2024 PDGA State & Provincial Coordinator Candidates

Last updated: Friday, June 21, 2024 - 16:06

Each year, roughly half the State and Provincial Coordinator positions are up for election. Below are the candidates for the positions up for election in 2024 and their statements. Terms for these positions will run for two (2) years, from September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2026.

Alaska (1 Candidate)

Patrick Miller #55433

Professional Experience: I have worked for and volunteered with Kachemak Heritage Land Trust, The Minnesota Land Trust, Kachemak Bay State Parks, Center for Alaska Coastal Studies, and the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve – all environmentally-focused non-profits. I was treasurer of our graduate school ultimate frisbee team and organized an annual tournament that would attract over 30 different club teams from across New England. I currently sit on the Kachemak Bay State Parks Advisory Committee and am Commissioner of the Homer Softball Association.

Disc Golf Experience: I want to be your Alaska PDGA state coordinator for the following reasons. First, I’ve directed dozens of tournaments around the great state of Alaska. I care about disc golf enough to put my time and energy into tournaments, and I want to see it grow at the local and state level. Second, I’ve played in dozens of tournaments across Alaska and the lower 48. I support local clubs when traveling and want to see every city/region have a self-sustaining group to handle the local disc golf need. Finally, I have attended numerous work parties, meetings, and course design sessions across the state. I want to see every course looking its best. The common thread in all of these reasons is a design to see disc golf become as popular as possible in Alaska. This will be achieved by working with local/regional sponsors, hosting tournaments big and small, and developing more courses wherever possible to get new players into the game. I would love to continue to represent Alaska as your PDGA State Coordinator, and I appreciate your consideration!

Additional Candidate Information: I have successfully directed dozens of PDGA-sanctioned disc golf tournaments all over the state of Alaska. I co-manage a weekly disc golf league in Homer, Alaska, that has been continuously running for more than 3 years. I have attended and played in dozens of PDGA-sanctioned disc golf tournaments all over Alaska and the rest of the country. I have facilitated and attended numerous local and statewide disc golf course park clean-ups, restructuring meetings, and course design sessions. I have maintained a good working relationship with local and statewide park liaisons to ensure smooth operations throughout the disc golf season. And I’ve cashed an ace pot or two. I would be thrilled to continue to represent Alaska as the PDGA State Coordinator!

Arizona (1 candidate)

Pete Ulibarri #41750

Professional Experience

Residential home contractor 1997-2016
Family restaurant management 2008-2012
Arizona PDGA state Coordinator 2022-2024
Board of directors for the Ulibarri Leadership Foundation (Current)
Professional disc golfer 2011- Present
Disc golf form coach for the Ulibarri Leadership Institute (Current)
Disc golf course design and consultation (Current)

Disc Golf Experience

I took up the game of disc golf in the fall of 2009.
2011 I finished in 10th place at Am Worlds in Rochester, NY
2011 I turned professional at the Full Throttle challenge in Solitude, UT
Course steward for Show low disc golf course (2009-2015)
Course steward for Red mountain disc golf courses (2015 to the present)
Designed 4 complete disc golf courses including Wilderness ranch dgc which is now the #1 rated course in Arizona, and re-designed two others.
Professional Disc golf form coach for the Ulibarri Leadership Institute.

British Columbia (1 candidate)

Kevin King #68640

Professional Experience: I worked multiple positions in retail banking for 7 years before moving to Elkford where I continued my career in finance performing accounting for the local municipality. My experience in local government helped me to understand the administrative aspects of getting disc golf courses installed by working with the finance/public works/recreation departments and seeking out and securing funding through local and regional grant programs.

I am currently the Director of the National Amateur Disc Golf Tour (NADGT) in Canada, overseeing dozens of amateur-focused events nationwide.

Disc Golf Experience: I started playing disc golf in 2001 at Mundy Park and became a PDGA member in 2015. While attending the UofL, I founded Canada's first collegiate disc golf team in 2013. I have also served on multiple boards, namely the Lethbridge club, the BCDS, and I founded the East Kootenay DGC where I have served as Treasurer for over a decade.

In my 5th year as Director of the NADGT Canada, I currently work with clubs and tournament directors across the country to bring grassroots events to their area and provide them with all of the back-end support to make their events as successful as possible. I provide training for new TDs and work with them to give them the confidence, experience, and information that they need to become contributing TDs in their communities. I also work with many Canadian disc golf companies nation-wide in an effort to showcase their products in our players packs. Through a partnership with the PDGA Canada that I put together, dozens of Canadian disc golfers have received complimentary PDGA memberships by participating in NADGT Canada events over the years.

Additional Candidate Information: https://www.pdga.com/player/68640/stats/2015

California (South) (1 candidate)

Shaun Watkins #122411

Professional Experience

Electronics Technician, US Navy, 1997-2004
Construction Electrician, 2005-2012
Welder/Fabricator for IATSE Local 122, 2015-2019
Currently "semi-retired"

Disc Golf Experience

I started playing in June of 2017 after my cousin introduced me to the game.
I started volunteering any chance I could by 2018.
2019 I started to work with Allen Risley on the Challenge at Goat Hill.
In 2020 we hosted a Silver Series event at Goat Hill, which is where Joe Rotan scouted me.
In October of that year I was asked to join the 6 man team that runs the logistics and security at USDGC, where I continue in that capacity currently.
The following February I was asked to participate at the Las Vegas Challenge. I've been a Lead there for the past 3 years. Following that first trip, I was presented with my Innova wings as an Ambassador.
This year I was asked back to Rock Hill to help facilitate the running of the College Disc Golf World Championship. We moved 786 students through 5 courses spanning 4 days.
Most recently I helped get approval for a small 9 hole course in an underserved part of San Diego. It was my first course design.

Connecticut (2 candidates)

Patrick DiCaprio #58042

Professional Experience: I graduated college in 2005 and immediately took a job in the healthcare informatics sector. I spent the first 14.5 years of my working career doing customer support for hospital imaging systems before taking a role as a Technical Account Manager for Philips Healthcare in early 2020. I now analyze and optimize those same hospital imaging systems I used to support, helping customers improve their work flow and make things run more efficiently.

I was also a swim coach for over 20 years, spending 11 years as the head swim coach for Seymour High School. During those 11 years I have served as the coach chairperson for the Naugatuck Valley League, coordinating and serving as the meet director for the yearly championship meet consisting of over 200 entrants.

Disc Golf Experience: I started playing disc golf in early 2012 and quickly became hooked. I played my first tournament that spring, and have been a PDGA member since 2013. I quickly moved from playing events to helping run events and becoming the tournament director for events. At this point, I have assisted or run more tournaments than I have participated in as a player, those events ranging from entry level C Tiers all the way up to multiple A Tiers within the state. I take great pride in the fact that I put on a quality event, and have a good history of doing so. Seeing players come and compete while having a great experience has always been my number one goal, and at the end of the day, I find doing so quite rewarding.

I am currently in my 4th year as Connecticut PDGA State Coordinator. I have greatly enjoyed assisting and educating other Tournament Directors around the state. Right from the start, I have tried to be a resource for the state and much more than just someone that coordinates the tournament schedule. Last fall, I also joined the PDGA Competition Committee where I get to use my experiences as a TD to help vet potential changes to the Competition Manual.

Sherry Boyd #193274

Professional Experience: I have been serving the public my entire career, starting in the '80s in a leadership role at various Disney Stores, then for a stretch of time in sales/marketing positions in the corporate world, most recently in the data-storage business. Simultaneously, for the past 15 years, I have acted as a social media consultant and helped in various capacities promoting triathlon/endurance events and small businesses. Since 2020, after prioritizing disc golf and recognizing the shortage of 9 hole/pocket courses in CT, my partner and I have been offering procurement and graphic design services to municipalities and non-profits looking to build disc golf courses, along with community input/our recommendations for course design.

Disc Golf Experience: Still not as good a player as I hoped to be after playing steadily for 4 years, I am loving every minute of my time out there with our disc golf family. I re-discovered disc golf very early on in the pandemic when I could no longer participate in the many other sports I had been playing, and started playing disc golf at least 5 days a week. Early on I recognized that women, masters, juniors and beginners were under-served from an event perspective, so I decided to start a league and create "Disc Golf Zen" to run various events for those demographics. Our league started as a best-disc mixed doubles league, with a goal of getting more women out playing, and then evolved to a BYOP Best-Disc Doubles League with the intention of getting as many players as possible out. Our goal to grow the sport inclusively through Disc Golf Zen has included creating and directing two annual Women's events (Find Your Force Doubles and Find Your Force Singles), three annual Masters events (Throw Masters Triad), one annual junior event (Northeast Junior Classic), many beginner events to support Pathfinders Camp for Children with Diabetes (May The Course Be With You and All About Birdies), and two inclusivity events new in 2024, supporting three LGBTQIA+ organizations, which were so well received that they will recur annually (Iceberg For Inclusivity and Throw A Rainbow).

Additional Candidate Information

District of Columbia (1 candidate)

Bob Cannon #26532

Professional Experience: 33 years with the Department of Defense in Dahlgren Virginia

Disc Golf Experience: I began playing disc golf in 2004. In 2005, I became a member of the Spotsy Disc Golf Club (SDGC) and entered my first tournament. In January 2006, I became a PDGA official and have served as President of SDGC since 2007. Beginning in 2007, I have been the tournament director for the Loriella Challenge. I played in the Amateur Worlds in 2007 and 2008. In 2009, I started playing in the Professional Masters Divsion. I have played the Pro Worlds in the Masters Division in Charlotte, Pittsburgh, Vermont and Tennessee. I finished 7th in Pro Masters 50+ Division in Vermont and 13th in Pro Masters 50+ Division in Tennesse. I co-hosted a Women's Global Event in 2016, 2018 and 2021. I was a member of the 2019 United State's Women's Disc Golf Championships Organizing Committee which was held in Spotsylvania. I have been a member of the Innova Ambassador Team since 2015. I am a current board member of the Virginia frisbee Hall of Fame. Assitant Director of DGPT Silver Series - Lake Marshall Open in 2022.

Additional Candidate Information: Since discovering disc golf in 2004, I have committed to being involved in maintaining our local courses, public and private, and promoting the sport of disc golf. I have a good rapport with many of the Tournament Directors in Virginia and strive to work closely with clubs and TDs in our state and surrounding localities. I have assisted with the Virginia Women's Disc Golf Series over the past several years. If re-elected I will continue to represent the PDGA in a professional manner and continue to encourage others to join our organization.

Florida (1 candidate)

Cameron Harbachuk #52085

Professional Experience: My background is in corporate finance, management and training & development. I have worked as an analyst in the retirement industry in the past and currently am a Director at one of the larger transportation/logistics companies in the United States working in the finance sector. Additionally, I am the Executive Director for a non-profit organization that focuses on event promotion for charities. My passion is in process and people development and I strive to examine processes to try and achieve maximum efficiency and productivity.

Disc Golf Experience

Began playing disc golf in July 2008.
PDGA Member since 2012 (#52085)
99 Total events played.
Founder and Event Director of annual Gulf Coast Charity Open -Donated $42k to charity to date.
40 - Time Tournament Director | 7,528 Total Players | 188 Average Players Per Event
PDGA Florida State Coordinator 2018 - Current

Hawaii (1 candidate)

Alan Koons #31429

Professional Experience: I've been in Technical Recruitment for close to 15 years, working with all levels within various industries and organizations. This partnership with hiring managers, C-Level, hourly and salary employees has given me great experience and has translated well to working with many different personalities and individuals within the disc golf community.

Disc Golf Experience: I've been playing disc golf for about 20 years now and have been competing in PDGA events for about 18 of those years. I started playing in Buffalo, NY around 2004 and had been involved in multiple local clubs (NRDG and WNYDGC) running and participating in events. I have been TD'ing events for about 14 years, both sanctioned and non-sanctioned and have also been sponsored by Prodigy Disc since December 2018. I've led projects in course design, redesign and installing in both NY and currently in Hawaii. I've taught disc golf classes at a preparatory high school here in Hawaii and have donated discs and baskets to another charter school as well. I currently run the "Kona Disc Golf" Facebook page in Kailua-Kona, HI and run a handicap league along various sanctioned events throughout the year.

I love the sport and am always trying to encourage others to play and get more involved. It's been my pleasure being the PDGA State Coordinator for the state of Hawaii the last 4 years and I'm eager to continue by running for another term! I strive to be the first point of contact in providing information and/or support to other players and tournament directors statewide. I've met some of the best people I know through playing disc golf, and I hope to meet many more along the way, while also providing knowledge, learning more myself and supporting the growth of disc golf.

Additional Candidate Information

Illinois (1 candidate)

Mike Krupicka #28238

Professional Experience: I have worked in the embedded software industry for over 30 years as a software engineer.

Disc Golf Experience: Started playing in 2001. I have been a PDGA member since 2005 and became a Certified Official in 2006. After volunteering at events for a couple of years, I began running events as a TD in 2008. I have now run over 100 events from Leagues to A-tiers. Over the years I have been active locally in the Discontinuum and Fox Valley Metro Disc Golf Clubs. I have served on the Rules Committee since 2019 and am currently the chair of the Rules Committee.

I, along with other leaders in the state, have established the Illinois Disc Golf Hall of Fame in 2019. We intend to continue to recognize those who have made an impact on disc golf in Illinois.

Additional Candidate Information: I have served as the state coordinator since 2012. As state coordinator I aim to be a resource and first point of contact with the PDGA for tournament directors and players in our state. Illinois has a very active disc golf scene with tournaments almost every weekend, which makes scheduling events each year a challenge. I have strived for a schedule that provides opportunities for events to be able to succeed.

I will continue to promote the PDGA and believe I can continue to provide the leadership needed for our state.

Iowa (1 candidate)

Andy Hamer #35809

Professional Experience: I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Geography from the University of Iowa. I am the Assistant GIS Specialist for the City of Iowa City in the Water Division and have been in that department for over 6 years. Our department works with many sectors of the city, which requires communication and listening aptitude when collaborating with city employees in a variety of departments. My career requires me to be detail-oriented and have the ability to solve problems without supervision. These attributes would be an asset if I were to be re-elected to serve as the State Coordinator of Iowa for second term.

Disc Golf Experience: I have been the PDGA Coordinator for the state of Iowa for the last 2 years. I have served as a tournament director of more than 50 PDGA B-Tier and C-Tier sanctioned tournaments and the assistant tournament director at 3 A-Tier tournaments in the area.

I have competed in more than 100 tournaments in the last fifteen years. Those tournaments have included Majors, A-Tiers, B-Tiers and C-Tiers. My experience traveling around the country and meeting new players and tournament directors has only increased my passion for the sport of disc golf. The people involved in this sport are the ones that make disc golf special.

I have been working on the courses in the area for the last 16 years. We built a new course in 2017 which has quickly become a favorite course among players in the state. I take pride in working on the local courses. The reward is hearing compliments on the courses from disc golfers.

I am the Vice-President of the Iowa River Disc Golf Club. We work together with our local entities to maintain and improve our disc golf courses. I have excellent relationships with the local Forestry Department, Parks and Recreations and Army Corps of Engineers. I have regular meetings with staff members of those organizations on what needs to be done at the local courses.

Additional Candidate Information: My name is Andy Hamer and I have lived in the state of Iowa my entire life. I have been in the Iowa City area since 1986. I first played disc golf in 1990 while raising our children and then became more interested in the sport in 2001. I started competing in tournaments in 2006 which led to my wife and I starting Vicious Circle Disc Golf in 2009. We wanted to promote the sport in our area and to showcase the fabulous courses we have in our region of the state.

I am the Communications Director on the Board of Directors for the Friends of Coralville Lake. We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that works with local entities to ensure that the Coralville Lake area will be able to provide many different recreational opportunities, including disc golf, for years to come. I keep our website up to date and make posts on our social media outlets. We need to get our message out to the public on the urgency of the situation at Coralville Lake and I am honored to be a part of this organization that is working on a long-term solution.

If I am fortunate enough to be re-elected as the State Coordinator of Iowa, I will do my best to assist and support the tournament directors in our area. I will continue to grow disc golf in any possible fashion that represents the state of Iowa and the sport well. My experience as a disc golf competitor and tournament director in the state of Iowa gives me a unique set of skills to fulfill the duties of State Coordinator. I have good relationships with the tournament directors in the state of Iowa which will be an asset when it is time to organize tournament schedules each year. I have kept the state tournament website up to date over the last 2 years in a prompt and timely matter and have been told that my communication whenever a scheduling conflict has arisen has been appreciated by the tournament directors in the state of Iowa. The compliments and encouragement I have received over the last 2 years have made me more determined to serve the disc golf community if I am fortunate enough to be elected to a second term as the PDGA Coordinator for the state of Iowa.

Kentucky (1 candidate)

Nicholas Baker #147759

Professional Experience: I’m A club leader and trainer for a few local player. Also been a manager at local businesses…club leader and a disc golf sponsor player with over 4 years experience in events

Disc Golf Experience: Since becoming a pdga member I have built whitesville disc golf course and ran several tournaments with success.I also run a weekly tags for my club members play about 15 events a year.I bring in new players to the sport as much asap and always eager to help with courses maintenance and other learning the tournament director when they need help .I’m also a lone star sponsored player for two years …

Maine (1 candidate)

Dan Stefanilo #79846

Professional Experience: Hi My name is Dan Stefanilo and I am the current PDGA State Coordinator for the lovely state of Maine. Over the past four years I have made it my goal to make the PDGA experience for Mainers an A+. As the PDGA rep for Maine, I have worked closely with your Tournament Directors around the state in creating a schedule that fits the needs of players, course owners, and TD's. Deeper than that, I have worked with other State Coordinators from our region in making sure that the larger events around New England can be attended by all. I sent an anonymous survey to the Maine Disc Golf Scene asking for feedback on what I could do to make their experience better. I was able to take that valuable information and create a Facebook website called "Maine PDGA Events and Info". This webpage has made it easy for the social media world to keep track of event dates, pre-registration dates, links to tournaments, rules changes, and other valuable information.

If elected to serve this amazing community again, I promise to continue to work hard and make the PDGA experience in the state top notch.

I will continue to have open and honest communication.
I will continue to build a schedule that allows for Mainers and surrounding players to have choices based on tier, travel, and prior successes.
I will continue to build the PDGA info website to create traffic and discussion around Maine PDGA.
I will serve with the interest of Maine disc golfers and the PDGA as my top priority.

Disc Golf Experience: I have been playing disc golf since 2004. Although I am not the best disc golfer, I feel like I can make a greater impact on the sport by being an ambassador. I love playing PDGA tournaments because of the butterflies I get when I compete.

I love being a TD. There is nothing better than getting compliments that you made someone else's disc golf experience amazing. I strive to give players that experience. I run double digit PDGA tournaments every year, and love every minute of it. Our Circle 1 Flex Series is really taking off this year.

I have some very exciting goals for the next 3-5 years and I'm really looking forward to getting them off the ground.

Maryland (2 candidates)

Kevin Gleason #19195

Professional Experience

KnS Painting owner 14 years
Latitude 64 Team Captain 2020 – 2022
Maryland PDGA State Coordinator 2020 – 2024

Disc Golf Experience

Introduced to disc golf at Camp Cheerio 1987
PDGA member 24 years
Career Events 419
Career Wins 116
Team USA WFDF Croatia 2022
Team USA WFDF Australia 2024

Adam Neal #93196

Professional Experience: I served in various roles as a board member with the Southern Maryland Disc Golf Association from 2019 to 2023 (Secretary, County Liaison, and Chairperson). I graduated from the University of Richmond School of Law in 2011. I run two real estate brokerages in Maryland. I am also a licensed real estate agent in Virginia.

Disc Golf Experience: I have directed dozens of PDGA-sanctioned disc golf tournaments in Maryland. I have assisted for many additional events. I have participated in over 150 PDGA-sanctioned events. I have facilitated and attended course work days. I have assisted in designing three disc golf courses. I manage a Facebook page (MA5 Disc golf) geared toward newer and improving players.

Additional Candidate Information: The reasons I am running for state coordinator are: 1)I would like to continue to provide opportunities to introduce the public to the game of disc golf. 2)I would like to host an on-line calendar of events as they are brought to my attention, so players can plan for events, even if they are not yet published for sign ups. 3)I have grown to love the sport and want to continue to share that passion with others.

youtube.com/video/eohxGCQFVp8/

Massachusetts (1 candidate)

Bob Kulchuk #54607

Professional Experience: I have over 30 years of accounting and finance experience in a multitude of industries and agencies including 23 years as a CFO or most-senior finance professional role.

Disc Golf Experience: Like many of us, my disc throwing roots began about 30 years ago with Ultimate Disc. I played competitively on the local level in hat and club leagues before hanging up my cleats in 2014. As far as disc golf is concerned, I began playing in 2012. I play in both the MP50, MP40 or MPO divisions. I have stepped up my competing in recent years playing in over 400 PDGA sanctioned events and unsanctioned events since I started. I have attended many majors and A-tiers and travel frequently for larger tournaments.

In addition to playing in many tournaments, I have also taken on the Tournament Director role and have hosted 20+ tournaments including one of the largest and longest running B-Tiers in New England which we’ve kicked up to an A-tier for 2024.

Additional Candidate Information: I currently hold and am running for re-election to the Massachusetts State Coordinator position.

Disc Golf has given me so much and after retiring from the Board of the Ultimate Disc Alliance (BUDA) in 2015, I wanted a way to give back what I could to the sport and community that I had come to love so much.

With more than nine years of experience in this role now, I am looking forward to continuing to assist local TDs and players by representing the PDGA in 2024/25 and beyond.

Michigan (1 candidate)

John “Nacho” Norkowski #36436

Professional Experience

10 years experience as a convenience store manager
10 years experience as a manager in a carpet cleaning business
2 years experience in inventory management and sales in the cannabis industry

Disc Golf Experience

Active Tournament Director for 13 years
Leader of Mount Pleasant Disc Golf
216 events played, 11 wins
60 events as TD, helped/assistant for many more
TD of 2017 Pro Master World Championship
TD of 2020 Discraft Great Lakes Open
Asst. TD of 2021-2023 Discraft Great Lakes Open
Asst. TD of 2024 PDGA Amateur World Championship
Assistant to Mark Stephens during his tenure as State Coordinator
Active member and Berth Coordinator of the Michigan Disc Golf Organization

Additional Candidate Information: I would love to be your PDGA State Coordinator for Michigan! My name is John "Nacho" Norkowski I'm 42 years old and I got hooked on disc golf while in college. I evolved from a player to a local club leader/TD/volunteer to a MDGO leader because of the amazing community of people I found in disc golf and the happiness and purpose they give me.

I have decided to run for Michigan State Coordinator because of the love I have for Michigan disc golf and our amazing community of disc golfers. I am passionate about Michigan Disc Golf, and would like to continue our growth and success that our previous state coordinators have established. Our state has amazing courses, amazing events, and an amazing community I will strive to serve Michigan to the best of my abilities. I would be proud to represent our state, our tournament directors, and our golfers as your next state coordinator.

Mississippi (1 candidate)

Daymon Parker #141584

Professional Experience: I am currently a terminal manager for a logistics company in Hattiesburg, MS and have been here for 6 years. I have had experience as an OTR truck driver, Oil and Gas Industry, and customer service jobs throughout my professional carrer. The different jobs, experience, and tools that have been aquired along the way has given me a unique outlook on life. I hold customer service, organization, and the ability to work with people from all walks of life to be the most important things to be successful in the business world.

Disc Golf Experience: My first experience with disc golf was at the Home of Grace in 2014 where they had a 5-hole loop that hooked me to the sport. In early 2018 I decided to play more and get more involved in my local disc golf scene. I’ve played consistently every week since then. Disc golf has saved my life in many ways both physically and mentally and has shown me that serving others is a true passion of mine. I became a member of my local club the Hattiesburg Disc Golf Association in 2018. The HDGA is one of the largest and most organized clubs in MS. In 2022, I decided to get more involved in the management of the club and was elected as the Vice President and then the President in 2023 & 2024. Over the last 3 years, I have gained experience by traveling to over 37 PDGA tournaments as a player and running multiple PDGA sanctioned tournaments as a Tournament Director. I have also run local events to benefit charities and to give back to our local club and the members. I am currently one of the lead staffers as a Course TD for Mississippi’s only A-tier and one of the largest PDGA events in the Southeast, the Big Rip Classic. In a short period of time, I believe I have made a positive impact in my local disc golf community by organizing workdays, helping with course design, & being an ambassador between our city and the local disc golf community. I look forward to the opportunity to represent the players and tournament directors of Mississippi as their PDGA State Coordinator.

Montana (1 candidate)

Brian Bjortomt #28854

Disc Golf Experience

Began playing in 1999
Played my first tournament in 2001
Co-founder and President of Garden City Flyers (2005-current)
Montana Points Series Coordinator (2006 – current)
PDGA State Coordinator for Montana (2006-current)
Tournament Director of the Masters Under the Big Sky (only Masters event in our region), Timberbeast Challenge (highest attended event in MT every year), Zoo Town Open (highest payout event in MT every year) and several other events

Additional Candidate Information: As the State Coordinator, I will continue to assist in guiding and promoting the growth of disc golf in Montana

Nevada (1 candidate)

Skot Meyer #42274

Professional Experience

Owner of Atomik Advertising, 1999 to present.
President of the Reno Disc Golf Association 5013c non profit organization 2011 - present (with a couple of years in there in an advisory capacity).
Owner of Disc Giant, a brand and brick and mortar store that was founded to help fund and promote disc golf in our region, 2008 - present.
Occupation: I own and operate an Advertising Ageny, a Disc Golf brand and store and run a 5013c non-profit organization

Disc Golf Experience: Incumbent Nevada State Coordinator for the PDGA, Innova Ambassador, President of the Reno Disc Golf Association, Owner of Disc Giant

Additional Candidate Information: As the current Nevada State Coordinator of Nevada, President of the Reno Disc Golf Association, Founder and organizer of the Sierra Indoor Putting League, Founder and former organizer of the Sierra Tahoe Series and TD of up to a dozen local format and PDGA events a year, I am well known and my reputation speaks for itself. I am also well known for supporting events with my art, and additionaly financially sponsor a number of events that I attendannually. I have run free clinics and I have taught the sport to over 7,000 people in Nevada ranging in size from small groups of disadvantaged youth to entire schools. I am responsible for helping build and fund a number of courses as well as fund raise and assist with many more outside of our region and continue to do so. I act in an advisory capacity to a number of clubs in and outside of Nevada. As President of the Reno Disc Golf association since 2011, I have helped grow our organization and the sport through my efforts with the help of many friends in the region. My efforts gained the attention of one of the most prominent manufactureres in the sport, Innova, and I serve proudly as an ambassador for their team.

Most importantly, I am you. A fellow player and someone who loves the sport. When not organizing and running events, I am playing in them. From small local C-Tiers to Worlds. I know what I want to experience at PDGA events from a players perspective, and I want to help make sure that everyone participating in PDGA events has a good experience and has their expectations met. I do that at my events, but try to help at other events where I can to imorove the player experience. I advocate for the fair and just treatment of players and their concerns because we not only enioy the sport, we built it.

Thank you for your consideration friends, your continued help and support are appreciated!

New Brunswick (1 candidate)

Duncan Dixon #14829

Professional Experience

Manager YMCA Camp Elphinstone 2000-2004
CEO Cumberland YMCA 2004-2007
High School Teacher 2007-Current

Disc Golf Experience: I have played Disc Golf since 1998, I have been a PDGA Rep for BC, NB, NS, PEI, NFLD I have served in this capacity for almost 15 years. I have built courses in several provinces, run events from C to A tier, and run some of the largest most successful events in Canadian history along with a great team. I have been on the Board of Directors for multiple Disc Golf provincial and regional organizations, as well as a nonprofit privet sustainable disc golf course. I have represented Canada at the PDGA World championships. Disc Golf has taken me around the world playing and competing.

New Jersey (2 candidates)

Eric Schubert #62497

Professional Experience

Tournament Operations Intern at NJ State Golf Association May 2024 - Present
Tournament Director at Professional Disc Golf Association February 2023 - Present
Site Supervisor at Bernards Township Summer Camps June 2022 - August 2023
Group Leader at Bernards Township Summer Camps June 2021 - August 2021
Counselor at Bernards Township Summer Camps June 2019 - August 2019
Caddy at New Jersey National Golf Club - June 2018 - August 2018

Disc Golf Experience

Competition Experience
- Rating: 984, High rating: 989
- 198 career tournaments
- 38 wins (25 MPO wins, 13 amateur wins)
- $11,711 earnings
- Three MPO B-Tier wins
Tournament Directing Experience
- Directed my first tournament in February 2023
- 10 total tournaments directed
- Lead TD for the 2023 New Jersey State Championships
- Two B-Tiers directed
Volunteer Experience
- Board member of the Thompson Grove Disc Golf Club
- One of three groundskeepers for The Grove @ Thompson Grove Park DGC
- Co-Founder of the Ridge High School Disc Golf Club in 2020

Additional Candidate Information

Student at the University of Rhode Island, graduating May 2025
Certified in Bloomberg Market Concepts and Microsoft Office: Excel
Mentor in the URI Business 101 student-teaching program
Vice President of URI Club Pickleball
4-year Varsity Ice Hockey player (Senior year Assistant Captain), 4-year Varsity Golf (Senior year Captain) at Ridge High School
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-schubert-6a54b0295/

Tom Francavilla #257882

Professional Experience: During the last 19 years I've spent working in construction risk/management insurance for one of the largest general contractors in the US, I've had to rely on the same skills I would bring to the New Jersey disc golf community. They include:

1) Communication - My work life requires timely responses and clear, concise communication - I plan to bring this same approach to being the state coordinator.

2) Organization - Organization is critical to keep the the insurance programs of several companies, who work in dozens of states and countries, running smoothly. As state coordinator, this will allow consistent communication around tournaments and other opportunities for engagement, as well as partnership with neighboring states.

3) Analytical skills/problem solving - The first several years of my career were as a data analyst, and in recent years my role has required a collaborative approach to problem solving between groups with different goals. The role of state coordinator will benefit from these skills.

4) Leadership - I'm grateful to be thought of as a strong leader within my team at work. But leadership is only possible in support of a greater goal and a larger community. At work, I'm fortunate enough to be supported by a great team. As state coordinator, my leadership will be in service of the greater disc golf community.

Disc Golf Experience: While I have only been a serious disc golf player since 2022, it was a natural evolution of life-long engagement in athletics. I played many sports through high school, and played D3 baseball in college. In more recent years, I've coached my daughters sports teams and spent a couple years on the board of directors of my town softball league prior to CoVid.

Since being introduced to disc golf, I immediately fell in love with the sport and haven't been able to get enough. I've played in several events over the last couple of years, and this year began to TD events with several friends (under the name CRKT disc golf). Those experiences have given me insight into what is required to run an event that puts the players first - an attitude that I plan to carry over into a role as state coordinator.

Additional Candidate Information: My interest in serving as state coordinator is part of a desire to give back to the community that has become a huge part of my life in a short period of time.

As state coordinator, my main goals are:

1) Create an environment that is welcoming to players of all ages and skill levels

2) Support tournament directors to ensure the best participation for their events, including coordination with NJ's neighboring states

3) Promote efforts to grow tournament attendance and create education opportunities to introduce the sport to new players, especially youth

Since I discovered disc golf, my involvement has grown from playing casually, to playing tournaments, to becoming a TD and putting on several events. NJ is the home to so many excellent courses, and even more passionate, engaged players, clubs, and TD's. As state coordinator, I will support these groups and all their efforts to continue to make New Jersey a great place to play disc golf.

New York (2 candidates)

James Carman #56329

Professional Experience: I've been in a management or leadership role for most of my professional career. I worked in the restaurant industry for 10+ years and now work in the trading card industry as a product manager for multiple categories.

Disc Golf Experience: I've been volunteering with leagues and tournaments for 10+ years. I serve on two local club boards, Niagara Region Disc Golf as President and Western New York Disc Golf as Parks Relationship Coordinator. I've been a part of course design, redesign and expansion. I've coordinated thousands of hours of work days at local courses. I work directly with local government and parks officials. I've served 2 years as the State Coordinator and would love to continue doing so.

Scott Sherwood #155238

Professional Experience: For the past five years, I have been a dedicated member of the IT Team at New Direction Youth and Family Services in Western New York, where I hold responsibilities for managing operations across several locations in Niagara and Orleans Counties. In addition to my current role, I bring a solid foundation in Drafting and Design, having earned a degree from ITT Technical. My professional journey also includes extensive experience in retail and management roles, where I honed my skills in customer service, team leadership, and operational efficiency. Moreover, I have actively engaged in digital media and production, leveraging these skills to enhance project outcomes and organizational effectiveness.

Disc Golf Experience: My journey into disc golf began in 2015, initially playing on and off until fully immersing myself in the sport in the summer of 2020. By 2021, I had begun participating in tournaments and joined Team Spartan Discs late in the season-a decision that shifted my focus from playing to learning the intricacies of event management. With Spartan, I've taken on various roles, from organizing and promoting events to improving player experiences by assisting with course setup and even preparing meals.

During this time, I also identified a significant communication gap in the Western New York disc golf community, exacerbated by the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. To address this issue, I launched DiscGolf716, a comprehensive website that consolidates information from platforms like Disc Golf Scene and Facebook, providing a centralized hub for local disc golf enthusiasts.

Additional Candidate Information: Over the past four years, my journey in the disc golf community has been transformative. As a dedicated participant in leagues and tournaments, I've gained invaluable insights into both the sport and its organizational intricacies. From contributing to Spartan Discs' successful events to establishing my own brand, DiscGolf716, I've endeavored to address community needs and foster growth.

Disc golf has evolved into a cornerstone of my life, and I'm enthusiastic about advancing to the role of your state coordinator for the next two years. My aspiration extends beyond mere office duties; I aim to serve as a true ambassador for our beloved sport. Through meaningful dialogues with players, retailers, and clubs statewide, I've witnessed firsthand the remarkable skill and passion that define our community.

I'm eager to leverage this passion to promote and celebrate New York's vibrant disc golf scene. Together, let's elevate our sport and showcase its unique spirit throughout the state. Links: www.discgolf716.com

Newfoundland & Labrador (1 candidate)

Johnston Miller #192206

Professional Experience

2007-2015: Worked at a university in a variety of roles, mostly grant writing, manuscript editing and research support in a biology research lab
2015-2023: Primarily a stay-at-home father
2024-Present: Teaching English as a Second Language part time

Disc Golf Experience

Playing since 2020, PDGA member since 2021
2021-Present: Board Member and Events Director, Disc Golf NL (Provincial Sports Organization)
2022-Present: Co-founder and Current President, Corner Brook Disc Golf (local club)
2022-Present: Tournament Director for five PDGA-sanctioned tournaments

Additional Candidate Information: This is the first year Newfoundland and Labrador will be represented through a local Provincial Coordinator. My experience TDing events and working with local and provincial groups make me a great fit for the role. For more information about the work I have been a part of, check out cbdg.ca, discgolfnl.com, and their social media accounts.

North Dakota (1 candidate)

Michael Anderson #81612

Professional Experience: I am currently a Sales Representative for Henry's Food's. This job gives me the opportunity to travel all over our state of North Dakota. I have been in either sales or management position for the last 14 years.

I am married to my wife (Laine) for 18 years and we have four children ranging from 12-21, so they keep us very busy. When I am not working, playing disc golf or the never ending house projects we are usually fishing or taking walks.

Disc Golf Experience: I starting playing disc golf in 2015 at the age of 35. I wish I would have found this sport sooner. I am currently playing MP40 and waiting for other people to be joining this group with me. Currently running a bag tag league and helping with our doubles league.

I am always willing to help out wherever is needed. Changing tops of baskets, giving ideas on a layout, painting OB lines, and the 100's of hours weed eating the various courses to get them tournament ready. I will continue to help out whenever and wherever I can. It has become a greater gift to be able to have a course ready for a tourney and watch the other competitors enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Between running various tourneys and volunteering, I am looking forward to taking my next step in disc golf.

Nova Scotia (1 candidate)

Adam Dowe #77628

Professional Experience: With my job as a coordinator I spend my days scheduling and planning field service technicians throughout the Atlantic provinces.

In the past I've captained Ultimate Teams, Volunteer at my kids school, and Volunteer at my local disc golf club

Lately between maintaining the scheduling of my household of 5 I continue to maintain and schedule many of the leagues and events in and around the province.

Disc Golf Experience: Disc Golf entered my life in August of 2015 when the first basketed course in HRM was installed just 5 minutes from my home. I quickly fell in love with the sport and the course.

I can be found enjoying my time playing rounds, Running leagues, Td'ing tournaments or working on my local course so It can be enjoyed by more and more players, as well as supporting other courses around the Atlantic provinces as best I can.

Organizing Leagues - Both Sanctioned and Unsanctioned
Running Tournaments - Both Sanctioned and Unsanctioned
Course Design
Course Maintenance and improvements
Fundraising
Introducing the sport to others

Additional Candidate Information: Instagram - asdiscgolf

Oklahoma (1 candidate)

Jason Schwake #25743

Professional Experience

STATE COORDINATOR FOR THE LAST 2 TERMS.
20 PLUS YEARS OF TOURNAMENT DIRECTION EXPERIENCE.

Disc Golf Experience: I HAVE BEEN PLAYING SINCE THE LATE 90'S. HORRIBLE PLAYERS, BUT IT SURE IS FUN.

Additional Candidate Information: I HAVE BEEN THE STATE COORDINATOR FOR THE LAST SEVERAL TERMS.

Oregon (1 candidate)

Madison Tomaino #60798

Professional Experience: Hello! I'm Madison Tomaino- your reigning PDGA Oregon State Coordinator. I have served as State Coordinator for the last 4 years, helping plan the calender for sanctioned tournaments in Oregon. Being State Coordinator requires a high level of organization, quick communication, and proficient technology skills. I have worked in tech for over 10 years as a project manager- these professional skills are necessary for being an effective State Coordinator.

Disc Golf Experience: I've been playing sanctioned disc golf for 11 years and am an active tournament player in Oregon. I have great relationships will all of our Oregon TDs and aim to be helpful and informative. I recently was awarded the Becky Zallek Women's Choice Tournament Director Award through the PDGA- the culmination of a year of hard work growing sanctioned women's disc golf in Oregon.

Additional Candidate Information: Over the last 4 years I've proven that I can respond to TDs requests quickly and put together a yearly calender that is coherent and fair to all. This position requires someone that can be constantly available to tournament requests and has an intimate knowledge of the PDGA tour standards- Oregon has A LOT of sanctioned golf, and requires a competent and diligent coordinator, like me! :)

Prince Edward Island (1 candidate)

Kyle Bates #97837

South Carolina (1 candidate)

Vern Weygandt #75126

Professional Experience

30+ years in education (college/university, public school, private school)

Disc Golf Experience

Playing since 2010
TD of various sanctioned events since 2018 (all tiers and leagues)
Active in local club as a board member since 2019
Course design (assist and lead) since 2019 with two new courses premiering late-summer 2024
Disc golf videographer for the YouTube channel “The Great Courses of South Carolina”
- Includes historical course reviews, discussion of course design, and tournament coverage. 2024 has seen significant growth in the channel with coverage of 15 events, corporate sponsorships, and over 100K views in the past year.
SC PDGA Coordinator (2022-2024)
Upper Park Brand Ambassador

Tennessee (1 candidate)

Rod Norton #43010

Professional Experience

US Army (Pirmasens, GER & Ft Benning GA 1987-1991
Voss Manufacturing (Sanborn NY) 1993-2006
Young Touchstone (Jackson TN) 2006-present

Disc Golf Experience

Playing since 2008
PDGA Member since 2010
Club president of the Jackson TN club from 2010-2016
Played BG Ams 2010 to present
Am Worlds 2011, GBO 2015
TD of Ace Race, Birdie Bashes, USDGC Doubles Qualifier, DD USAMPC and Ice Bowls
Pro Pool TD for TN State Championships from 2020-2024

Texas (North) (2 candidates)

Thomas Veal #36573

Professional Experience: Im a Project Manager and Senior Network Engineer for Snider Technology. Been working in the IT field for over 10 years and prior to that ive been in management in both retail as well as Customer Service

Disc Golf Experience: Ive been playing tournaments for over 14 years. Ive been running tournaments for over 8 years. My wife and I have opened our own disc golf store and been running that for the past 4 years. Been the Tournament Director for a few A tiers, over 50 B tiers, and countless c tiers. Ive also been part of the staff with the NADGT. Also have been a prodigy sponsored player for the past 5 years. Low Putt Disc golf has been our company name and run over 15 tournaments a year.

Tanner Girouard #88077

Professional Experience

Manager at David’s Vending LLC (January 2011– December 2020)
- Cultivated new vendor relationships using dynamic communication and negotiation skills. Managed annual budget covering all company purchasing needs. Conducted market research to determine appropriate pricing. Selected and negotiated contracts with supply vendors to obtain top-notch pricing on parts and equipment.

Disc Golf Experience

2021 & 2022 - Lone Star Disc Team Captain and Touring Pro
2020 - Prodigy Disc Tournament Team
2019 - Prodigy Disc Tournament Team
2018 - Placed top 10 in 34 out of 39 sanctioned tournaments.
2017 - First year playing disc golf and moved up to the open field

Additional Candidate Information: Results-focused disc golf professional with specialties in event planning and vending services. Proactive leader with strengths in communication and collaboration. Proficient in leveraging disc golf and tournament knowledge to promote the growth of the sport across Southeast Texas and beyond. I’ve played 293 events in the last seven years and I’m PDGA Official Certified. I would love to give back to the sport that has given so much to me.

Utah (1 candidate)

Dave Roper #29903

Professional Experience: I am seeking reelection as PDGA Utah State Coordinator to continue my opportunity to serve the disc golf community. My prior experience, ethics, and organizational skills make me an excellent choice. As State Coordinator, I have worked with TDs across the state to help resolve as many scheduling conflicts as possible. I would be honored to receive your vote for re-election and pledge to continue trying to best serve our players. As an engineer, I know accuracy is critical. I also excel at root cause analysis which helps me resolve Utah tournament scheduling conflicts with both in and out of state events.

Disc Golf Experience: I started playing competitive disc golf in 2006 in So Cal and have played at about 150 different courses across the US. I moved to Utah in 2009 and have been involved in the Utah disc golf scene since. I ran the 2011 Creekside Open and 4 big events at Solitude (both Monster Energy's and both Mello Yello's). I've been the state coordinator since ~2014 and am now competing in the MP40 division at as many of the Utah events that I can.

Virginia (1 candidate)

Bob Cannon #26532

Professional Experience: 33 years with the Department of Defense in Dahlgren Virginia

West Virginia (1 candidate)

Brook Johnson #108871

Professional Experience

I have been a Pre-K teacher, Paralegal, Private Investigator, and have worked in Auditing/accounting.
Treasurer of Criminal Justice Club (college)

Disc Golf Experience

PDGA Member since 2018
I have competed in 91 sanctioned events since 2018, ranging from Ma4- FPO divisions.
Tournament Director - Sanctioned and Unsactioned events
I have ran singles, doubles, and putting leagues, as well as Women's only Leagues
WV State Coordinator - 2022-2024
PDGA Competition Committee Member - 2024

Additional Candidate Information: I hope to help Tournament Directors across West Virginia continue to promote Disc Golf in state. WV TDs are doing such a great job of running fantastic events that showcase what WV has to offer disc golfers.

Wyoming (1 candidate)

Zach Meeker #42225

Professional Experience: My name is Zach Meeker. I live in Cheyenne, WY and play disc golf through out the front range (WY, NE & CO). I enjoy keeping up with the PDGA tournaments in our area, running and advising on local events and introducing the sport to others through positive interactions.

I am a business professional specializing in Information Technology. I have a passion for problem solving, innovation and learning.

Disc Golf Experience: I joined the PDGA in 2010 years ago. I have played, directed and consulted on many PDGA sanctioned events in Wyoming over the past 10 years. I am a member of several disc golf clubs in the area and enjoy supporting and growing the sport through grass roots efforts.

Additional Candidate Information: LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/zach-meeker-gsec-mcsa-09253b10

Yukon Territory (1 candidate)

Jamie Roddick #113535

Professional Experience: I have worked in many different industries including aquaculture, construction, mineral exploration, environmental consulting, and expediting. Currently, I work as the Environment Officer for a self-governing First Nation in Yukon Territory. My primary role is to collaborate with the Yukon’s environmental assessment board to review and raise environmental, cultural, and heritage concerns on behalf of the First Nation.

Disc Golf Experience: I began playing Disc Golf in the spring of 2017 when I moved to Whitehorse, Yukon and met a local group who played frequently. I fell in love with the sport and picked up my first set of discs that evening from the local club. I played my first tournament one year later at the Pender Island Classic 2018, meeting many other incredible disc golfers and igniting my competitive side. I travelled home to Ontario in the fall of 2019 and crossed over to New York State to play my first sanctioned PDGA event (NY State Championships). This opened my eyes to a side of competitive disc golf that I had little exposure to in the Yukon. Upon returning to the Yukon in the summer of 2019 I joined the board of directors for our local club, Whitehorse Disc Golf Association (WDGA) and began travelling to British Columbia to play more frequently in PDGA-sanctioned events. Once the pandemic settled down I picked back up competitive play again and began to see the shortfalls in our local disc golf scene as the popularity exploded through the pandemic. In 2022, Kevin King the NADGT Canadian Tour Director contacted me about running a NADGT event here in Whitehorse and I jumped on the opportunity to have more PDGA-sanctioned event representation here in the territory as we have many local players who travel for PDGA events. In 2023, I was nominated for the President role for the local WDGA and took on the responsibility of returning the association to good standing as a non-profit organization. Since then, the club has taken leaps and bounds in many ways including, securing funding for course upgrades and new equipment, creating a website, running leagues, and organizing to support community needs better. I want to see the sport of disc golf flourish in the Yukon and as disc golf in the territory continues to grow I want to be able to support larger events and sanctioned play.

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2024 PDGA State & Provincial Coordinator Candidates

2024 PDGA State & Provincial Coordinator Candidates

Alaska (1 Candidate)

Arizona (1 candidate)

British Columbia (1 candidate)

California (South) (1 candidate)

Connecticut (2 candidates)

District of Columbia (1 candidate)

Florida (1 candidate)

Hawaii (1 candidate)

Illinois (1 candidate)

Iowa (1 candidate)

Kentucky (1 candidate)

Maine (1 candidate)

Maryland (2 candidates)

Massachusetts (1 candidate)

Michigan (1 candidate)

Mississippi (1 candidate)

Montana (1 candidate)

Nevada (1 candidate)

New Brunswick (1 candidate)

New Jersey (2 candidates)

New York (2 candidates)

Newfoundland & Labrador (1 candidate)

North Dakota (1 candidate)

Nova Scotia (1 candidate)

Oklahoma (1 candidate)

Oregon (1 candidate)

Prince Edward Island (1 candidate)

South Carolina (1 candidate)

Tennessee (1 candidate)

Texas (North) (2 candidates)

Utah (1 candidate)

Virginia (1 candidate)

West Virginia (1 candidate)

Wyoming (1 candidate)

Yukon Territory (1 candidate)

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