FootGolf: A New Sensation!

A NEW SENSATION in the plethora of sports activities is sweeping across the United States. It's called FootGolf.  Actually, it's an unconventional combination of soccer and golf.  Many soccer players and traditional golfers are supportive. And, they are getting in on the action themselves!

Generally speaking, FootGolf follows the standard rules of golf. And, it is played on regular golf courses following the existing alignment of tee boxes, fairways, and greens. Like golf, the sport is for individuals or teams, and a round consists of 9 or 18 holes.

However, for FootGolf, regular soccer balls (size 5) are used.  On each hole, competitors kick the ball from the tee box into the fairway and on toward a special flag stick with a 21-inch hole. These "cups" are often located to the side of the regular greens. (Some courses, not officially accredited for FootGolf and without the larger holes, may allow balls which simply hit the regular pin on the green to count as "in the hole.") In any case, balls need to be easy to identify with specific kickers.

While it may seem reasonable that long kicks from the tee box or fairway are most important, actually good kicks from the shorter distances (within "chipping or putting range") may be more necessary. Whatever the location of the ball, each kick must be "distinct." No pushing of the ball with a foot is permitted!

Just as in regular golf, scorecards should be used for FootGolf. The individual or team with the fewest number of kicks after 9 or 18 holes is the winner of the round. No soccer shoes with steel cleats are allowed. Only shoes with soft rubber cleats or soles, such as regular golf shoes, are permitted. The ball may be kicked with the toe or side of the shoe. While walking is usually encouraged on a golf course, FootGolfers - like regular golfers - may choose to use gas or electric carts.

It is believed that FootGolf was first organized and played in 2009 in the Netherlands. Soon thereafter the sport crossed the Atlantic where the first round of FootGolf was played in the U.S. in 2011. Later that same year, the American FootGolf League was formed.  In 2012, the Federation of International FootGolf (FIFG) was born.

Over 25 countries now have FootGolf participants, including Canada, Mexico, England, Hungary, and Argentina. Many U.S. states are enthusiastic about the sport, and a large number of accredited courses are already open.  In addition, the Professional Golfers Association (PGA) is quite aware of this new phenomenon, and is becoming more interested in FootGolf.  The organization sees it as a sport with a growing popularity across the country. Leaders believe it has the potential of boosting golf itself; and, they are convinced that it will be helpful to golf courses which have declining revenues, or those seeking new clientele.

FootGolf is a mixed-gender sport for most any age. It is known as "friendly golf," and has proven to be ideal for socialization and great for families. And, who knows? FootGolf might just prove to be the fastest growing leisure activity of this decade. If so, I really wouldn't be surprised!