What’s up, DiscGenerates? We’re back with another This Week in Disc Golf. I’m Swiss Cheese, the one with all the holes, and one-half of the uncle-nephew duo known as the Disc Golf World. We’re here to break down the latest PDGA rule changes, Nate Heinold’s announcement, and Latt’s extended time off. Plus, we’ll cover some of the Ledgestone Open and quick hitters from around the tour.
PDGA Rule Changes for 2025
The PDGA approved five major rule changes that will go into effect next year. Some are clarifications, while others are big shifts in how the game will be played and officiated. Let’s break them down:
Thrower’s Role in Calls
One proposal was to remove the thrower from making rulings. After backlash, the PDGA adjusted the language, now allowing the thrower to give a short opinion but barring them from lobbying or arguing. The result? A gray area that could create more confusion rather than less.
Shot Clock Extended
The infamous 30-second shot clock has been extended to 45 seconds when on the fairway, off the tee, or on the putting green. Gannon Buhr stopwatch fans, take note.
Warnings & Enforcement
The PDGA is testing whether player-issued warnings will stick. Some pros, like Brodie Smith, argue enforcement should be left to TDs and marshals. Others, like Juliana Korver, think this new system may actually increase accountability. Time will tell if this rule actually results in more calls.
Scorekeeping Requirement
Players are now required to keep and show scorecards when requested. Refusal could result in disqualification.
Team Play Codified
The PDGA has officially outlined college team play rules. By splitting formats into sections, they hope to encourage more TDs to host team events in the future.
Nate Heinold Will Not Seek Reelection
In a surprise-but-not-surprise announcement, PDGA President Nate Heinold confirmed he will not seek reelection. Speaking on multiple podcasts, Heinold stated:
“This is my last year on the board. I could run one more term, but I’m done.”
Love him or hate him, Heinold has been a polarizing figure in disc golf. His nine-year run included:
- Modernizing the PDGA with tech tools and TD support
- Overseeing Worlds and Majors contracts
- Guiding the PDGA through the COVID boom
- Handling the trans inclusion policy
He’ll finish his third term in September 2026, leaving behind both accomplishments and controversies. His departure sets up a critical PDGA board election in 2025.
Kristin Latt Taking Extended Break
After shocking fans by dropping out of Worlds, Kristin Latt has officially announced she will be taking an extended break from the tour. In her own words:
“I’ll be taking a step back from the hustle. My goal is to return for Throw Pink and the DGPT Championship. It’s time to rest, heal, and regain strength.”
This means she will miss five events, including two playoff tournaments and Ledgestone, the season’s highest payout. With her contract year ending, the break raises questions about future sponsorships with House of Disc or other brands. That said, her popularity, European marketability, and proven dominance mean she’ll remain one of the sport’s most valuable players.
Ledgestone & Quick Hitters
- Everyone on feature card advanced to lead card at Ledgestone MPO.
- Anthony Barela shot the hot round despite mid-putt distractions (thanks, Moonshine Bandit “fans”).
- AB also dropped a new jersey.
- Haley King’s putting woes had her jokingly hoping someone caught it on coverage.
- Garrett & Jessica Gurthie tied the knot — congrats to the Gurthies!
- Cale Leiviska extended his streak to 20 straight years with a win at A-Tier or higher.
Meanwhile, Heinold promised 2026 World Championship infrastructure will be bigger than ever: glass atriums, stadium seating, double-decker hospitality tents — the works. Worlds in Milford, Michigan will raise the bar yet again.
Final Thoughts
Between PDGA rule changes 2025, Heinold stepping away, and Kristin Latts extended break, this has been one of the most impactful weeks in disc golf news all year. As always, we’ll be at Ledgestone this weekend — with merch, stamped Wizards, and maybe some questionable humor. Stop by Fly Mart or find us on the course.
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