This year's Virginia States Frisbee tournament was an eye-opening experience in many ways. Reflecting on the “Final Game” of the competition, it's clear how my lack of training and practice led to my placings in each event. I finished 8th overall, including 18th in MTA and 6th in Distance. You can see all the results here. Congratulations to Chris and Katy on their overall wins in Open and Women's!
My fitness level wasn't where I wanted to be, I hadn't played a round of disc golf, and I hadn't gotten out to practice MTA or distance.
As a result, I wasn't as warmed up or trained as I should have been when the competitions started, and my overall placings in the competitions reflected this lack of preparation. Despite this, I was proud to make it to the distance final, with one of the best throws of the weekend in the semi-finals. Plus, I had a throw in the warm-up for MTA that would have given me the win, so I know the potential is there – the preparation wasn't. Surprisingly, my body held up better than expected, so I know that getting plenty of sleep and good protein intake helped me recover.
With the transition to the Infinite Game, the tournament is SO MUCH more than just a competition. It is a reunion of the Frisbee family, gathering at Shelter H for our annual Laszlo tradition, making nearly 1,000 throws, sharing stories, hugs, laughs, tears, and remembering why we love this sport and this family so much. The chitchat between throws on the disc golf course, the great times playing DDC with Riley, and all the inside jokes, jibes, and heckling was something I missed so much.
A very special moment was the induction of Mike and Jeannette into the Virginia Frisbee Hall of Fame. I interviewed them when I last competed in Virginia in 2019. You can read it here. Their impact on me was indelible and they imparted wisdom that I incorporate into every Frisbee talk. Staying with the Koonts family, who are always so gracious and heated, reminded me of the deep personal connections this sport fosters. It was heartwarming to be called “best friend” by their girls, a testament to the bonds formed over years of shared experiences.
Jack, who introduced me to the overalls in 2011, continues to be a constant source of inspiration and it was an honour to compete with him in the distance final. Watching some of the world's best freestylers perform (and jam for fun) was simply inspiring and pushed me to develop my skills further. Also, playing mini golf at the Riverby Bookstore (Riverby Annual General Meeting) is always a highlight and the reason I come a day early every year.
Special thanks to Jay (the Koonts) and Sam (the Kayes) who have agreed to run the event. They have taken over from Eric, who ran the event for 33 years, and have added their unique touches while keeping the heart and soul of the event. Their attention to detail is impressive and ensures that each year is better than the last.
As I look forward to Shelter H in 2025, I am reminded once again why I come back every year: It is the Frisbee family and the endless opportunities within this community that make each tournament worthwhile.
Here’s to more litters, more laughter and constant learning in the years to come!
