JoJo Neibauer, 13, readies to throw a disc during a practice round.
JoJo (short for Josiah) Neibauer, a 13-year-old from Snohomish County, is set to make waves at the upcoming NADGT (National Amateur Disc Golf Tour) Junior Nationals Tournament in Colorado this August. The nationals will be held at two of the Denver metropolitan area’s top disc golf courses: Adams Hollow and Lower Badlands.
The NADGT is an association for disc golfers of all ages and skill levels. For JoJo, competing in the association’s mixed junior 15 and under category has contributed to his development.
JoJo’s path to the Nationals began with a standout performance at a previous NADGT event in Sumner, Washington, where he clinched the top spot in his division.
“Playing in the Junior Nationals means a lot to me,” JoJo said. “It’s an amazing chance to see how far I’ve come with hard work and practice and to make my family proud.”
Disc golf, similar to traditional golf but played with discs instead of balls and clubs, and with hung baskets instead of holes, has captivated JoJo since he first saw the sport being played on a local course. Encouraged by mentors like Brian O’Connor and Kirby Snyder, JoJo quickly fell in love with the game. As he learned and grew as a player, JoJo’s commitment never faded.
JoJo’s training is intense. He spends countless hours perfecting his game at favorite courses such as South Fork Landing (North Bend), Tall Firs (Monroe), and Kayak Point Disc Golf Resort. Access to these courses is occasionally limited, so he sharpens his skills by setting up makeshift baskets in neighborhood parks.
He joined Bok a Bok Chicken’s “Bok Squad” Disc Golf team in February and it’s given him a supportive community that further fuels his passion for the sport.
Looking ahead at his upcoming National challenge, JoJo is thankful for the opportunity to battle top-tier talent.
His journey proves that with dedication, young players like him can achieve great things in disc golf.
Fundraiser
They’re looking for some money to help fund the trip. To assist, go to
https://www.gofundme.com/f/send-jojo-to-am-disc-golf-junior-championships
