Footgolf is a fun, exciting sport that combines the precision of golf with the energy of soccer. It’s a game where players kick a regulation #5 soccer ball into a large cup (21–22 inches in diameter) on a golf course, aiming to complete each hole in as few kicks as possible. Think of it as golf, but instead of swinging a club, you’re kicking a soccer ball! It’s easy to learn, requires minimal equipment, and is great for people of all ages and skill levels, from kids to adults. Whether you’re a soccer fan, a golf enthusiast, or just looking for a new outdoor activity, footgolf offers a unique way to have fun, stay active, and enjoy some friendly competition.
What Is Footgolf?
Footgolf is played on a golf course or a specially designed footgolf course, using the same basic structure as golf. Players start at a tee box, kick the ball toward a hole, and navigate obstacles like bunkers, water hazards, and trees. The holes are shorter than in traditional golf, typically designed for par 3, 4, or 5, and the cups are much larger to accommodate the soccer ball. The goal is to get the ball into the hole with the fewest kicks, just like getting a golf ball into the hole with the fewest swings.
The sport was created in the Netherlands in 2008 by Bas Korsten and Michael Jansen, inspired by a casual game played by professional soccer players. It spread quickly, reaching the United States in 2011 through the American FootGolf League (AFGL), which is the main governing body for the sport in the U.S.. Today, footgolf is played in over 50 countries, with hundreds of courses worldwide, and it’s one of the fastest-growing sports globally.
Key Rules of Footgolf
The rules of footgolf are similar to golf but adapted for kicking a soccer ball. Here are the basics, based on the Federation for International FootGolf (FIFG) and AFGL guidelines:
- Tee Off: Kick the ball from the tee box, up to 2 meters (6 feet) behind the tee markers. The ball must be kicked in one motion, not pushed or scooped.
- Order of Play: The player farthest from the hole kicks first. After each hole, the player with the best score on the previous hole goes first.
- Fairway Play: Play the ball where it lies, unless it interferes with another player’s shot. You can mark and lift your ball if it’s in someone’s way.
- Hazards: If your ball lands in a water hazard, you can retrieve it and drop it within 2 steps of where it entered (with a one-stroke penalty) or replay from the previous spot (also a one-stroke penalty). Out-of-bounds balls get a one-stroke penalty and are placed within 2 steps of where they crossed the boundary.
- Green Zone: On the green, you can mark and clean your ball. When “putting,” use your toe or instep, not the sole of your foot.
- Scoring: Keep track of kicks on a scorecard, just like golf. The player with the fewest kicks wins.
Footgolf relies on player integrity, with no referees, so honesty and sportsmanship are key. The dress code for casual play is relaxed, but for AFGL-sanctioned events, players wear collared shirts, golf shorts or pants, knee-high socks (often argyle), and indoor soccer shoes or sneakers—no cleats allowed.
Why Play Footgolf?
Footgolf is popular because it’s accessible and fun. You don’t need prior experience in soccer or golf, just the ability to kick a ball. It’s a great way to:
- Get exercise while enjoying the outdoors.
- Bond with friends, family, or coworkers.
- Try something new without needing expensive equipment (just a soccer ball and sturdy shoes).
- Play competitively or casually, depending on your mood.
Plus, it’s affordable—many courses charge $8–$15 for 9 or 18 holes, and some provide soccer balls if you don’t have one.
Where Can You Play Footgolf Near You?
Footgolf courses are popping up all over the United States and beyond, often integrated into existing golf courses. The AFGL reports over 500 courses across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, with around 10,000 players booking tee times monthly. Since I don’t have your location, I’ll explain how to find a course near you and highlight a few examples of popular footgolf venues.
How to Find a Footgolf Course
- Check the American FootGolf League Website: The AFGL (www.footgolfusa.org or www.usafootgolf.org) has a map of certified footgolf courses in the U.S. You can search by state or zip code to find one close to you.
- Visit Footgolf.net: This site also lists courses across the U.S. and internationally. If you know of a course not listed, you can contact them at USA@FOOTGOLF.NET to update their map.
- Call Local Golf Courses: Many golf courses offer footgolf alongside traditional golf, especially in the afternoon or on specific days. Call nearby courses to ask if they have a footgolf setup.
- Search Online: Use terms like “footgolf near me” on Google or check social media for local events. Posts on X, like those from LimerickCouncil about Rathbane Golf Course, show how courses promote footgolf events.
Popular Footgolf Courses in the U.S.
Here are some notable courses to give you an idea of where footgolf is played. You can check if these are near you or use them as inspiration to find similar venues:
- Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course (Orlando, FL): A 9-hole AFGL-certified course, perfect for families. It’s 1,240 yards with a par of 35, and tee times are available after 3:00 PM (seasonal). Call (407) WDW-GOLF to book. You can bring your own soccer ball or use one provided.
- White Plains Golf Course (Charles County, MD): Offers 18 holes within the front nine of a traditional golf course. It’s designed for simultaneous golf and footgolf play, with tee times available after noon. Call (301) 645-1300 to reserve.
- Haggin Oaks (Sacramento, CA): Features an 18-hole footgolf course with affordable rates. Book tee times up to 30 days in advance at (916) 808-2525.
- Fox Hills Golf & Banquet Center (Michigan): An AFGL-accredited 18-hole course with a relaxed dress code for casual players. No cleats allowed, but tennis shoes work fine.
- Meadowbrook Park Golf Course (Arlington, TX): A certified course with a par of 70, offering a mix of short and long holes. Book tee times at (817) 275-0221.
- Stonebridge Golf Club (Rome, GA): Near Atlanta, this AFGL-sanctioned course is great for players within 150 miles. Call (706) 236-5046 to book.
International Footgolf
If you’re outside the U.S., footgolf is played in nearly 50 countries. For example, in the UK, try Storws Wen in Wales or Tudor Park in London. In Ireland, Rathbane Golf Course in Limerick hosts footgolf events, as announced on X. Check www.footgolffrenzy.com for UK courses or www.footgolf.net for global options.
Tips for Your First Footgolf Game
- Bring a Soccer Ball: A regulation #5 soccer ball is required, but many courses provide one if you don’t have your own.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Indoor soccer shoes, turf shoes, or sneakers are best. Avoid cleats, as they’re banned on most courses.
- Dress Appropriately: Casual athletic wear is fine for fun games, but collared shirts and knee-high socks are recommended for tournaments.
- Book a Tee Time: Call ahead or book online to secure your spot, especially at courses that mix golf and footgolf.
- Learn the Etiquette: Respect other players, keep up with the group ahead, and avoid walking on golf greens with soccer shoes.
- Have Fun: Focus on enjoying the game, not just winning. Try watching professional footgolfers online for tips on kicking techniques.
Why Footgolf Is Worth Trying
Footgolf is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors, stay active, and try something new. It’s saved many golf courses from closing by bringing in new players, and even pro golfers like Paula Creamer have praised its fun vibe. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a team-building event, or a casual day with friends, footgolf is a low-cost, low-pressure sport that anyone can enjoy.
To find a course near you, start with the AFGL website (www.footgolfusa.org) or contact local golf courses. Get out there, kick a ball, and discover why footgolf is called “The Best Game Ever Invented”
