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The Off-Season is HEATIN' UP...
PLUS: Forehand putter shots, your hips, and a new DDG of the week
Sean Malone
November 13, 2023
The off-season is heating up…
We’ve just seen a couple of the first contract extensions and the rumblings of some of our sports best players continues to get louder.
We anticipate a LOT of moves this year as it seems a large number of contracts are expiring.
We will keep reporting the updates to you as they come…
Starting with our beloved Matty O. There was a righteously hilarious video that dropped this week regarding “4 More Year” extension to his agreement with Westside.
Congrats Matty O!
So anxious to watch you continue to get better. You’re kinda like a fine wine - you just keep getting better with age!
Go get em!
Now let’s get into this weeks content!
Estimated read time: 7 minutes 14 seconds
THIS WEEK’S SCOOP:
Your New Secret Weapon:
“Forehand Putter Shots”?
Unlock the Secret to Forehanding Putters 🥏💥
Ever wondered why forehanding putters feels a bit off?
You’re not alone.
The quest to master a reliable sidearm with putters has been a tricky part of many disc golfers’ games.
But worry no more - we've got the secret sauce for you: the Split Grip!
You’ve probably heard of the usual suspects for overstable approach putters -
- and their reputation among flick-heavy players.
But there's an issue.
Standard putters, unlike those low-profile "tweener" putters, often feel awkward for flicks due to their taller, bulkier design.
Enter the split grip, a game-changer for your sidearm arsenal.
What’s the Split Grip?
Credit: Green Splatter
Also known as the “fan grip,” “fork grip,” or “split-finger,” the split grip is your antidote to the unstable, wobbly feeling when forehanding a putter.
It’s all about stabilizing the flight plate for a smooth, controlled flick.
How to Master the Split Grip:
Position the Disc: Hold the disc with the flight plate up, between your thumb and pointer finger.
Inner Rim Pressure: Press your middle finger firmly against the inner rim of the putter.
Fan Out: Extend your pointer finger towards the center of the disc.
Support with Remaining Fingers: Let your pinky and ring fingers rest along the outside rim.
Ready to Flick: And there you have it, the split grip in all its glory!
Is the Split Grip for You?
It’s important to note that the split grip isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.
Disc golf pro Joel Freeman, known for his sidearm skills, has expressed reservations about this grip.
However, for many players, it could be the key to expanding their forehand game beyond the usual suspects like Felons and Firebirds.
The Beauty of a Putter Sidearm:
A well-executed putter sidearm is not just easier but also more graceful than its driver counterpart.
With a split grip, you'll find it surprisingly simpler to achieve.
So, why not give it a try?
Experiment with the split grip on your next round and see how it transforms your game.
Remember, disc golf is all about finding what works best for you, and this could be your next big breakthrough!
Keep practicing, and let us know how the split grip works for you.
Here’s to more controlled, wobble-free forehands in your future rounds!
Top Forehand Putter Picks for Your Bag
THIS WEEK’s PRO TIP:
Mastering Hip Movement
Ready to take your disc golf game to the next level?
It's time to POWER UP your hips the right way!
We've got an incredible resource for you:
DG Spin Doctor's latest YouTube video
"POWER UP your HIPS the right way."
This isn't just any form advice – it's a deep dive into the nuances of hip movement that could transform your game.
The Hip Movement Debate: Right vs. Wrong
DG Spin Doctor, a seasoned expert who has dedicated years to studying disc golf, breaks down the common misconceptions about hip movement.
It's not just about rotating your hips to face the target; there's a right way and a wrong way to do it.
This video sheds light on the common mistake of pushing off the back leg – a move that ironically leads to power leakage!
The Correct Approach
The key lies in your front leg, not the back.
By bracing properly and focusing on the front leg, you achieve effective hip rotation that translates into real power.
The video offers a visual demonstration of the right technique versus the common errors, making it easy for you to spot and correct your form.
Learn from the Pros
What sets this video apart?
It features insights from an Austrian young talent, who DG Spin Doctor refers to as a "Wonder Kint" (meaning “Child Prodigy”).
Their perspective, coupled with practical demonstrations, offers a rare glimpse into the techniques used by top players.
You'll see examples of how pros like Drew Gibson approach hip rotation and the subtle nuances that make a significant difference.
Self-Check Techniques
One of the best parts of this tutorial is the self-check method.
After you throw, observe where your body goes – it tells you whether you're doing it right.
This simple yet effective technique is a game-changer for self-assessment and improvement.
Why You Need to Watch
In just over 11 minutes, this video can change the way you approach your throws:
Understand the subtleties of hip movement in disc golf.
Learn from the experiences and techniques of top players.
Visual demonstrations of the right and wrong ways to power up your hips.
Easy self-assessment techniques to improve your form.
DG Spin Doctor keeps it light and engaging, making learning fun. You'll not only gain valuable insights but also enjoy the journey of improving your game.
Ready to Transform Your Game?
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to revolutionize your hip technique.
Click the link below and dive into the world of efficient, powerful disc golf throws.
It's time to channel the power in your hips correctly and see the difference in your game!
Remember, it's not just about throwing; it's about throwing right. Let's get those hips moving the way they should!
Daily Disc Golfer Of The Week:
Alexandra von Stade - PDGA # 82809
🎉 Meet Alex von Stade: California’s Disc Golf Prodigy 🎉
Credit: PDGA
Hometown Heroine
📍 Location: Modesto, California
🥏 Classification: Professional
📅 Member Since: 2016
🔥 Current Rating: 910 (as of 12-Sep-2023)
🏆 Career Wins: 21 out of 54 Events
The World Finals Ace
During this year's prestigious World Finals, Alex achieved a remarkable feat that grabbed the attention of the PDGA and disc golf fans worldwide.
With precision and flair, she aced hole #15 at Brewster Ridge, showcasing her incredible skill and confirming her status as a player to watch!
A Journey of Dedication
Since becoming a PDGA member in 2016, Alex has shown a meteoric rise in the sport.
With 21 career wins under her belt, she's not just playing the game; she's dominating it.
Her journey is a testament to hard work, passion, and a deep love for disc golf.
Alex's Home Turf
While Alex has made a name for herself on various courses, there's something special about playing at home.
Modesto, California, has been not just a backdrop but a significant part of her disc golf story.
It's where she hones her skills and where she returns to celebrate her victories.
What's Next for Alex?
With a current rating of 910 and climbing, the sky's the limit for this California star.
Her eyes are set on bigger wins and more awe-inspiring aces.
The disc golf community eagerly anticipates what she will bring to the course next.
Celebrate the Achievements
Let’s give a huge round of applause to Alex von Stade for her remarkable accomplishments and her contribution to the sport of disc golf.
Here's to many more victories and incredible moments on the course!
Stay tuned for more stories and highlights from the exciting world of disc golf.
Who knows, our next "Daily Disc Golfer of the Week" could be you!
Keep throwing and growing,
-sean 🔥🕺
P.S. Help grow the sport, forward this onto a friend who plays, or is someone you feel should learn about our sport so it can positively impact their life as it has yours!! 😉👍 (it takes less than 30 seconds, do it right now!)
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