OTB Open tournament director Sean Jack overlooks the action in Stockton. Photo: Kevin Huver / DGPT

(This is the latest in a series coming to PDGA.com spotlighting the tournament directors of the PDGA Elite Series and beyond)

Tournament directors are often the unsung heroes of disc golf competition. They spend their time preparing and hosting disc golf tournaments all over the world.

Get to know Sean Jack, PDGA No. 36762, the tournament director for the Disc Golf Pro Tour - OTB Open presented by MVP Discs Sports and the VP of Partnerships for the DGPT.

We caught up with Sean to get to know his story in disc golf and what advice he has for tournament directors:

PDGA: How were you introduced to disc golf?

SJ: While trail running at Borderland State Park in 2008, I heard the inimitable sound of the chains. The addiction took over immediately.

Tell us about the first event that you organized. What made you want to serve as a tournament director? What did you learn?

The first PDGA event was the 2012 San Francisco Safari. The event was in jeopardy of being canceled, and I didn't want to see that happen. I learned always to say yes when someone asks if you need help.

What is the top priority for a TD? What is your top goal as a TD?

Build relationships with people and organizations that bring resources to the event. Identify individuals that fill gaps where you lack expertise. My business partner and co-TD, Shawn Mercy, is an engineer/master project manager and has an incredible eye for small details. And be sure to thank people genuinely often.

What is one piece of advice for someone that is hosting their first event?

Shadow someone first — be an assistant TD.

What is one thing that TDs often overlook?

Trying to do everything themselves.

Tell us about the history of the OTB Open. How has it grown over the years?

It started in San Francisco as the SFO. We moved it to Stockton in 2021 out of fear of cancellation from CV19. We found the city, local travel council, and community all coalesced to bring a fantastic experience to players and fans.

What makes the OTB Open unique?

We take a kickass team that cares about the small and the big things. As California as this may sound, I think we have a really cool vibe.

What is your favorite hole at Swenson Park DGC?

Hole 10 — it's a potential double water carry, gorgeous, and treacherous.

What can fans expect from the 2022 OTB Open?

We aim to provide the best spectator experience on tour. This year, we've invested $40k+ to further that effort. With the help of some fantastic golf, we're going to put on one hell of a show!