The perception that disc golf is the "stoner sport" has often amused me. Many are convinced that this is true and many discussions of the issue have occurred. I've often argued that this is probably perception and that we have no greater number of smokers than any other sport/activity.

Anecdotal yes, but I had a fun conversation with an avid ball golfer that uses my gym, yesterday. This guy plays ball golf 3 to 4 times a week and at various courses. He remarked quite firmly that he rarely plays a round where he doesn't smell the sweet odor of burning hemp. He feels that smoking is endemic in the ball golf crowd. Funny that.

I often wonder if we don't create a problem for ourselves here by focusing so much on this issue and giving it credence. The fact is that marketing is often 90% of the battle and has little relevance to reality. If we view ourselves as the stoner sport, we pretty much make our worst fears come true. Maybe we need to start viewing ourselves as something else?

...and not embrace our tie-dyed roots? lol

It IS in the air I tell ya.

I kind of agree, but I doubt Tiger has ever had his competitors pulling out a pipe during a tourney.

Disc golf doesn't see itself as a stoner sport; it doesn't even see itself as a sport.

I kind of agree, but I doubt Tiger has ever had his competitors pulling out a pipe during a tourney.

Disc golf doesn't see itself as a stoner sport; it doesn't even see itself as a sport.

....and the rest of the world doesn't see disc golf as a stoner sport; it doesn't see it at all.

I play golf at least once a week and I have never seen or smelled the odor of pot on the ball golf course, except,,,,, when playing with some of my disc golf buddies.

Maybe if it wasn't discussed publicly on every forum, then maybe it would get out of the publics eye. So many Dgers discuss the fact players smoke and thus the public sees this and puts the label on us.

Maybe if it wasn't discussed publicly on every forum, then maybe it would get out of the publics eye. So many Dgers discuss the fact players smoke and thus the public sees this and puts the label on us.

Yeah, I'm sure the public is reading this and going, "Hm. Disc golfers smoke pot? I woulda never known!"

The guys who smoke a bowl in the parking lot, during and after their rounds were the tip off for me. There are too many people who really don't care if the sport gets any bigger. Most guys just want to go out to the course to socialize with their buddies and throw some discs, smoke, have a beer or ten,etc.

Here in California...(add whatever you want here).

Mule makes a good point. :)

I play golf at least once a week and I have never seen or smelled the odor of pot on the ball golf course, except,,,,, when playing with some of my disc golf buddies.

I always take note when I'm out somewhere and "it smells like disc golf" and I'm not on a disc golf course. I take note because it's only happened like 3 times in the last 5 years. :( Last time was at the Poinsettia Bowl last year.

I guess I should go to more concerts...

I always take note when I'm out somewhere and "it smells like disc golf" and I'm not on a disc golf course. I take note because it's only happened like 3 times in the last 5 years. :( Last time was at the Poinsettia Bowl last year.

I guess I should go to more concerts...It is hard to walk around in Ann Arbor and not smell the disc golf! But i've never smelled disc golf at Hillsdale where Kelsey goes to school.

It is hard to walk around in Ann Arbor and not smell the disc golf! But i've never smelled disc golf at Hillsdale where Kelsey goes to school.

That's a good point about AA. At PAW2000 there were comments about Ann Arbour being the home of the $5 possession ticket. :) I guess those over-worked football players have to unwind somehow.

I have smelled it at dg events, and at during some casual rounds, but, I grew up in Oregon and I smelled it at least as frequently at high school football games, in the "hype type" smoker area near school, and at every concert I ever went to.

I went to college during the coke is the drug of choice period, and trust me, you didn't have to be playing dg to be partaking. The reality is that we have a multi-billion dollar habit and if anyone thinks that dg plays any kind of a major roll in this, they're fooling themselves.

I've seen more beer consumed at softball games, on the field, than I've seen drugs at dg events. Again, the point is perception. While I don't like drug use, I think our efforts to somehow purify the sport by eliminating this minor issue, does more harm than simply ignoring it does.

Nonetheless, when my teenage son plays in a PDGA event and tells me afterward about the smoking and drinking that occurred in his group in the MA1 division, as a parent I'm not too pleased. He's playing in another tournament this weekend and has already asked the TD whether these rules will be enforced - he says he'll have no problem reporting calling someone out and reporting drinking and drugs to the TD, as long as he's backed up.

My current dilemma has to do with drinking and smoking cigarettes on a course in a city park that prohibits both. I'm starting to get pressure from public works staff about the volume of beer cans in the trash cans and on the ground, as well as the number of cig butts littered around. It points towards a lack of respect for public property and for other people in general. But this seems to be a common thread among some (not all, not even many) participants in "alternative" sports. I sit on the local parks and rec board and got to hear a report last week about having to shut down out local skateboard park because of vandalism and refusal to wear safety gear - oh, and the vulgar and threatening language that came along with the park closing. So what to the skaters do? They turn to riding through the rest of the park, grinding on any available surface (and defacing it in the process). We don't have the same issues with softballers, basketballers, etc. (except for some weekend adult soccer groups, that is).

It's not just disc golf, but it is also disc golf, and that's the problem for us (or at least me).

Sorry about the rant and drift...the smoking talk got me started.

People are idiots. I guess that's the bottom line. My enjoyment of the Worlds Biggest fundraiser tourney was absolutely diminished by the illegal smokers and illegal drinkers in that park playing in the event. I stay away from almost all local weekly and monthly events because I choose not to be in that environment.

The number of discgolfers who smoke is greater in lower ranks and during casual rounds than at the top level of the sport. When I started playing I enjoyed a bit of herbal stimulation. As I started playing in am. Events I would smoke with those around me. As I got to be on the top cards in the advanced field the smoking was much less and since I have been playing open I have not witnessed a player or group at this level openly smoking. I think that the casual smoking might impact fundraising forsmaller events but as the sport grows the focus will be on the pros. As long as the pros are acting professional all should be good.
I worked at a ball golf course for a while and had a guy put his stash container on the desk while he searched for his wallet.

[QUOTE=Lyle O Ross;1391472]The perception that disc golf is the "stoner sport" has often amused me. Many are convinced that this is true and many discussions of the issue have occurred. I've often argued that this is probably perception and that we have no greater number of smokers than any other sport/activity.

He feels that smoking is endemic in the ball golf crowd. Funny that.

I often wonder if we don't create a problem for ourselves here by focusing so much on this issue and giving it credence. The fact is that marketing is often 90% of the battle and has little relevance to reality. QUOTE]

Over the years I remember hearing many an upper crust PDGA member complaining about how pot smoking is keeping the sport down. Personally, I think its a weak excuse and always have, an easy target to scape goat over bad decisions and a lack of growth/acceptance. I agree with everything Lyle is saying about marketing and think that is the major factor in what is holding down the PDGA.

There is talk on another thread about head shops selling discs. When we opened 4 years ago, we were way ahead of our time and struggled to meet overhead. As I know several glass blowers, I looked into bringing it into the store. In the end I decided against it. Id rather our business be known as a disc golf proshop, and I didnt want to create an enviroment where people couldnt bring thier kids in, or rather, wouldnt want to. I agree that it is pretty widespread, but I also think the same group of people keep this crap alive when everyone else really isnt focused on it.

As far as ball golfers go, when the TPC comes to town several caddies of high profile players visit a person I know. Basically, they carry more than the GOLF bag. Ball golfers, for the most part, are more concerned about personal image than they are about the image of the game. Maybe thats part of the problem. Disc golfers rarely care what people think about them and the 20k ( if that ) active PDGA members are far outweighed by the million rec players.

I feel Rizbees' concerns for his son. If it was an Adult only tourney it could be less aggravating in ways. When a Tournament director states that uses of substances would result in disqualification then i agree that people should have the right to complain.
There are also fire hazard concerns in many courses as well as municipal laws regarding just smoking which could violate our rights to enjoy the property being used.

Maybe it would be good to ask them to walk about 100-200 feet away, then steal their putters in return for the nuisance factor.
Today i played a local course and came across 22 littered beer cans laying around the course mainly by teepads. I am not saying disc golfers left them there but it doesnt look cool or very attractive to the father and son out trying to enjoy their morning on the course. I didnt see that on the playground, softball field, tennis courts, or even the BBQ pits, so there you go. Just throw a Buzzz without getting buzzed!!

Floyd

Today i played a local course and came across 22 littered beer cans laying around the course mainly by teepads.

Floyd

Did you pick any of them up?

Yes Sir i did. Only 4-5 cans that were near trash cans until one smelled of urine, a tall can. Its not like i am out to count them on the course but one hole had 6 cans then the next had 5 and so on. Just thought it was a little sloppy of some folks to be so messy.
The good thing was that i had no Bogeys. So i guess it pays to clean up a little :)

Floyd

Great job man! It starts with you. I also am working on my course cleanup skills, and avoid the cans that smell like urine. Its good advice.

Nonetheless, when my teenage son plays in a PDGA event and tells me afterward about the smoking and drinking that occurred in his group in the MA1 division, as a parent I'm not too pleased. He's playing in another tournament this weekend and has already asked the TD whether these rules will be enforced - he says he'll have no problem reporting calling someone out and reporting drinking and drugs to the TD, as long as he's backed up.

My current dilemma has to do with drinking and smoking cigarettes on a course in a city park that prohibits both. I'm starting to get pressure from public works staff about the volume of beer cans in the trash cans and on the ground, as well as the number of cig butts littered around. It points towards a lack of respect for public property and for other people in general. But this seems to be a common thread among some (not all, not even many) participants in "alternative" sports. I sit on the local parks and rec board and got to hear a report last week about having to shut down out local skateboard park because of vandalism and refusal to wear safety gear - oh, and the vulgar and threatening language that came along with the park closing. So what to the skaters do? They turn to riding through the rest of the park, grinding on any available surface (and defacing it in the process). We don't have the same issues with softballers, basketballers, etc. (except for some weekend adult soccer groups, that is).

It's not just disc golf, but it is also disc golf, and that's the problem for us (or at least me).

Sorry about the rant and drift...the smoking talk got me started.

I'm in 100% agreement with you on this, it's like the environmental movement in my eyes. Think globally, but act locally. If we act locally at our own tournaments, we solve the problem. If we spend hours discussing it at a national level, we increase the perception that we have a problem that the national organization can or should address. I want to keep our solutions on this local. Let the national organization think about other problems and not make this a marquee of our sport. It's sort of like rules calling, the organization can't afford to police us... we also can't afford the perception that the PDGA has to police our drug use.

BTW I do think the PDGA needs to empower and require TDs and local organizers to act. If local players and organizers solve these problems, then the PDGA doesn't have to. OMG - I sound like a conservative... :)

I too am the father of Teen disc golfer. Here in North Carolina it is illegal to drink Beer, wine, Etc in public parks. Our home course is not a multi-use park. It is solely a disc golf course. We have 50 gal. trash cans on 9 of the 18 holes at the tee pads. Most times they are filled to over flowing with beers cans and I do mean over flowing cans on the ground around the trash cans.
I agree this is recreational / casual play. But my son also reports back to about conduct on his cards. Now that he has moved up to advanced it’s not as bad. As far a pros in our area they are some what good about covering their beer can with towels with their Sponsors name on them.
There will always be two sides to this debate. Lets Think about the future of our great sport. Just think about it “_____” is shown on TV. “insert the stupidest sport you have ever seen on TV in the Blank.” Then ask your self why cant we get Disc Golf shown to the masses.

I think the problem, as said before, is that for most people this is a leisure activity. Alot of people have no idea what the PDGA is or how hard others are working to try to get this game mainstream.

I played a B-tier and didn't "smell disc golf" once the whole weekend. That included all day Sunday (7:15 AM to 8:30 PM) where the wife and I sat around barbequeing hot-dogs while we between rounds for several hours. It was very nice. :)

There will always be two sides to this debate. Lets Think about the future of our great sport. Just think about it �_____� is shown on TV. �insert the stupidest sport you have ever seen on TV in the Blank.� Then ask your self why cant we get Disc Golf shown to the masses.
Because we aren't willing to pay for it, of course.

You want to know why Darts and Billiards are on TV? Hell, WSOP Main Event was on ESPN long before it became a ratings hit after Chris Moneymaker won. Darts and billiards (and previously poker) are on television because they pay for their air time. Or rather: because their sponsors pay for it. They are sports held in a small enclosed space, banners can EASILY be placed strategically for maximum exposure. Sponsors like this, and throw them tons of cash, in turn they throw most of that cash to pay for air time on ESPN.

We aren't on TV because we can't pay for the air time. Easy and simple as that. The "X is on TV but disc golf isn't, why is that?" argument doesn't work. If anything massive beer and cigarette product placement would help us get on television. Sadly it would also do even more to hurt the image of the sport if we go in that direction, allowing the showing of competitors drinking and smoking cigs on the course. (and don't bring up the Angel Cabrera/John Daly point: every sport can have the occasional quirky chainsmoker. But having everybody smoking....)


-Chris.

I wonder if we passed a rule that everyone had to smoke a cigar on the course, if we'd get a sponsorship?

I recently had a interview for a systems specialist position with the FAA (Federal Aviations Administration). During the interview everything went great. At the end of the interview, one of the panel asked me what I like to do in my spare time. Without delay, I answered "I'm an avid disc golfer". To my horror the guy knew what disc golf was, and replied "You know we drug test right?". Well, me being the square that I am, I was offended. This guy, in what little knowledge he had of "frisbee golf", assumed that I must smoke weed if I play. The sad thing was, he wasn't smiling. So I left the interview on that note. From now on, when people ask what I like to do, I'm just gonna answer "work on classic cars" and let them think of me holding a coors light.

I recently had a interview for a systems specialist position with the FAA (Federal Aviations Administration). During the interview everything went great. At the end of the interview, one of the panel asked me what I like to do in my spare time. Without delay, I answered "I'm an avid disc golfer". To my horror the guy knew what disc golf was, and replied "You know we drug test right?". Well, me being the square that I am, I was offended. This guy, in what little knowledge he had of "frisbee golf", assumed that I must smoke weed if I play. The sad thing was, he wasn't smiling. So I left the interview on that note. From now on, when people ask what I like to do, I'm just gonna answer "work on classic cars" and let them think of me holding a coors light.

Next time try laughing. "Smile and say, I had assumed that in any federal job there would be random drug testing, since I don't do drugs that's not a problem."

People assume all kinds of things about all kinds of sports and activities. It may be impolite, but it is reality

Next time try laughing. "Smile and say, I had assumed that in any federal job there would be random drug testing, since I don't do drugs that's not a problem."

People assume all kinds of things about all kinds of sports and activities. It may be impolite, but it is reality

I think you tell the interviewer that you are aware of the policies and that you have no problem with a drug test or any other test and that you likely know a lot more about flight properties than other applicants.

The number of discgolfers who smoke is greater in lower ranks and during casual rounds than at the top level of the sport. When I started playing I enjoyed a bit of herbal stimulation. As I started playing in am. Events I would smoke with those around me. As I got to be on the top cards in the advanced field the smoking was much less and since I have been playing open I have not witnessed a player or group at this level openly smoking. I think that the casual smoking might impact fundraising forsmaller events but as the sport grows the focus will be on the pros. As long as the pros are acting professional all should be good.
I worked at a ball golf course for a while and had a guy put his stash container on the desk while he searched for his wallet.

While the pros act professional during the rounds I have witnessed more than one top 10 rated players spark up on the nearest bench as soon as the round is over with no concern for who sees it. It is irresponsible to say that the marijuana "problem" is only an issue at the lower levels.

I recently had a interview for a systems specialist position with the FAA (Federal Aviations Administration). During the interview everything went great. At the end of the interview, one of the panel asked me what I like to do in my spare time. Without delay, I answered "I'm an avid disc golfer". To my horror the guy knew what disc golf was, and replied "You know we drug test right?". Well, me being the square that I am, I was offended. This guy, in what little knowledge he had of "frisbee golf", assumed that I must smoke weed if I play. The sad thing was, he wasn't smiling. So I left the interview on that note. From now on, when people ask what I like to do, I'm just gonna answer "work on classic cars" and let them think of me holding a coors light.

I realize that any position in the modern the work environment should be concerned about the exploits on its employees, and concerns for what they may do on their personal time is held in account within the american occupational arena. For that, I am confident that my personal enjoyment of watching plastic hit metal chains should not disqualify me from consideration of this employment opportunity, nor should I fail any assessment that you feel shall find me as a qualified individual to help this organization grow.

I hope that you did not get disqualified because of this comment. If you did, I would seek legal counsel. It is bad enough that employers drug test, but that is something that is common place in our society, but the elimination of consideration based on a person's activities outside of the work environment is grounds for a good lawsuit.

I think you tell the interviewer that you are aware of the policies and that you have no problem with a drug test or any other test and that you likely know a lot more about flight properties than other applicants.

Yep! But smile while you're saying it.

I realize that any position in the modern the work environment should be concerned about the exploits on its employees, and concerns for what they may do on their personal time is held in account within the american occupational arena. For that, I am confident that my personal enjoyment of watching plastic hit metal chains should not disqualify me from consideration of this employment opportunity, nor should I fail any assessment that you feel shall find me as a qualified individual to help this organization grow.

I hope that you did not get disqualified because of this comment. If you did, I would seek legal counsel. It is bad enough that employers drug test, but that is something that is common place in our society, but the elimination of consideration based on a person's activities outside of the work environment is grounds for a good lawsuit.

I disagree with Jack. While what he is saying here will, IMO, work, it carries a huge risk. The guy is likely to think 'okay wiseguy, you win this round, but the day you goof up, your gone.' Since we all goof up, we should angle for a position that makes them support us.

Jack's approach feels good, and frankly, is one that I'd want to use myself, but it is likely that you'll have an overall negative outcome.

Some days, the world is unfair, this is just one example. If you start with an aggressive stance in an area where it is considered inappropriate, you lose. If you really want revenge for this question, suck up, get the offer, then make them pay where it really counts, negotiate that extra 5% in salary. That, sad as it is, is appropriate. I've seen people be down right rude about starting salaries.

starting salary is the only time you have leverage to get what you want from an employer. Once in the system, it is very hard to get any additional monies. You have to get all you can at first, and if they balk, then you may have to offer to take less, but don't do it as a strong willed person. Ask for what you want, then if they say we will offer less, ask them for a couple of days to consider, determine what your true bottom line is, and then counter offer, or if they said that's it, then......you should have had conversations about salary though prior to an offer. You shouldhave a feeling after the second interview of the salary component, if you don't......ASK

starting salary is the only time you have leverage to get what you want from an employer. Once in the system, it is very hard to get any additional monies. You have to get all you can at first, and if they balk, then you may have to offer to take less, but don't do it as a strong willed person. Ask for what you want, then if they say we will offer less, ask them for a couple of days to consider, determine what your true bottom line is, and then counter offer, or if they said that's it, then......you should have had conversations about salary though prior to an offer. You shouldhave a feeling after the second interview of the salary component, if you don't......ASK


You'll all be happy to know I got a call with a job offer to work for the FAA. I even got to negotiate my starting salary and got it way over what I was expecting! I did already take my pre-employment drug screening too!

Although I took offense to the remark initially, after speaking with the directors and HR people I did not get the feeling that they were worried about me failing any tests. I think it was just a joke from a guy with a dry sense of humor. lol

I recently had a interview for a systems specialist position with the FAA (Federal Aviations Administration). During the interview everything went great. At the end of the interview, one of the panel asked me what I like to do in my spare time. Without delay, I answered "I'm an avid disc golfer". To my horror the guy knew what disc golf was, and replied "You know we drug test right?". Well, me being the square that I am, I was offended. This guy, in what little knowledge he had of "frisbee golf", assumed that I must smoke weed if I play. The sad thing was, he wasn't smiling. So I left the interview on that note. From now on, when people ask what I like to do, I'm just gonna answer "work on classic cars" and let them think of me holding a coors light.

Wow I'm glad I read this. Now I'll be prepared if that comes up in and interview. Need to have a response like "Good, I'm glad to hear it because I want to work in a drug-free environment." or something like that. I would have been totally caught off guard if put in the same situation, b/c since I don't smoke I've never really thought that others would assume I do since I play disc golf. It sucks that to that guy (and many others) if they hear your a disc golfer then you must also smoke. That's how entwined the public vision of DG and MJ are. I've never heard anyone say "You play golf? Then you must also like illegal drugs too."

Thanks Big John!

It is bad enough that employers drug test, but that is something that is common place in our society, but the elimination of consideration based on a person's activities outside of the work environment is grounds for a good lawsuit.

Why is it bad that an employer drug test their employees? I can't beleive that you would make such a irresponible statement. I had an employee lose their leg because a union employee who was not drug tested ran him over with a forklift. Since hae had to be drug tested at that point gues what they found? Traces of cocaine and THC. Yeah your right. It's bad that companies drug test their employees. By the way, it's not grounds for a lawsuit.

You'll all be happy to know I got a call with a job offer to work for the FAA.

Congrats, and welcome to the "I have something major to lose if the cops roll up on this tournament card with me and four guys smoking dope" club.

maybe you should propose random checkpoints, along the course, for tournaments in ignoramusville?

maybe you should propose random checkpoints, along the course, for tournaments in ignoramusville?

What?

Are you one of the ones that thinks smoking dope and chugging beer on the course isn't exclusive? Disc golf should be inclusive to all, not just for those willing to be in a beer-n-pot situation in a public park.

What?

Are you one of the ones that thinks smoking dope and chugging beer on the course isn't exclusive? Disc golf should be inclusive to all, not just for those willing to be in a beer-n-pot situation in a public park.



Don't you have at least 50 pot-shops within 5 miles of your house? I mean it is legal in Cali with a script.

What?

Are you one of the ones that thinks smoking dope and chugging beer on the course isn't exclusive? Disc golf should be inclusive to all, not just for those willing to be in a beer-n-pot situation in a public park.

i'm not sure how you arrive at such conclusions. you seem at your wits end. i was trying to offer a proactive solution even though i couldn't care less. good luck with not losing your major things.

Congrats, and welcome to the "I have something major to lose if the cops roll up on this tournament card with me and four guys smoking dope" club.

If he's not poking smot, he's got nothing to worry about.

I mean it is legal in Cali with a script.

It's legal to smoke dope in a public park with a Px?

Why is it bad that an employer drug test their employees? I can't beleive that you would make such a irresponible statement. I had an employee lose their leg because a union employee who was not drug tested ran him over with a forklift. Since hae had to be drug tested at that point gues what they found? Traces of cocaine and THC. Yeah your right. It's bad that companies drug test their employees. By the way, it's not grounds for a lawsuit.

Testing after an accident is completely within the guidelines, and should be looked at, but if you drug test an employee on day 1, then never again, and you have a person that did this event, how would you identify it?

What a person does on their own time should not eliminate them from being considered. Now it is, and most places with over 50 employees will.

The lawsuit question arises, because if a person is not chosen because of a perceived possiblity to smoke pot because they play disc golf, and are removed from consideration because of that, it would be grounds for a lawsuit, as it has nothing to pertain to the scope of the position, and is speculation that could not be argued as to facts, and therefore would be a legal case of discrimination. That was what I was referring to. You have to elimnate conadidates from consideration based on responses to questions as to the ability to perform the functions of the job, that case that I described is not such an example, and shuold be something pressed to legal, if it removed them from consideration. In this case it is a moot point, and you have a smart ***** person obviously making hiring decisions, that an HR professional should work with to prevent from amking comments that could be used against the company in a court of law.

Just trying to help. I am not saying that no one should be drug tested, I just think that for the most part most positions do not put people in harms way, when that position does, as the example that you gave, it makes sense to ensure that your workforce is properly balanced and maintained. However if a factory has 0 incidents over a 2 year window, and then gets busted for a drug ring, should it have mattered? Once an accident occurs, then by all means address everyone involved, the injured party, the party that did the injury, the supervisor overseeing the location, all people shuold be required to immediately get tested. If it is an oversight on the foreman because they were high, and the other workers involved were not high, then it should make sense that the supervision component would be to blame.

I think that there is a fine line to protecting employees, and protecting individual freedoms, and the drug testing of the workplace is very close, yet the courts have upheld it, so it moves forward.

I work for a company that does not drug test unless there appears to be an issue with the employee. We have over 40,000 employees in our organization. Also if an employee is in an accident, all members of the team go to get tested immediately, or sign a waiver that their blood will be screened upon any accident involving company property. Then we offer methods to help overcome these addictions for those that have them.

Sorry, as a member of the HR field for over 18 years now, I have seen quite a bit, and I truly do enjoy talking about HR about as much as I do disc golf.

Why is it bad that an employer drug test their employees? I can't beleive that you would make such a irresponible statement. I had an employee lose their leg because a union employee who was not drug tested ran him over with a forklift. Since hae had to be drug tested at that point gues what they found? Traces of cocaine and THC. Yeah your right. It's bad that companies drug test their employees. By the way, it's not grounds for a lawsuit.

Thanks I was going to make the same type of post. I retired as a project manager for a large auto manufactor. I know what you mean. I have had drunks and high forklift drivers take out walls, columns and any thing else you can think of. our policy was drug test before hiring. and after any accident. But I also had suppervisors cover for buddies (no one seemed to know who ran into the object.)

Why is it bad that an employer drug test their employees? I can't beleive that you would make such a irresponible statement.


Its not an irresponsible statement, it is merely a statement, you interpret as irresponsible, because you don't agree with my statement. I stand by what I said. And agree with the scenario that you posted as well.

If he's not poking smot, he's got nothing to worry about.

He could be a convicted felon that's served his time and paid his debt and is now looking for a new activity that doesn't revolve around a bar. Being on that card could be a violation of his probation or parole.

Disc golf isn't a viable activity for such a person. Hence our sport excludes those that can't be caught in the vicinity of our vices.

Thanks for pointing that out.

I must be unique in this forum, but in 14 years of play I've only encountered pot smokers on the course a handful of times. In the parking lot is another thing, of course. Owing much to the people I hang out with or my age group, no doubt.

Those who light up on the course are clearly indifferent to the risk of damaging disc golf's reputation in the community or with the park authorities, with the potential to lose a course or be denied future courses. But it's also surprised me that it never occurs to them that they could be putting people near them at risk. A bust, though unlikely, might envelope the whole group. The non-smokers may be in legal jeapardy, as you suggest, or may have a job endangered by an arrest or association (teacher, public official, air traffic controller), or may have a family and tight budget and can't afford the time and expense of being caught up in someone else's recreation. It's a bad place to put someone else in, and rather selfish to tell someone, "If you can't risk an arrest as a bystander, don't play disc golf."

He could be a convicted felon that's served his time and paid his debt and is now looking for a new activity that doesn't revolve around a bar. Being on that card could be a violation of his probation or parole.

Disc golf isn't a viable activity for such a person. Hence our sport excludes those that can't be caught in the vicinity of our vices.

I just don't see convicted felons getting jobs with the FAA that often.

I just don't see convicted felons getting jobs with the FAA that often.

....nor keeping them.

The reason they don't get those jobs is because they are a "flight" risk!

Its not an irresponsible statement, it is merely a statement, you interpret as irresponsible, because you don't agree with my statement. I stand by what I said. And agree with the scenario that you posted as well.

Jack,

I agree with you about what a person does on their time, but being a safety manager we have to be proactive. Drug testing someone after the fact doesn't save our company the thousands and millions of dollars that they have now cost us. Plus it doesn't make the person that got injured feel any better. When a person is put into the position that could mean life or death, they should be tested on a regular basis. You'll find that companies that have such risks do random drug testing. They don't catch everyone but it does act as a detractor. I hate to beat on this drum, but I don't see why it's so accepted in our sport. It offends me when I tell players that I do mind if they smoke. I shouldn't have to be the bad guy on a public course where it's clearly againist the law. If it were up to me, it would be legal, but it's not. So disc golfers need to respect other peoples wishes and do it on their time away from public courses. You being in HR should know the risk of intoxicated employees. The BS belief that weed is not as bad as alcohol is a load of crap. It's been proven to hinder a person's response time.

Now that I'm off my soap box, not hiring a person because of a perception is wrong. But in reality would you hire someone that might be a risk to your job? Guilt by association can be a problem, but it's there for a reason. I get it all the time when I tell people I play disc golf!

i agree with rhett that we should be more accepting of convicted felons.

I just don't see convicted felons getting jobs with the FAA that often.

Now you're just being silly because you don't want to acknowledge my point.

Everyone here knows I was talking about playing in a group with pot smokers during a PDGA sanctioned tournament.

Now, Rhett, are you talking about being with a group of partakers at a disc golf course, or are you talking about what goes on during a PDGA tournament round, because they surely both cannot occur at the same time and place!

Now, Rhett, are you talking about being with a group of partakers at a disc golf course, or are you talking about what goes on during a PDGA tournament round, because they surely both cannot occur at the same time and place!

Here's the very real difference, Bill: you can walk away from the group in a casual round. :)

Here's the very real difference, Bill: you can walk away from the group in a casual round. :)


...and you can have the PDGA card disqualified than suspended, or you can call the police. You can inform them your a concerned citizen that is watching people smoke dope in the park. Being in Cali, they will probably just hang up on you, but maybe they will show up, bust these dirty degenerates and youd have some factual backing for your complaining.

Not that I pay much attention, but it seems like that is what several people on here do. You whine and cry about dopesmokers and how its keeping the sport down. Thats a joke. Thats exactly why there isnt 5000 posts alongside yours backing up all your complaints. Maybe you should retire or buy enough land for your own course, then you would never have to deal with it. Run your own events and have people stoned to death if they are caught using reefer.

Ha, I said stoned to death.


Die Stoners! You are keeping us from TV and possibly millions of dollars I will never see! The PDGA needs a new skyscraper in Dubai. The plans are to build 3 courses on the roof 2000 feet above the ground. We need that TV revenue to start making things like this a reality. Cant just get by on land nobody ever goes to or a 80k dollar website that looks more like a crappy pop-up I cant block.

The number of discgolfers who smoke is greater in lower ranks and during casual rounds than at the top level of the sport.

That's b/c there are more players in the lower ranks. If compared side by side, the % could easily be healthier in the division with less players.

I was wanting to rant so this gives me the forum. I will admit, I use to smoke, and I gave it up. The groups of people that I play with that still smoke, a large percentage of them have trouble keeping their jobs. I know, if big brother would just stop breathing down their necks they wouldn't have that problem, none the less it is true. This alone would be a good reason to quit, but it is not. A lot of the people I know that do smoke and keep their jobs are in a serious situation if for some reason they have an accident, because a lot of jobs are requiring a UA. So you can keep your job, it is a good job and because of an accident, that might not even be your fault, you have a good chance of losing your job. Just doesn't make sense to me.

But enough of that, let's talk about smoking while playing disc golf. I am amazed at how strictly a group of players, playing in mini's, can hold to the rules, except when it comes to smoking. Why is it that we hold our rules so sacrosanct, except for that one? Can anyone answer that? I have seen players sit down, smoke a bowl and then call someone for a foot fault 5 minutes later. It is amazing!

I remember smoking while playing, for some people, it calms them down. This is CHEATING. There is no arguing that point. If you use pot to calm you down during a round, then you are gaining an unfair advantage over someone that it not smoking. Okay, so maybe you have a real problem with anxiety. You may need to see a doctor. I know pills are evil, herb is good. Already heard that one. Just one point, if you are taking medication under a doctor's supervision, and being proactive about the medication you are taking, then pills in and of themselves are not evil. In the state of Cali, if a doctor, prescribes you medical pot, then it is assumed the doctor is following his oath to help you and following up to make sure you are being medically treated. Of course after seeing "Super High Me" I am not 100% sure that is going on, but if a doctor prescribes it and you smoke it within the guidelines, then, as with pills, it is assumed that your issues are not "normal" and you need the medication.

So If you are not smoking pot because it calms you, then why break the rule? I had one player tell me that he played better high.... cheating. I had another player tell me he just enjoys watching the disc fly and pot accentuates that feeling. Okay, I also like watching the flight of discs and I don't need pot to feel that. I guess it could be said that it is more intense, but the fact is, smoking during a round is against the rules and if you get high to play better it is cheating. And if your response it that it is not that big a deal, then go without and see how big a deal it really is.

Oh well, blowing in the wind.

I suspect some of the reasons for enforcing other rules, not this one, are

(1) They don't see it as affecting the competition (or, as you say, cheating).

(2) They really really want to smoke, so they'll rationalize it.

I have been on both sides of this issue as a former user, (haven't for quite some time) most people who use wanna use and don't care how it affects anyone else.

Don't like it?

Too bad, this is sad but true. Doesn't bother me much either way personally, I find that most people play worse after getting high, I know I did for sure, I could not putt worth a **** when I was high.

I don't blame anyone for objecting if someone does it in a tourney or casual play either, if it bothered me I would speak up.

Does it cast DG in a bad way? I would have to say yes.

But, there really is not a way to stop it is there?

The people I play with casually that do it know if anything happens they are not dragging me down with em, they are on their own, it's not my stuff.

Hey J-Miller how ya doin buddy!!!

We missed ya at the ORO.

Scott

We play a sport that was started by hippies. You could argue it wasn't, but you would be in denial. I've seen the pictures and read the stories of early disc golf. In '81 my buddies and I started playing in Huntington Beach and bought Midnight Flyers out of the trunk of a car (I wish I could write a VW van) owned by a guy who looked like he could be a hippie. I have a Steady Ed trading card and he sure looks like an old hippie. Inhabitants of the counter-culture refined the game that I played as a kid. "Let's see who can get it in the back of Mr. Kelley's pick up truck."

Now it's the 21st century and people perceive disc golf as "stoner golf" or "hippie golf." Is it any wonder how this happened? This is the image it has, for better or for worse. It is ironic that disc golf was born out of the generation which tried to break down society's barriers and point out the hypocrisy of prejudices based on appearances and lifestyle choices, but now must try to polish up the image so the "establishment" will accept it for a "real sport."

For those who must protect their image when applying for a job or seeking approval for something that will enhance their life, I can understand how admitting to having a disc golf habit might not be prudent, and by disc golf habit I mean just that. No double meaning. For all the progress made by our society, there are still those people who will make judgments based on generalization. It is better sometimes to facilitate things through omission, rather than put it out there for all to see. My dad called this "playing the game." This works on a small intimate scale. I can make my image this or that because I can control to some extent what people will perceive. On a bigger scale - not so easy.

It seems the PDGA would like to buff the image of disc golf to a nice shiny luster so it can more resemble its ancient predecessor, and by doing so, attract the acceptance of the "establishment." While it might seem like the right path, I believe they're choosing the wrong paradigm. This sport is what it is. It is played by a diverse and rebellious crowd. Its biggest supporters are the players. Not the sponsors. Certainly not TV. Not mainstream America, shoot! I'll bet half of the nation doesn't know the game exists.
Exposing more people to the game is what the PDGA is doing right; trying to put the round pegs in the square holes is what they're doing wrong.

Embrace the character of the sport. Skateboarding didn't dwell on the negatives and try to put a collared shirt on Tony Hawk. Warren Miller didn't care if a guy was naked carving down a mountain side, probably would've encouraged it. Does Shawn blaze before he snow boards? Who cares! All the hand wringing about the image of disc golf is lost on me, but then I don't care if they grow the sport or golfers sport the "growth." I care about making disc golf better for those who play it. I would love to watch it on TV, but not if that meant I would have to make a tee time and pay for it. Yeah there some yahoos that need to be more responsible on the course and I encourage them to be more discrete and pack their cans out. My perception of disc golfers is the majority are a hardy crew with their hearts in the right place. Some just need a little direction.

Will the real stoner sport stand up for itself? That's my question.

Nice essay there, Tim-may!!