Player Profiles

Morley Player Profile: Eric Simmons

Eric Simmons(aka Jerry Parcia)eric PDGA#: 34300 Division: MG1

Began Playing Disc Golf: Played  1st pole hole course at Morley back in the 70’s (can’t remember 60’s & 70’s to well)

First Disc: 86 mold whamo

Favorite Hole at Morley: 17, got 1st Ace, over the top annhyzer, back in 70 something

Morley Field Aces: ...again, memory kind of fuzzy…?

Favorite Disc: Z BUZZ , It goes straight

Favorite Driver: Star Destroyer (special obstacle avoidance plastic formula)

Favorite Midrange: see above

Favorite Putter: ...this week it’s  an aviar (Fling tourney disc)

In My Bag: Ibuprofen

Tourney wins and / or Top 5 finishes: 2009 Santa Maria Open 1st MG1 2009 Sun Valley Open 1st MG1 2009 Sunrise Showdown 2nd MG1 2009 Summertime Open 2nd MG1 2008 Emerald Isle Open 1st MG1

Favorite Disc Golf Website: The new Morleyfield.com (someone must put a lot of hard work to make it soooooooooooooooooooooo goooooooooooood)

Favorite Pro Player: Snapper, Bill (Mr. Putter) Richards, & John Talent  because they have forgotten more about disc golf than I’ll ever know and they share the knowledge they can remember freely.

Tips for newer players and players looking to improve: Play with Snapper, Bill, & J.T.

Morley Player Profile: Randy Wylott

Randy WylotNickname: “whynot”randy2 PDGA# 11780 Adv. Masters

Started Playing Disc Golf: Started playing casual rounds at Morley mid 1990's to fill time between freestyle events. Registered with the PDGA four years ago and started playing out of town tournaments and So Cal events. Morley is my home course.

First Disc: …that I can remember throwing on the course is a cyclone.

Favorite Hole at Morley: Hole 11 deep with the mandatory.

Morley Field Aces: ..."aces", what aces! I have no aces.

Favorite Disc: Sparkle Squal with the Aces club stamp

Favorite Driver: 12 Star Climo Wraith

Favorite Midrange: Discraft Wasp

Favorite Putter: Soft magnet and super puppy

In My Bag: 12 time Star Wraith Star roadrunner Champion Valkyrie Star t-rex Star TL Champion Leopard Champion Gator Champion Wasp Champion Buzz Champion Squall

Favorite Website: The PDGA and soon to be Aces website

Favorite Pro Players: Micah Dorias, Carlo Pelg, and Mike Slonim. Micah is a mechanical wizard with amazing accuracy, Carlo's natural talent and determination make him one of my favorites, and Mike's humble nature and sportsmanship. I can watch these guys play all day every day.

Tips: Play with as many top quality players as possible. Play as many out of town courses as you can. Practice your throws in an open field and learn what your discs can do. Learn different release angles. Stay positive and reinforce good habits. And give back to the disc golf community, support the San Diego Aces Disc Golf Club.

Morley Player Profile: Pete Staats

IMG_4644_2Peter StaatsPDGA#: 21553 Division: Really Super Good

Began Playing Disc Golf: When my buddy Sully showed it to me when I was in College back in MN.  It was fun, free, and a perfect waste of time.  Plus, when you throw it, you get to watch it:  That, I believe, is mostly the point.  I can't stress that enough.

First Disc: A totally sick DX XL.  I threw it super far sidearm, way over 100 ft.  I ruined it in the dishwasher and it saddens me.

Favorite Holes at Morley: 1. #16 long.  Good luck, razor wire anyone?  Plus, if it hyzers out you get to scream at the top of your lungs "Fore," which, of course, nobody pays any mind to:  That, I believe is the rest of the point.

2. #10 long.  It's a great hole that eerily echos 16 long, without the razor wire.

3. #19 long and short.  I'm addicted to fun and this hole helps with that.

Morley Field Aces: More than a few and less than Donny Olow; good god Donny.

Favorite Disc: I would have said an Z-Xtreme, but I didn't.  Z-Magnet for the moment.

Favorite Drivers: Pro Destroyer.  I love using it whenever possible--it's great to serve dinner on too.  Z-Magnets.  Try one, they're neato.

Favorite Midranges: Shockwave (goes left), Squall (goes straight), Comet (goes right), and MRV (goes in my bag and just feels right).

Favorite Putter: Challenger.  I have one old, one new, one borrowed...

In My Bag: Couple of Pro Destroyers (Old and Newer) Z-Force Z-Xtreme Shockwave Squall Comet MRV Couple of Z-Magnets (terrible putters, great drivers) Couple of Pro D. Challengers (Old and Newish)

Tourney wins and / or Top 5 finishes (not necessarily from Morley): I'm not a tournament player, and have been told that I am a terrific waste of talent.  I take pride in that as I cry myself to sleep over it night after night.

Favorite Disc Golf Website: Of the plethora out there, I like all of them but one.  This website the best--Mark Wilson's done a terrific job here!  (check is in the mail Pete!)

Favorite Pro Players: As far a people who have taught me, Micah Dorius.  He gives lessons and I highly recommend anyone who actively wants to get better to contact him.  Carlo Pelg as well, he specifically taught me the intended flightpath of different discs; they are not all the same.  Also, my buddy Sully back in MN.  He's just too super to not include here.

…Of all time: Cameron Todd.  His nickname is 'Angry Clown.'  Just because of that, I must put him at the top (Super-Dave is a close second).  If someone shows up with 'Mullet Matt,' or some other hubristic nickname I'll shuffle the list immediately.  Mind you, my list is completely void of any meaning whatsoever.

Tips for newer players and players looking to improve: For the game:  Throw the disc as hard and as smooth as you can without breaking your arm (ahem...), then adjust accordingly after asking many, many questions.  Repeat as necessary. Do this during the day only. For yourself:  Set goals that are possible for you and go for it. For me:  Have fun and be respectful.

- editors note: we try to use pictures for the profiles that are taken at Morley Field. If you know Pete this shot of him playing Bayside in 2008 captures exactly who he is. If you have been lucky enough to play a round with Pete, then you are better for it!

Player Profile: Michael Lust "Lusty"

Michael "Lusty" Lustlust2 PDGA#: 27228 Division: Openish

Began Playing Disc Golf: Morley, with some college buddies.  Some good economically friendly fun.

First Disc: Cyclone Dx

Favorite Hole at Morley: 6, Where I set my first goal of making it to the grass consistently.

Morley Field Aces: 15 ish.  23 total.

Favorite Disc: Old Blue,  My oldest disc I still use, blue Firebird that keeps coming back to me.

Favorite Driver: Tee Bird.  Its got a little of everything in it.  Great all purpose fairway driver.

Favorite Midrange: Buzz,  Same idea, can do it all, almost.

Favorite Putter: Aviar x, when cold, KC Pro, when hot.  Mainly, which ever goes in most.

In My Bag: Putters, Aviarx, KC pro Mid ranges, Couple Buzzs, Used to have wasp, and a Gator Drivers, Firebird, Max, TL, Teebird, Teerex, Destroyer, X Caliber, Road Runner and Stingray (primary rollers).

Tourney wins and / or Top 5 finishes (not necessarily from Morley): Couple of good Am finishes,  2006 Morley Field Spring Fling Champion,  Nothing worth writing home about on Open side of things.

Favorite Disc Golf Website: morleyfield.com obviously, PDGA.com,

Favorite Pro Player: Ken Climo,  He's the Champ!

Tips for newer players and players looking to improve: Practice on an open field, or any where but a course.  You get more reps in less time.  Its all about the OTR, opportunity to respond.  You'll get more on in an open field then at a course. Then maybe Morley field wouldn't be so busy!!! Secondly, If you want to get better, compete.  Playing in a competitive environment will improve your game faster then your casual rounds with your buddies you beat all the time.  You will see things you might have not seen before, and SEEING IS BELIEVING! Also, Believe in your self.  Self Confidence is priceless.

Morley Player Profile: William Lister

William Listerlister2Nickname: Let it Bang! PDGA#: 31722 Division: Open

Began Playing Disc: Olathe, Ks. Target golf. I had a friend in college that played. He got me started.

First Disc: DX Eagle

Favorite Hole at Morley: 6 long. It is up hill and you either have to go over trees, if you have a big arm like me, or roll it 475 ft "Mas o Menos".

Morley Field Aces: Holes 2,3,13,16, and 17

Favorite Disc: Force. I throw many spike hyzers and starting to throw grenades. Super fast disc.

Favorite Driver: Tee-Bird. It is a work horse. Always reliable.

Favorite Midrange: Elite Z Buzz. It needs no explanation. Its the best.

Favorite Putter: Discrafts Soft Banger Gt. I putt the best with it.

In My Bag: Force, Boss, Pulse, Tee-Rex, Tee-Bird, Destroyer, TL, Leapord, Star Whippet-X, Zone, Buzz, Stingray, Soft Banger Gt, and FLX Challenger.

Favorite Disc Golf Website: Ebay. LSDiscs Plastic. They are from my home town Topeka, Ks.

Favorite Pro Player: Micah Dorius. He is one of the top players in the world. He has given me great advice on my game. We have the same opinion on why the sport of disc golf is being held back in todays world. Just an all around good guy with a great attitude.

Tips for newer players and players looking to improve: Putting is key. You can have a bad drive and be 40 feet out pulling off a Bird. If youre a good putter you dont need to be so accurate with your drives. Just sink long putts.

Morley Player Profile: Michelle Chambless

Hole 6Michelle ChamblessNickname: "Meesh" PDGA#: Not yet, next year for sure Division: Rec/Intermediate Women

Began Playing Disc Golf: December 2008. My husband Dale (aKa "Godfather") became quickly addicted to disc golf and I had to see what all the hullabaloo was about. Now I am successfully addicted and have introduced 3 other women to the game

First Disc: Borrowed -  175 Yellow champion Beast, Owned - 175 Pink & Gray Star Destroyer

Favorite Hole at Morley: 11 - Fun hole, shooting down hill like 5 without the head wind. Short positions are Ace-able and long positions are SUPER challenging (especially through the double mandy)

Morley Field Aces: Not yet!

Favorite Disc : 175 Champion Road Runner - I'm on my second one (lost my first one in the Lake at the El Do Open). Just flies right for me almost everytime

Favorite Driver: 150 R-Pro Boss - This disc is awesome! Flies FOREVER. My husband showed me how to Haizer Flip and now I can drive past the pyramid on 5 :0)

Favorite Midrange: 175 DX Cro - Stable enough to always come back

Favorite Putter: 170 R-Pro Aviar - Soft enough to stick in the chains, sturdy enough to get it there

In My Bag: 175 Champion Roadrunner 174 Tsunami163 DX Destroyer 167 Champion Groove 170 ESP Surge 175 Star Destroyer 175 DGA Rogue 169 Champion Leopard 169 Star TL| 174 Stratus 175 Teebird 150 R-Pro Boss 172 DX Skeeter 167 Star Skeeter 175 DX Cro 175 Star Kite

Tourney wins and / or Top 5 finishes: 1st Place - January 2009 Monthly (Women's Division) 3rd Place - 2009 El Dorado Open (Intermediate Women's Division)

Favorite Disc Golf Website: DiscgolfersR.us - It's like social networking for the disc golf world, LOVE it

Favorite Pro Player: Just like good potato chips, I can't pick just 1 :0) Fave's include: Carlo Pelg, Kent La Gree, Daniel "Big D" Lichtman, Kevin "KG" Gomez - ALL of these guys have contributed to my quick success in disc golf and I admire them all

Tips for newer players and players looking to improve: Learn to throw flat first! I've taught/coached several people and that is the #1 thing I start them off with. Play with angles after you have more experience, start out flat!

Morley Player Profile: Ken Jarvis

Ken JarvisP3093604trim Nickname(s) US: Mutant (thanks Miker) NZ: Local Legend PDGA#:14118 Division: Open

Began Playing Disc Golf: Had a family picnic in the park when we were 7 yrs old. Sat across from Hole 8 in the right position and some dude's o.b. shot came rolling right onto our turf. My bro and I, fascinated, picked it up and started chuckin' it. The dude came over and told us about Disc Golf! Took us several months before we tried it,and we never got serious until about 16 yrs(sidearm only). Started throwing backhand at 17 yrs.

First Disc: White Super Puppy.

Favorite Hole at Morley: 3 in the long left position, 5 long, 6 long right position, 19 long position.

Morley Field Aces: 63

Favorite Disc: Whippet X; pure throwing pleasure...

Favorite Driver: Teebird, Aviar.

Favorite Midrange: Champion Shark, and recently the Coyote.

Favorite Putter: The discontinued Omega 1.2 Driver/Putter thing. In My Bag (If I had one): Champion Whippet X 10x Whippet X (beat up) Star Excalibur Star Teebird Star Boss Star Roadrunner (long roller, or distance over tall obstacles) Champion Shark (beat up) Champion Coyote Champion Stingray Star Cro DX Shark (circa 1998 roller) Aviar Driver (semi-beat straight, super beat flippy)

Tourney wins and / or Top 5 finishes: Tied for 5th at the Flagstaff World Champs was definitely a memorable and fitting finish just before I left for New Zealand. Wins at Evergreen Open, Sylmar Open, San Diego Open and Wrightwood (Sunrise Showdown). Also of course breaking the distance record. - video

Favorite Disc Golf Website: pdga.com and morleyfield.com.

Favorite Pro Player(s): Marc Jarvis (his rise from a 200' to 500' thrower within a month is still the most amazing thing I have ever seen.) Micah Dorius, Donny Olow, Rick Bays (just be smooth), Bob Benner, Stevie Rico and Geoff Lissaman were HUGE influences.

Tips for newer players and players looking to improve: Focus and visualize precisely where you want your shot to go. "Willing" it won't work. Always embrace good luck because you will get plenty of bad. Finally, experiment. If you are parking a hole everytime with a hyzer, try the anhyzer or straight shot insead. It'll pay off when you play other courses.

Morley Player Profile: Chris Wymer

CIMG7523Chris WymerNickname: One Time!! PDGA#: 35633 Division: Open

Began Playing Disc Golf: I started playing disc golf in high school in 2001. My friends and I would throw discs and play ultimate at school. One day someone brought a disc golf disc to throw, and the topic of going to play came up. After my first round at Morley I was hooked, and after a brief lull during college I've really started to strive to improve my game (I think it's been paying off a bit.

First Disc: DX Shark, threw it through the chains on 16 B the very same day.

Favorite Hole at Morley (and why?): Hole 16. It's complex, some weeks it's a simple shot that provides an important birdie (or ace run) in the closing holes. However other weeks, it's positioned deeper behind the line of bushes, making things more interesting. There are lots of risk/reward shots on the deeper positions, and with each position there's always the slight chance of taking a tree stroke if you misjudge your drive.

Morley Field Aces: 16 C with a champ Viking and 18 C with a champ Teebird. Both 5 years ago.

Favorite Disc (and why?): It would have to be the Roc. You can do anything with it. Straight shot? No problem. Slight anhyzer? Sure thing. Headwind? No worries. Hyzer shot? I've got it.

Favorite Driver (and why?): I think quite a few people have heard me ramble on and on about this one, hands down champion Teebirds. It's a roc that flies further and faster. It's a really easy disc to control, and very dependable on how it flies it's lines. Plus, with the smaller rim size, it doesn't require the mega-snap that discs such as the boss and destroyer do. As a result I have a better ability to focus on controlling my shot.

Favorite Midrange (and why?): Champion Classic Rocs. It's the best because it is the middle ground between a roc and a spider. Stable, with a dependable fade at the end of it's flight. Beyond that, it's the easiest driver I've found to throw side-arm approach shots with. Unfortunately, they've been discontinued, so good luck finding one.

Favorite Putter (and why?): Aviars. All shapes and varieties. With putting it's the archer, not the arrow, but the aviar is my "arrow" of choice.

In My Bag: Long Range Drivers: Champ Orc Star Excaliber 2 Champ Destroyers Star Boss Fairway Drivers: Champ Leopard Champ Valkyre Champ Teebird Champ Eagle Champ Firebird Midrange: 3 Rocs (Star Ontario, KC, DX) Gateway Blade Spider

Tourney wins and / or Top 5 finishes (not necessarily from Morley): Morley (won each division once in a monthly)

Favorite Disc Golf Website (and why?): PDGA.com. So many resources, and vast amounts of info on up coming tournaments, and course locations.

Favorite Pro Player (and why?): John Childs. I got to watch him during the final round of the Memorial this year. He's a lefty holding his own in the right handed world of disc golf!!

Tips for newer players and players looking to improve: Playing at Morley is fun, however, the one thing that has helped me more than anything with my game has been going to an empty park and throwing every disc in my bag. Find a local park, and learn what your discs want to do. At a park you can take your time and focus on correcting your form, and slowing down your release without having it impact your round. At a park you can figure out how to make your disc fly in specific directions, and more importantly, figure out what it wants to do when released level. It doesn't take long, set aside maybe 45 minutes a couple of times a week. You'll be surprised by the improvement in your game.

Morley Player Profile: Tyler Courtney

Tyler Courtney CIMG7468Intermediate / Recreational

Began Playing Disc Golf: October 2007 at Morley. Thought the game was pretty lame until I hit my first birdie. Been hooked ever since!

First Disc: Pro Wraith and yea, it was pink.

Favorite Holes at Morley: 5 (long positions), 8 (any position)

Morley Field Aces: 1! Hole 2. Took me two and a half years to get it!

Favorite Disc: Champion XCalibur, 175

Favorite Drivers: Champion Boss, Champion TeeBird

Favorite Midrange: Champion Spider, Champion Stingray

Favorite Putters: Magnets (Hard)

In My Bag: Drivers : 175 Champ Boss, 175 Champ XCalibur, 175 First Run Star XCalibur, 173 First Run Champ Groove, 175 Champ Teebird, 167 CFR Wraith, 171 Star TL. Midrange : 175 Champ Spider, 177 Champ Stingray, 172 Star Gator, 180 Champ Shark, 168 Champ Shark,173 ProD Wasp. Putters : 3 ProD Magnets (Various weights), Max Weight Elite Z Magnet.

Tourney Placements : None yet. Need to have tourneys on weekdays!

Favorite Disc Golf Website: dgcoursereview.com

Favorite Pro Player: Ken Climo

Tips for New Disc Golf Players : Buy 3 of the exact same putters and practice your form often. Find a field and unload your bag including midrage and putters to get your disc's flight pattern down. Do this often until comfortable with all your plastic. Always throw at 70% power. Less is more in this game. HAVE FUN and TELL YOUR FRIENDS!

Player Profile: Jonathan Wilson "jdub"

Jonathan WilsonSlide1 "jdub"YDGA#: 1 Future Pro Tour Top Money Earners ($100,00 and above)

Began Playing Disc Golf: 2006 at Morley Field. My dad (mdub) brought me when I was 3 years old. My friend at the course is Luke (Kayleen's son). He and I will be battling it out in a few years just like Micah and Carlo do now!... (and Adazm's son). I like Morley Field but I wish they had golf carts like Emerald Isle. That place rocks!

First Disc: 100g ROC

Favorite Hole at Morley: Either hole 5 (which I can crush) so I can hang out with all the dogs (canines) usually resting near the 5 and 7 teepad or hole 15 because its near the snack bar. I have pared holes 1, 2, 16 and 17!

Morley Field Aces: Zero (the same number that my dad has and he's been playing 30 years!)

Favorite Disc: Orange 120g ROC that Steve Rico gave me at Sylmar

In My Bag: Yellow 100g ROC Orange 120g ROC Clear 110g #2 Hyzer Clear 110g Upshot

Tourney wins and / or Top 5 finishes (not necessarily from Morley): None yet, but I'll take on all-comers' with the proper handicap scoring!

Favorite Disc Golf Website: www.morleyfield.com because my dad does the website

Favorite Pro Player: Snapper or Steve Rico or KG or Carl Renda

Tips for newer players and players looking to improve: "Keep your head in the game"

Noah McBride - A Cool Kid!

His dad knew long before their first visit with Auntie to Morley Field that the boy could throw a Frisbee. Sure, lots of kids can fling one, but Noah's first throws as a toddler in the backyard were natural and possessed an uncanny accuracy. His casual nature and competitive drive eventually led him to the first tee. Noah started playing disc golf regularly this year (2009). At ten years old, he is not the youngest player ever seen at the Morley Field links. But Noah's enthusiasm for the sport is beginning to attract attention and valuable lessons from more experienced players here. His stature as a novice often leads to friendly advice from players much more "in the know" than his old man. Noah  is soaking up every word.

Disc golf at Morley also seems to be teaching Noah there is more to this disc-shaped world than simply waiting at the next tee. With each round, Noah is recognizing and greeting familiar faces on the course and with that he seems to be learning the meaning of community.

These days, Noah proudly carries a budding collection of discs in his own green shoulder bag and, though he won't brag, he will tell you about his first hole-five par. Noah is certainly hooked on Disc Golf and he can't wait to play that next round.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5E8U5g_KmE&hl=en&fs=1&]

From his dad – On December 10, 2007 Noah was eight and half. A benign tumor was found on his optic nerve near his pituitary gland nine months earlier. It had to come out because he would likely lose peripheral vision (or worse), if not. Skilled hands at Children's Hospital removed it; he spent five days at the hospital and recovered at home after that. Back to school in January. Baseball season started in March and he made the allstar roster by May; then allstar soccer in the fall. He is very low-key about it, but it is a significant part of his life and I consider it an amazing life event that he probably won't fathom until he's much older.

It certainly helps me with perspective in my life...

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Say Hi to Noah when you see him on the course. He’s a cool kid!

Player Profile: Dale Chambless "Godfather"

daleDale Chambless “Godfather”Novice/Rec

Began Playing DG: My friends brought me out in the summer of 2008.  I was instantly hooked, and by January I was buying monthly passes so I can play everyday.

First Disc: The first two discs I bought were a first run Champion Boss and an Omega SuperSoft putter after playing for about a month.

Favorite Hole at Morley: 16.  This hole has everything.  Easy ace runs when in the front and long, challenging shots when its deep.

Aces: I'm coming up on one year of disc golf and I still have no aces. Hit the basket, pole, chains, flag, and everything else I could hit, but nothing has stuck yet.

Favorite Disc: The one that goes in the basket

Favorite Driver: Champion Destroyer

Favorite Midrange: Star Cro

Favorite Putter: Omega SS

In My Bag: I often get picked on for carrying way too much plastic, but I feel like I need every disc in my bag to make up for the fact that I'm not very good.  I've got a few discs that I'm letting my wife use too, so this week my bag is holding: Innova:  Star Plastic:  Max, X-Caliber, Destroyer, T-Rex, Gator, Cro. Champion Plastic:  Monster, Destroyer, Boss, Groove, Beast, Starfire, Monarch, Teebird, Leopard, Firebird, Spider. Discraft: Elite X Plastic: Buzz. Z Plastic:  Crystal Challenger, Magnet. Millennium: QJLS, Omega SS (2) Gateway: Assassin

Favorite DG Website: discgolfersr.us and morleyfield.com

Favorite Pro Player:  Haven't met a lot of pros other than the guys that play open at Morley.  The guy that has been the biggest help to game so far is Carlo Pelg.  Friendly, outgoing, helpful, and all business on the course.

Tips for Newer Players: The less you do, the more you do.  Get out of your head.  Slow it down.  Spend a day at the park playing catch with different discs to learn them.  When you're on the course let your instincts take over and "Do Less."

Morley Player Profile: Mike Kvasnicka

mikekMike KvasnickaPDGA#15431 Advanced Masters

Began Playing Disc Golf: 1978 (with Frisbees) & 1992 (with Golf discs)

First Disc: Black Shark

Favorite Hole at Morley: 3 in the tree line right

Morley Field Aces: 3

Favorite Disc: Special Edition Soft Rhyno

Favorite Drivers: Pro Wraith

Favorite Midranges: San Marino Roc

Favorite Putter: Aviar

In My Bag: All the above + a fourth and fifth Run Candy Valkyrie a Third run Candy Teebird, a Z-MRV, a DX whippet, a Star stamp Destroyer and a Star Wraith

Tourney wins and / or Top 5 finishes (not necessarily from Morley): 2007 EIEIO = 1st (Adv Masters) 2007 Spring Fling = 1st (Adv Masters) 2008 Waller Pines Open = 2nd (Adv Masters) 2003? Old Zoo Fling = 1st (Intermediate) 2004 Memorial = 8th (Advanced)

Favorite Disc Golf Website: Right now it’s the 2009 KC Worlds site because I’m going

Favorite Pro Player: Anyone who remains humble (Kenny Jarvis epitomizes this)

Tips for newer players and players looking to improve: Don’t model your game on mine

Fun Fact: I have played 179 courses in 27 states plus 3 courses in Canada

Player Profile: Jeff Nichols

Jeff NicholsSan Diego Aces 2009 Club President PDGA# 5530 Pro Grand Master

Began Playing Disc Golf: In 1981 I was a young man with too much time on my hands, so I joined some friends at Morley for some “Frisbee Golf”.  I was hooked instantly and started coming back every time I could.  My first aspiration to play competitively was when I saw Donny Olow park a Super Puppy on Hole 7 (now Hole 11) in its short position.  I knew at that time I wanted to play in competition.

First Disc: First golf disc was a 100 mold Midnight Flyer.

Favorite Disc: The one I’m going to throw next.

Favorite Drivers: Boss, Destroyer, TL.

Favorite Midranges: Rocs beat to various degrees, Cobra.

Favorite Putter: Super Puppy

In My Bag: Depends on the course. My usual Morley bag is: 2 Champion Boss’ 2 Star Destroyers CE Firebird Tee Bird L Sidewinder ’02 USDGC Roc KC Pro Roc Champion Cobra – super straight flyer DX Stingray Star Gator 9x KC Pro Aviar Super Puppy – sometimes carry one of my vintage ones, circ. 1984

Tourney wins and / or Top 5 finishes (not necessarily from Morley): 1990 San Diego Spring Fling – 4th place 2001 San Diego Open Pro Masters Champ Santa Maria Open – 2nd place (beat Johnny Lissaman in a playoff for the 2nd place trophy) 2004 Emerald Isle Open Pro Masters Champ 2005 Emerald Isle Open Pro Masters Champ (including a course record 1051 rated round) 2005 World Masters Flying Disc Championships – 2nd Place 2009 EIEIO – 2nd place.

Favorite Disc Golf Website: PDGA.com

Favorite Pro Player: “The Champ” – Ken Climo I had the pleasure to play with him on his home course in Clearwater, FL before he won his first Worlds.  I had met a lot of people who were very passionate about the game, but none more that him.  His skills and professionalism are unsurpassed.

Tips for newer players and players looking to improve: Beginners should learn to throw a putter or midrange disc before moving on to a driver.  I see many players who think they need to throw drivers while they could probably throw just as far with a midrange disc and retain much more control.  This is a game of control first, and only after control is mastered will distance be of any benefit.

Player Profile: Aaron Van Matre

3359666497_ddb63f99bdAaron Van MatrePDGA#: 35186 Advanced Amateur (927 rating)

Began Playing Disc Golf: Jan 2007 started playing more often and competitively....before that i was a "one disc" guy throwing thumbers mainly

First Disc: DX Firebird

Favorite Hole at Morley: #5, #10, #19

Morley Field Aces: 5 (#1D, #2B, #13E, #14B, #15C twice)

Favorite Disc: Right now it is the Pro Firebird

Favorite Drivers: Champion Wraith (165g & 172g) and Boss (Champion and Star)

Favorite Midranges: Z-Buzz & 1st run Cro

Favorite Putter: Voodoo & KC Aviar

In My Bag: Champion Monarch (172), Champion Wraith (165), Champion Wraith (172), 1st run CFR Boss (175), CFR Destroyer (175), Star Boss (167), CFR Xcaliber (175), Champion Leopard (170), CFR TL (172), Pro Firebird (172), Sparkle Tsunami (172), 2 Champion Firebirds (175), Champion Monster (175), Elite-Z Flick (169), Elite-Z Buzz (176), 1st run Star Cro (172), CFR Gator (175), Pro Pig (175), KC Pro Aviar (175g) & SS Voodoo (175).

Tourney Top 5 finishes (not necessarily from Morley): 18th - The Memorial in Scottsdale, AZ (qualified for AM Nationals) 5th - Emerald Isle Open 2nd - 2008 Halloween Classic in Scottsdale, AZ 2nd - 2008 Sun Valley Open 4th - 2008 Santa Maria Open

Favorite Disc Golf Website: discgolfersr.us, primediscs.com, pdga.com, discgolfcenter.com

Favorite Pro Player: Dave Feldberg, Nikko Locastro, & Paul McBeth

Tips for newer players and players looking to improve: Find an open field and throw! just go out and throw as often as you can. good thing about throwing in an open field is that you can see what your disc can do when you throw it with nothing in the way. because when you "learn" your discs and understand what they can do, you build confidence. and confidence on the course will translate to lower scores. also, practice your putts with purpose. putting practice will also instill confidence in your game. find twenty minutes in the day that is NOT before a round of disc golf. otherwise, you will rush through or even skip putting before playing a round.

editors note - Aaron is the player pictured on the front page of this web site

Morley Player Profile: Clark Jackson

3360486474_d709730b52Clark JacksonPDGA# 37721 Advanced

Began Playing Disc Golf: 1996 but didn't get serious till 2005.  (Now I even play in my dreams, it's an addiction)

First Disc: Cyclone (and aced with it)

Favorite Hole at Morley: Hole 3  This is my favorite hole because one I've aced it twice.  But mainly it really forced me to learn Anhyzer shorts, which are my favorite shots.  Plus when it's in the A and B position it's just a fun line drive.

Morley Field Aces: 18c, 3a (twice), 9c, 1a

Favorite Disc: Z Buzz (don't have one...get one) This disc can do anything.  Whatever line you put on it, it holds.  It's my favorite anhyzer disc.

Favorite Drivers: Champ Orc This is my go to driver, if I don't know what to throw, I throw this.  It's a little understable but very controlable.

Favorite Midranges: Z Buzz

Favorite Putter: Omega

In My Bag: Destroyer Champ and Star Wraith Z Buzz Z Wasp Gator TL Champ Z Comet Orc Z Predator

Favorite Disc Golf Website: DGCourseReview, Disc Golfers r us

Favorite Pro Player: I don't know to many of the pro's.  Mainly just the ones in SD, so...Trey (when he want to be call a Pro)  All the pro players are great!!  Especially SD pro's I've learned so much from them Micah, Miker, Kent, CVK, Carlo, Lust (never taught me a thing but...love ya the same)

Tips for newer players and players looking to improve: Just have fun, when you're having fun you play better.  Play more courses then just Morley. Practice and practice!!  and Practice more.  Think you've practiced enough, practice more.  (I need to listen to what I preach)

Morley Player Profile: Donny Olow

IMG_5008Donny OlowPDGA# 2656 Professional Masters / Open

Began Playing Disc Golf: I’ve been playing since 1976, before they had baskets and Snapper was selling discs out of the trunk of his car. 1971 We played a game called " Frisbee Bike Tag " You had to throw a frisbee at a guy riding his bike by you in the street , but you had to stay in the driveway area. Shots were about 100 feet away so no one got hurt.  If you were one of the throwers and hit the guy riding his bike past you , you had to now ride the bike , while the guy would throw at you !!   We all took turns !!!!  Lots of Fun !!!!   We also threw at Telephone poles , fire hydrants and trash cans.

First Disc: Blue Super Pro , circa 1966

Favorite Morley Field Hole: My Hardest Hole at Morley is Hole # 16 Long. My Easiest Hole at Morley is Hole # 16 Short.

Morley Field Aces: I have over 543 Hole-In Ones (Aces) in this time and hope to have more (not all at Morley). I have Aced 2 or more positions on every hole at Morley Field.

Personal Favorite Disc: First Run Original Red Candy TeeBird 174

Favorite Driver: Destroyer - DX , Star , Pro and Champion

Favorite Midrange: KC Pro Roc

Favorite Putter: 173 gram Blue  JK Pro Aviar X

Tourney wins or Top 5 finishes (not necessarily from Morley): I'm a Multiple Open Pro Morley Field Course Champion (pre Micah). I have won City , State and Out of State titles. I have not won a Pro NT or Pro Worlds title....yet.

“In My Bag”: When I Fly on the Airlines, I carry a Mini Revolution bag with Quad shocks and 14 discs. When I play Morley, La Mirada, El Dorado, Huntington Beach, etc ......  I use my Executive Ball Golf Cart by Bag Boy. I have converted it to Disc Golf standards !!! It's a Silver Avenger model with chrome wheels, no flat tires, cooler and disc carrier !!!!

Here is what it carrys for me : 174 gram Red Beat JLS for Rolling 174 gram Champion Dyed Orc 180 gram KC Pro White Roc 174 gram Champion Dyed Viking 174 gram Star Yellow Whippet 176 gram Red Squall 168 gram Star Orange Wraith 169 gram Star Destroyer ( Blue ) 167 gram White Pro Destroyer 175 gram Yellow Star Valkyrie 175 gram Yellow Champion Boss 168 gram Orange Star Boss 175 gram Champion TeeBird ( Yellow ) 175 gram Black KC Pro Aviar

My Favorite Cigar: Padron 3000 Maduro , dipped in Remy / Martin French Cognac.

Favorite Website: DiscGolfers R US  and PDGA.com

Favorite Pro Players: Marc and Ken Jarvis !!!!  Those kids are awesome and can throw a mile and don't have a attitude !!!

Tips For Other Players: Wear Comfortable Shoes with Good Grip !!! Relax !!!!!  Don't take this Sport too seriously, unless your playing for $ 1,000,000.00  You can give yourself a Migrane or worse , a stroke !!!! Start off just having Fun !!!!  Work on proper technique First , distance will come later.

Player Profile - Allen Risley "Rizbee"

slide15Allen Risleyold man, gimp, oh wise one, good lookin' PDGA#: 1752 Advanced Masters, aiming for Pro Grandmaster in 2011

Began Playing Disc Golf: Who knows?  1978 was my first time playing on baskets @ Rockledge Disc Golf Course (pay-to-play), Rockledge, FL.  Played in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, WDGC's.  Took 15 years off to raise kids and my blood pressure - glad to be back.

First Disc: Wham-O Fastback - First Golf Disc = DGA/Wham-O Midnight Flyer 40-mold

Favorite Hole at Morley: #5 - I love big, wide open hyzer shots

Morley Field Aces: Hole #16

Favorite Disc: Shuttle Puppy - I carry a 25-yr-old SP in my bag for long putts/approaches.  Don't bet against it going in.

Favorite Drivers: Sidewinder - great driver for lower-armspeed golfers like me, TeeBird - great all-around driver - very versatile - you're insane if you don't carry one.

Favorite Midranges: QMS Aurora, gummy

Favorite Putter: Discraft Putt-R - gummiest available

In My Bag: Here's my set-up for Morley: Burnt orange Revolution Team Texas Bag 150g gummy Champ Sidewinder 155g gummy Champ Valkyrie (Juliana Korver autographed) 160g Champ Sidewinder (surprisingly stable) 154g Champ Orc 157g Champ Beast (original mold) 153g Champ TeeBird (lefty ace disc) 160g Champ Starfire| 150g Champ Firebird 150g gummy Champ Leopard 150g gummy Champ Stingray 167g gummy QMS 165g Millenium Aurora 162g Star Rancho Roc (pink Baby Roc) 168g gummy Champ Rhyno 170g "Hands" Aviar 178g Discraft Sky-Streak (circa 1986) 170g Discraft X Putt'R

Tourney wins and / or Top 5 finishes (not necessarily from Morley): 1978 Florida Junior Overall Frisbee Champion numerous Open division wins/2nds/3rds over 20 years ago (I can't remember...) 2008 Chavez Ice Bowl - 1st - MM1 2008 & 2009 Redlands Ice Bowl - 1st overall 2009 Golden Sombrero Series Points Champion

Favorite Disc Golf Website: TeamRizbee.com

Favorite Pro Player: Of all time: #55 Steve Slasor Currently: Ken Climo

Tips for newer players and players looking to improve: Play your own game - not someone else's.  Don't throw max weight to prove your manhood, unless you want to see me beat you throwing 150-class.  Play the course, not your opponent or your ego.  Golf is a thinking man's game - don't forget it.  That, of course, means that many folks will never get it...

Morley Player Profile: Michael Slonim

Michael SlonimslonimPDGA# 13348 Open Master / Grandmaster

Began Playing Disc Golf: First played on a disc golf course in the late 70's at Oak Grove. I was living in New York and a friend moved to Pasadena. I came out to visit, and played the course with a 141 gram frisbee as my driver and a Superpro for the putter. I moved to Long Beach, California in 1981 and played El Dorado (before baskets - just posts with red paint on top), Huntington Beach and La Mirada. I competed in golf at the US Opens at La Mirada in the early 80's although I was primarily a freestyler. I moved to San Diego in 1986 and took up golf full time.

First Dic: Probably an 86 mold.

Favorite Hole at Morley: Like them all. If I had to pick one, I'd choose 5 in the long straight positions.

Morley Field Aces: I never counted my aces, so I'd have to say 200,000,000.

Favorite Disc: Roc

Favorite Drivers: Orc, Wraith

Favorite Midranges: Roc

Favorite Putter: JK Aviar

In My Bag: Whippet X, Pro Wraith, 2 Candy Orcs, Squall, KC Gazell, 2 Rocs, 2 JK Aviars,  Candy Beast for rollers.

Tourney wins and / or Top 5 finishes (not necessarily from Morley): I can barely remember last week. My only PDGA win was the 1994 Spring Fling at Morley, and my best finish in a supertour was a tie for 4th in Open Masters at the Memorial.

Favorite Disc Golf Website: PDGA.com, MorleyField.com

Favorite Pro Player: Me, of course (just kidding). Too many to mention - I've had loads of fun playing with people from Alaska to Florida and everywhere in between.

Tips for newer players and players looking to improve: Get a rule book and read it. Tighten up your short game. Try to be as consistant as possible. Find a putting style that works for you and practice, practice, practice. Travel and play lots of different courses. Play with players better than you. And my favorite, as anybody who knows me can attest to, play for money. Even if it's just one dollar or less, playing for money will help you focus and make you less nervous when you play tournaments.

Morley Player Profile: Angel Garcia

img_5916Angel GarciaDivision: Open baby!

Began Playing Disc Golf: 2007 -  my Uncle J was into it when ]I was younger and I wanted to play with him. the lucky Waller Open was in front of my house so I got see people playing at a young age.

First Disc: Beast

Favorite Hole at Morley: 11 - the bowl hole baby!

Morley Field Aces: 3c 10b 13 c&d 19 middle

Favorite Disc: ROC - If I had to play disc golf with one disc in my bag it would be the roc. Reliable, true, and they break in very predictably.

Favorite Driver: Force in Z plastic is my favorite driver of all time! These things just go and go.

Favorite Midrange: ROC - Will hold any line you put it on. Snapper had to force me to believe in the roc! Takes a while to get used to.

Favorite Putter: Aviar quite possibly the best disc ever made! Its my smaller ROC.

In My Bag: 2 ROCs the best midrange disc ever! 4 Aviars - 2 putters and 2 JK’S for driving! Z FORCE these things go to the moon! Champ Whippet Supper Puppy Shark Roadrunner

Tourney wins and / or Top 5 finishes (not necessarily from Morley): A few advance wins here and there! Morley and La Mirada

Favorite Disc Golf Website: Your on it

Favorite Pro Player: The Boss (Feldberg)

Tips for newer players and players looking to improve: Smack the midget! think big! have fun!