Why host a disc golf tournament at home
Hosting a disc golf tournament might sound intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. You don’t need a full 18-hole course or expensive gear to create a fun, memorable day with friends and family. With just one disc golf basket, a few discs, and a little creativity, you can run a great tournament right in your backyard or at a local park.
If you have a RAD Roadie basket, a few disc golf starter sets, and a good group of players, you already have the essentials. Add music, snacks, and a simple course layout, and you’re ready to go.
This guide walks you through how to host your first disc golf tournament using one basket, along with tips to keep it fun, flexible, and beginner-friendly.
Step 1: Set the vibe with music, snacks, and a scoreboard 
Creating the right atmosphere can transform a casual game into a real event.
Music
Pick a playlist that fits your group’s energy. Keep the volume low enough for easy conversation. A portable Bluetooth speaker works well. Acoustic hits, indie pop, or laid-back classics are good choices.
Snacks
Serve easy-to-grab foods like trail mix, fruit, granola bars, or even disc-shaped cookies. Make sure there’s plenty of water available, whether in bottles or coolers.
Scoreboard
Use a whiteboard, chalkboard, or printed bracket to keep track of scores. If you prefer digital, several scoring apps can help.
You can also download a free printable scorecard at FlyingDiscStore.com/scorecard
Step 2: Make one basket work like a full course
You don’t need multiple baskets to create variety and challenge.
Rotating tee pads
Mark different throwing spots around your RAD Roadie basket using cones, chalk, or ropes. Change distances and angles to simulate new holes.
Alternate game formats
Keep things interesting with different formats such as:
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Around-the-World Putting: Putts from all sides of the basket
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Obstacle Course: Use trees, chairs, or cones to shape your throws
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Mini Loops: Create three-hole rounds with different tee pad locations
Why it works
Changing layouts adds challenge for experienced players while keeping it manageable for beginners. It helps recreate the feel of a multi-hole course without needing a large space.
The RAD Roadie is especially suited for this. It’s lightweight, easy to move, and sets up quickly in any space.
Shop the RAD Roadie at Flying Disc Store.
Step 3: Expand when you’re ready
Once you’ve hosted your first tournament, you may want to add more features or equipment.
Add more baskets
If you enjoyed playing with one basket, consider adding a second or third. The RAD Ace and RAD Cube are great options to build a short course or a looped layout.
Rotate layouts regularly
Even with just one or two baskets, moving tee pads or switching hole directions every few rounds keeps the event fresh. You can even let players vote on the next layout.
Try themed rounds
Creative themes make your event even more memorable. Ideas include:
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Trick shot only
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Left-hand throws
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Mini disc rounds
These ideas are easy to set up and require no extra gear. Just adjust based on your space and the interest of your group.
Bonus tips for first-time hosts
Test the layout
Walk the full course ahead of time. Try each throw and check for safety hazards or tricky angles.
Keep it casual
Set the tone early. Let players know the goal is to have fun, not just to compete. This makes the day more relaxed and welcoming.
Offer fun prizes
Give out awards for categories like Best Spirit, Longest Putt, or Most Creative Trick Shot. It’s an easy way to recognize effort and keep things lighthearted.
What you’ll need to get started 
Use this checklist to plan your first backyard tournament:
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One RAD Roadie disc golf basket
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Cones or markers for tee pad locations
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Bluetooth speaker and music playlist
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Finger foods and drinks
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Whiteboard, printed bracket, or scorecards
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Disc golf bag for organizing discs
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Basic first aid kit
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Good attitude and a sense of fun
Free resources to help you plan
Make your event easier with downloadable materials from the Flying Disc Store:
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Printable Scorecards: FlyingDiscStore.com/scorecard
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Course Layout Templates: FlyingDiscStore.com/layout
Why This Blog Matters: A Disc Golf Perspective
From a disc golf development standpoint, hosting small-scale tournaments is more than just casual fun—it helps grow the sport. The Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) highlights that grassroots events are critical in expanding awareness, encouraging new players, and building stronger communities. In fact, Australia has seen steady growth in local clubs (source: Australian Disc Golf Clubs), with pop-up tournaments often serving as the first step for beginners before joining formal leagues.
For players, understanding how to maximize a single disc golf basket or a simple starter set demonstrates that accessibility is key—anyone can get involved without a major upfront investment. This makes disc golf one of the fastest-growing sports worldwide, with more than 14,000 courses globally (source: UDisc Blog).
By reading this guide, disc golf enthusiasts can see how easy it is to transform their backyard or local park into a fun, welcoming space that introduces more people to the sport. For families, schools, or community groups, resources like school packs or portable baskets make disc golf an inclusive and lasting activity.
FAQs
Can I really host a tournament with just one basket?
Yes. With rotating tee pads and a few creative layouts, one basket is all you need for a full event.
What’s the best basket for casual or backyard events?
The RAD Roadie is a top choice. It’s portable, durable, and easy to set up anywhere.
How do I make it fun for all skill levels?
Use flexible formats and keep things low-pressure. Focus on group enjoyment over strict competition.
Ready to start your tournament?
Get everything you need to host your first disc golf tournament at Flying Disc Store Australia. Start small and grow your setup over time—whether it’s your backyard or your local park, you can create a great experience for every player.
