsor UPMC. Their generosity in sponsoring the event is what has provided so many of the amenities for competitors and daily events for families traveling into town.
We would also like to thank our course sponsors whose help has buoyed the efforts to revitalize all of the courses for the event.
- Prodigy Discs - Knob Hill Park
- Latitude64 - Moraine State Park and Deer Lakes Park
- Innova Discs - Brush Creek Park, North Boundary Park, and the Field Events
Additionally, please consider checking out all of our supporting partners including Mod Towel, Discraft, Grip It and Rip It Disc Golf, the University of Pittsburgh, SpeedPro Printing, Cranberry Township Parks and Recreation, Maple City Discs, Raven Designs, Zanfel, DJ Hek Yea, Experience Butler County, and Visit Pittsburgh.
As a personal note, I had to move to Columbus, OH for a new job in March of last year. Our local community of organizers, volunteers, and PFD came together to support this event in a way that I have not seen in my near decade of living in Pittsburgh. Our courses are in the best shape they have looked since I joined the disc golf community. We are proud to show what Pittsburgh and our community have to offer to all of you. If you see any of the volunteers or organizers out on the course, please be sure to thank them for their time and effort. We could not do this without them.
Sincerely, your 2026 PDGA Junior Worlds Team,
Tournament Director – Mark Fedorenko
Assistant Tournament Director – Matt Rosier
2026 Junior World Championships
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