Footgolf Finds New Home in Nebraska After Thriving for a Decade

At Lincoln's Golf Course, the distinctive sound of golf clubs striking balls is usually the only noise breaking the tranquility. But on one weekend each summer, the atmosphere changes. The thwack of drivers and the clink of putters are replaced by the sound of soccer balls being kicked towards large-diameter holes at the Jim Ager Memorial Golf Course.

This change occurs when the unique sport called footgolf takes over part of the course for the Cornhusker State Games.

For many Nebraskans, the state's largest amateur sports festival is typically synonymous with classic Olympic-style events like Wrestling or track and field. 

However, in recent years, footgolf has emerged as a different flavor, a blend of soccer and golf that is increasingly finding its place in the competition.

Footgolf combines the ball-kicking techniques of soccer with the concept of putting a ball into a hole like golf.

In Nebraska, the sport was first introduced at the Cornhusker State Games about a decade ago. Although it appears relaxed, the sport has its own set of rules.

As the Cornhusker State Games expanded its reach across Nebraska, footgolf gradually evolved from a local novelty into a competitive sport for amateur athletes.

For Mark Purkoski, the event's footgolf director, the journey to that position wasn't the result of a formal selection process, but rather born from a love of the sport.

Purkoski said he approached the Nebraska Sports Council around ten years ago. At that time, he proposed including footgolf in the list of sports. The proposal received a positive response.

Although the number of participants hasn't seen a massive surge like other sports phenomena, such as the pickleball trend, footgolf maintains a loyal community. Typically, around 20 players regularly participate each year in the Cornhusker State Games.

But for Purkoski, the measure of success isn't always about participant numbers.

“I consider it a success when a player comes back to play again, because that means they must have enjoyed their playing experience,” he said. 

First Developed in the Netherlands 

Footgolf's journey began far from Nebraska. Although the concept of kicking a ball into a hole has existed for a long time, modern Footgolf first developed in the Netherlands in the late 2000s.

The sport then spread to the United States around 2011 before eventually reaching the Midwest, including Nebraska. 

Existing golf courses made the sport easy to integrate without the need to build new facilities.

Its appeal is also simple. Anyone can play without needing expensive equipment or special training.

The sport doesn't require a set of golf clubs costing hundreds of dollars. With just athletic shoes and a standard-sized soccer ball, someone can experience playing on a golf course in a different way.

Jim Ager Golf Course as the Main Base 

Footgolf in Lincoln is most vibrant at the Jim Ager Golf Course, which serves as the primary base for hosting this sport. 

The nine-hole course is considered highly suitable for footgolf because it allows for the installation of the 21-inch diameter holes required for the game.

Course staff must maintain a unique balance. Greens still need to be smooth for golf balls, while fairways must also be ready to withstand the impact of soccer ball kicks.

According to former Cornhusker State Games Footgolf Athlete Mikah Mather, the course design is one reason why the competition feels engaging.

“The holes aren't too long,” said Mikah. 

“Shorter holes are actually more fun because they require more skill, not just the ability to kick the ball as far as possible.”

Behind the relaxed atmosphere, Purkoski ensures the game's rules are well enforced. 

He often walks alongside junior division participants to record scores and ensure matches proceed according to regulations.

Meanwhile, senior players are typically trusted to maintain Sportsmanship during play.

Simplicity is the Appeal 

For many players, the appeal of footgolf lies precisely in its simplicity – the chance to stay active in sports without high pressure.

This is felt by Erika Mather, who previously played competitive basketball and soccer.

“It used to feel much more intense because I played on club teams, whereas this is just for fun and relaxation,” said Erika. 

“Footgolf has always been a fun and relaxing way to exercise and get out of the house.”

Erika even won a footgolf Gold Medal at the 2023 Cornhusker State Games. For her, the sport is easy for anyone to play without requiring complex technical skills.

“It’s truly a game anyone can play,” she said. 

“It doesn’t matter how long it takes you. Many people say golf can ruin a nice leisurely walk, but footgolf doesn’t ruin that walk.”

Footgolf may never rival the popularity of sports like volleyball or wrestling in terms of participant numbers. 

But at the Cornhusker State Games, this unique sport has found its own niche, as a relaxed blend of competition, fitness, and fun.(nebraskanewsservice.net)