I just started playing disc golf a few months ago and recently went to the USDGC.Steve Rico has been my favorite DG'er and I had the chance to watch him extensively at the USDGC.He seems to have no disc sponsor and very few friends on tour (noticed him by himself alot).Any reason why?Someone said there was a history but didn't know the details.Anyone know the story?I approached him and he was very cordial and inviting.Seems odd.Thanks in advance.

I don't think there is any "deal" with Steve. He is a great competitor and travels alot with his buddy Josh Anthon. I played the last round at the USDGC with him and his game is always right up there. He has used Magnets for such a long time in putting,and everything else is basically Innova. Even though he is not "officially" sponsored he is given discs at times for his use. I first met Steve when he was about 13,and he has always been a force to be considered on any leaderboard. As far as friends,he has them all over the US and abroad. He keeps to himself,is low key,and lets his play speak for him.

Hope this helps,
Deano...

Right on. Someone said at the USDGC that there was a "history" so I just wondered.I actually thought he was sponsored by Innova until I saw him using the Magnets in Rock Hill and someone told me he wasn't.From what I've seen he's a good as anyone out there.Definitely my favorite.Thanks for the answer. Congrats on the finish at USDGC

good to have little glimpses into the top pro ranks from time to time like this and also really interesting to learn he wasn't sponsored... like others I just assumed he was Innova.

Thanks for the info

Steve used to be sponsored by discraft. I always kind of thought, and my thinking could be wrong, but I always kinda figured the fact that steve is not sponsored by anyone kinda shows that unless you win worlds, or more recently the USDGC, there is no big advantage (financially anyway) to being sponsored beyond free cloths, free frisbees, and clout amongst your peers. Steve is definitly a tier one player, and yet it seems he shuns sponsorship, he prob has more frisbees than he will ever use.

good to have little glimpses into the top pro ranks from time to time like this and also really interesting to learn he wasn't sponsored... like others I just assumed he was Innova.

Thanks for the info



I heard he was INNOVA but was caught throwing Magnets and was kicked off the team.

That is definitely not true

I've heard many many rumors about Stevie and b/c they didn't come directly from him, I refuse to post them.

However, in my opinion, the reason he is not sponsered is b/c he loves the Teebird and the Magnet so much.

There is a DGWN interview with Steve from a couple of years ago that tells Steve's side of why he isn't sponsored. I only have a vague recollection, but what is there is that Steve decided to go it alone.

I keep hoping he'll win worlds or USDGC just because it would be awesome to have a World Champion / US Champion who isn't sponsored!

I got to play a round with Stevie before the 2004 World's in DSM. He was one of the nicest guys I've ever played a round with. Nate Doss and Worm were both there too. They were all class acts. Speaking of Worm...what is that guy up to these days?

I saw Worm at the Atlanta Open and he said he was just working a lot and just discin here and there for fun.

good to have little glimpses into the top pro ranks from time to time like this and also really interesting to learn he wasn't sponsored... like others I just assumed he was Innova.

Thanks for the info



I heard he was INNOVA but was caught throwing Magnets and was kicked off the team.



:oThats hilarious......
I can say that when he was sponsored by Discraft...He still used Whippets & Roc's. It was "Fun" to see the looks on Stokleys face at National Dubs in '99 as he watched Stevie use Whippets & Rocs(scrubbed clean with little "hawks" drawn on them :D) to beat him (and Me)
:D

He COULD be sponsored by ANYONE he likes BUT chooses not to be. At least as far as Disc manufacturers go. He has PLENTY of other sponsors... :cool:

I did see him wearing an IKON shirt at the USDGC.Is that the copier company?

I did see him wearing an IKON shirt at the USDGC.Is that the copier company?



IKON is the name of the Rico family Construction business..

I first met the Ricos in the early 90's when I first moved to CA. The entire family is very close and supportive of each other. It's really tough when both Bamba and Steve are in a final 9 at Oakgrove! Who to root for!!?? JR and Rachel are their parents and just wonderful, loving people as well.

Steve is just a shy person and doesn't get caught up in "As the Disc Turns." He IS one of the greatest players ever and I also hope he wins a world title really soon!! I played mixed doubles with Bamba at worlds in 1999 and we finished in last place money. He's also a sweetheart and I wish everything good for that family! They put a lot of time and sweat into this game and have really juiced up the Sylmar course.

Their cousin Freddie also plays and he's a true darling as well. I'm proud to say, they call me "Sister."

xoxoxoxoxoxo to the Rico Clan!

If you dont know Stevie well, you'll think he's pretty standoffish, once you get to know him, you see he really isn't just a great player, but a good person...

Stevie is just misunderstoood, Like Barsby...

Those asking about Worm...

I work with him, he's doin' good livin' the married life, he doesn't play much anymore, he's getting into ball golf a little and he's the one that introduced me to the great sport of disc golf to which I am now obsessed only 3 months and 2 tourneys in!

Worm's a great guy and has taught me most of what I know, he's been a great help and is always willing to give advice to which I am finding out most disc golfers are this way.

He's talking about maybe playing in this A-Tier (summer solstice) coming up in Birmingham, you all should come down and play! www.eatsleepdisc.com (http://www.eatsleepdisc.com) for more info, hope you don't mind the plug ChrisP, hehe...

Well...give Worm my best. Tell him the sport misses him. The tips he gave me back before the '04 Worlds on putting have been invaluable.

Steve has been one of the top two players in the world over the last 20 years. I have an extreme privilege to throw with Steve and Bamba at Sylmar frequently and one thing is absolutely certain. Both are their own men and they are utterly mind blowing to watch. Both are humble and appreciate the opportunity to help even the most green beginners in their pursuit of learning this game. If you're in LA, you won't have to try too hard to find either of them late afternoons during the week (Daylight Savings Time for sure) at Sylmar.

Steve is a super cool dude. First met him in 98 when he won the Hall of Chains event. A few years back he came to PIttsburgh with Bamba and Josh, they were so cool. PLayed everyday and even moved the baskets for us so they could practice all the layouts. Now that's some dedication.