Miles Bennett
Foot golf is far from gone. In fact, it's been growing in popularity since its inception in 2008. The sport, which combines elements of football and golf, is now played in over 16 countries worldwide, with official competitions hosted in the US and World Cup tournaments taking place in Hungary and Argentina. With the game's accessibility, ease of play, and appeal to both adults and children, it has become a popular offering at golf courses, including at Walt Disney World Golf in Orlando, Florida.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | A hybrid sport that combines elements of football and golf. |
| Gameplay | Players kick a football into a large cup in as few shots as possible. |
| Rules | Similar to golf rules, with bunkers, hazards, and 18 holes of play. Each hole has a par, and the player with the fewest shots wins. |
| Equipment | A regulation No. 5 football is used, and holes are 21-24 inches in diameter. |
| Dress Code | Classic golf-style uniform with indoor or turf football shoes. Knee-high football socks and turf football shoes are also recommended. |
| History | Created in the Netherlands in 2008 and introduced to other countries soon after. |
| Governing Bodies | Federation for International FootGolf (FIFG), American FootGolf League (AFGL), and Major League of FootGolf in the US (AFGL Tour). |
| Popularity | Played in over 16 countries with thousands of active players in the UK alone. |
| Benefits | Cheaper equipment, faster to play and learn compared to golf, and has helped struggling golf courses generate income. |
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What You'll Learn
FootGolf's popularity
FootGolf is a hybrid sport that combines elements of football and golf. Players kick a football (soccer ball) into a cup in as few shots as possible. The game is played similarly to golf, with the exception that players use their feet instead of clubs, and the ball is a football instead of a golf ball. The game is often played on golf courses, though it may also be played on specially built courses.
FootGolf was created in the Netherlands in 2008 by Bas Korsten and Michael Jansen, who loosely based it on a post-training game played by Korsten's brother, Willem Korsten, a professional footballer. In this game, players would end training sessions by kicking footballs from the training pitch back to the changing rooms in as few kicks as possible. To officially launch this new sport, in which playing on a regulation golf course is fundamental, Korsten, Jansen, and a team of colleagues set up a national and international bond and organized the first tournament.
Since its inception, FootGolf has spread to over 16 countries worldwide, including Belgium, Hungary, Argentina, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The sport has gained significant popularity, with hundreds of courses offering FootGolf in the United States by 2014. The American FootGolf League, the major league of FootGolf in the United States, was founded in 2011 and has become one of the most rapidly growing new sports in the country. The game has attracted a large number of participants, particularly among millennials, who enjoy the laid-back and social atmosphere of the sport.
The Federation for International FootGolf (FIFG) was formed in June 2012, and eight countries participated in the first FootGolf World Cup in Hungary that same month. The second FootGolf World Cup was held in Argentina in January 2016, with 230 players from 26 FIFG member countries participating. The third FootGolf World Cup took place in Morocco in 2018, demonstrating the growing international popularity of the sport.
The popularity of FootGolf has also had a positive impact on the traditional game of golf. The Professional Golfers' Association of America and the World Golf Foundation have acknowledged FootGolf's contribution to helping golf courses generate more income, and they believe it may contribute to the growth of golf itself. Additionally, FootGolf has attracted people who might not otherwise have considered playing golf, providing a pathway for newcomers to transition into the traditional game.
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The rules of FootGolf
FootGolf is a combination of soccer and golf. It is played on a golf course with 21-inch diameter cups, using a #5 size soccer ball. The rules are largely based on traditional golf rules, but the gameplay reflects the techniques and equipment used in soccer.
The game is played with minimal supervision, and players are expected to show courtesy and sportsmanship at all times. The basic aim is to kick the ball from the tee into the hole in as few shots as possible. The player furthest from the hole always kicks first. The ball must be played in a single movement—it is not legal to push the ball with the top or bottom of your foot. If your ball is obstructing another player's shot, you can temporarily lift it out of the way after marking its position. If your ball lands in a bunker, you must play it from there.
Players must wear golf-style shorts or a skirt, a collared shirt, and long socks. Footwear should be designed for AstroTurf or indoor sports, and cleats or golf shoes are not permitted. The World FootGolf Association has outlawed the technique of rolling the ball by rolling your foot over the top of it.
Along the holes, players must face designed obstacles, such as water hazards and bunkers, before getting to the green. The green is the area where the hole is placed, usually called the "Green Zone".
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Dress code for FootGolf
If you're preparing for your first FootGolf experience, it is important to check the local rules and dress code of the golf course you're headed to. While FootGolf is a combination of soccer and golf, the dress code often leans more towards traditional golf attire.
The American FootGolf League (AFGL) has promoted a "FootGolf" outfit that includes argyle knee-high socks, an Ivy Hat (or "Ben Hogan" hat), and a collared shirt. If you're not competing in a tournament, the dress code might be more relaxed. However, collared shirts and golf attire are often required, so it's best to check ahead of time.
FootGolf footwear is an important consideration as well. Most courses have a strict no cleats, stubs, or firm ground boots policy to prevent damage to the greens and fairways. The recommended footwear is turf shoes with multi-studded rubber nubs, which provide grip and prevent slipping on wet grass.
Additionally, it's a good idea to bring sunglasses, sunblock, and a camera to capture your first FootGolf experience.
For major FootGolf tournaments, like the FIFG FootGolf World Cup, uniform codes are strictly enforced to create a sense of identity and uniformity among teams. These uniforms typically include the event logo, association/federation logo, country flag, and player names. Personal or unofficial logos are not allowed.
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Countries where FootGolf is played
FootGolf is a hybrid sport that combines elements of football and golf. It was created in the Netherlands in 2008 and has since spread to over 16 countries worldwide, including:
The Netherlands
FootGolf was created in the Netherlands by Bas Korsten and Michael Jansen, who based it on a post-training game played by Korsten's brother, Willem Korsten, a professional footballer.
Belgium and Hungary
These two countries were early adopters of FootGolf, with players initially using parks before switching to golf courses. The first-ever FootGolf World Cup was held in Hungary in 2012, with eight countries participating.
Argentina
The game was introduced to Argentina in 2010, and the country hosted the second FootGolf World Cup in 2016, which saw 230 players from 26 FIFG member countries take part.
United States
FootGolf was introduced to North America through the United States in 2011. The American FootGolf League, the major league of FootGolf in the country, was founded the same year. By 2014, the game was offered at hundreds of courses across the nation. The United States has also participated in international competitions, including an annual event with Mexico that began in 2019.
United Kingdom
FootGolf was brought to the UK by Mike O'Connor, who is now the president of UK FootGolf. There are now over 10,000 active players in the country.
In addition to these countries, FootGolf has a presence in other parts of the world. The fourth FIFG FootGolf World Cup in 2023 saw nearly 1,000 professional players from 39 countries compete, indicating the sport's growing global popularity.
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The future of FootGolf
The Federation for International FootGolf (FIFG), the governing body for the sport, was established in 2012, and the first FootGolf World Cup was held in Hungary that same year. Today, the FIFG boasts 22 member nations, indicating the sport's rapid international growth. The American FootGolf League (AFGL), the major league of FootGolf in the United States, was also founded in 2011, further solidifying the sport's presence and organization.
The inclusion of FootGolf in the State Games of America and the USA Masters Games in 2020 is a significant milestone, showcasing its growing recognition as a competitive sport. Additionally, the endorsement of FootGolf by golf organizations, such as the Professional Golfers' Association of America and the World Golf Foundation, highlights its potential to revitalize struggling golf courses and promote the growth of golf itself.
To ensure the continued growth of FootGolf, attracting younger players is crucial. The sport has already found favor with junior football coaches, and its appeal to youngsters can ensure its longevity. By engaging young people and fostering their interest, FootGolf can establish a dedicated player base that will sustain the sport for years to come.
In conclusion, FootGolf has experienced remarkable growth in a short period, and its future prospects remain positive. With its accessibility, entertainment value, and international appeal, FootGolf is poised to continue its expansion and solidify its place as a recognized and enjoyable sport worldwide. The focus on youth engagement and the support from golf and football enthusiasts will be pivotal in shaping the future success and development of FootGolf.
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Frequently asked questions
No, it is not gone and is available to play at many golf courses.
Foot golf is a hybrid sport that combines elements of football and golf. Players kick a football into a large cup in as few shots as possible.
A game of 18 holes of foot golf takes around 1-1.5 hours.
The dress code for foot golf is typically golf-style clothing with indoor or turf football shoes.
Foot golf can be played at many golf courses worldwide. Some specific locations include Walt Disney World Golf in Orlando, Florida, and Green Tree Golf Course.
