Disc Golf Companionship: The Joy of Playing Together
The Innova Valkyrie once set the world record for distance. I don’t quite understand why this disc was able to go farther than any other disc, being that it isn’t the fastest (Speed Rating of 9), and doesn’t have the most glide (Glide of just 4). I’m guessing that it set the world record simply because the guy who threw it happened to have the throw of his life combined with the right combination of wind gusts. The Valkyrie has a mild turn (-2) and a mild fade (2).
That day taught me something profound: disc golf companionship isn’t just about playing together — it’s about validating the experience. Without others to share in your triumphs (and failures), the game loses a bit of its color.
Why Golf Companionship Matters
My new friend outplayed me afterward, but I didn’t care. We laughed, competed, and exchanged good-natured jabs like real disc golfers do. Since then, I’ve made it a rule: never play alone if you can help it.
A few of us eventually started a small morning disc golf league. We called ourselves The Early Birdies — until we realized how rarely we actually made birdies. So, we became The Bogey Boyz. Then someone decided that sounded too negative, and we rebranded as The Ace Holes. It didn’t make us any better, but it made us laugh harder. Even now, we still meet occasionally to throw plastic, talk trash, and celebrate each other’s best (and worst) shots.
This is the heart of golf companionship: shared fun, competition, and mutual improvement.
How Playing With a Companion Improves Your Game
If you often find yourself playing solo, consider inviting a companion. Not only will it make your rounds more fun and engaging, but it’ll also make you a better player. You’ll push each other, share strategies, and — best of all — always have a witness when greatness strikes.
And here’s a secret: if you really want to feel amazing about your skills, play with a beginner. Every decent throw you make will seem superhuman in their eyes. You’ll inspire them, boost your confidence, and help grow the sport — one new player at a time.
Ultimately, that’s what golf companionship is about: connection, community, and confidence. I rarely, if ever, play alone anymore.
Innova Valkyrie: Disc Choice for Companionship Rounds
Nevertheless, the Valkyrie is another excellent driver created by Innova, perfect for beginners. The fault I have with it is that when I make forehand throws, it tends to come out of my hand un-level, turns over, and drifts to the left. The Valkyrie is just too understable for me to consistently throw forehand. On a flat, level field, it’s fine, but on uneven terrain, this can be tricky.
The big advantage of the Valkyrie’s understability comes into play with backhand throws. I don’t get as much snap, so it helps the disc turn into a nice S-Curve that leads to maximum distance. I’ve tried the Valkyrie in all four major plastics, but my favorite for backhand throws is Pro plastic. This plastic is the gripiest and helps me get a healthy snap on my throw.
You can buy the Innova Valkyrie here:
