Meet Team Russell Disc Golf for 2026

January 7, 2025

First we want to thanks all our fans, friends, family, and loyal customers for their support, and who made 2025 a great sucess.

In 2026 we are exanding our team to include Competition players, Content Creators, Tournament Directors, and Juniors

We are proud to be able to support and grow along side some exceptional people who love disc golf. Each one of these people showcase a contagious love for disc golf, great appreciation for our business, kindness to others, dedication for self-improvement, and a love for the disc golf community. Each one of them have left a great impression on us, and I’m sure they do the same for their communities.

Here is our 2026 Team Russell Disc Golf, and a little bit about each member.

COMPETITION TEAM

Brandon Brown: MPO

Hello, most people know me as BB! I am 28 years old out of Knoxville, TN. I am a Security Police Officer at Y-12 National Security Complex. I have an awesome wife Allyson, and a little girl named Maeve. I have been playing disc golf for 11 years, professionally for 9. I'm currently going on my seventh season playing for Prodigy Disc. Looking forward to representing Prodigy Discs and Russell Disc golf in the 2026 season!

Support Brandon Here

Ethan Bishop: MPO

Hello I'm Ethan Bishop, most everyone calls me Bishop. I have only been playing disc golf since 2022, but it has been an incredible journey so far! Prior to starting disc golf I played soccer for 5 years at Milligan, and 2 seasons at the semi-pro level, which is kinda cool. My main goal with this sport is to get as good as possible (hopefully win a pro tour event) while keeping that joy we all had when we started playing. Sometimes that means you’ll see me throw some crazy shots because they seem like the most fun! I wouldn’t be where I am today without all of the support from sponsors, friends, and family, mainly my mom and dad, I am incredibly grateful. I am so excited to grow with the community and see where we can take the future of this sport together! I will be sponsored by Dynamic Discs in 2026!

Aleta Martin: FPO

Hey there, my name is Aleta Martin! I have been playing disc golf since 2022. My goal is to grow in the sport, and share the love of disc golf all around! I love to travel to different states for tournaments as much as possible. I love meeting new fellow disc golfers along the way! I love to encourage & uplift others in this sport for the growth of the game. Can't wait to see you all out there! LETS GO!

Jeff Blazer: MP55

Hi, my name is Jeff Blazer and I'm from Knoxville,TN I'm 55 years young and have been playing disc golf since 1992 and I fell in love with the sport immediately. I've been playing pro masters division for about 8 years now and look forward to many more. My main goals are to help grow the sport, help others who may need it and play some competitive disc golf for Team RDG. I look forward to meeting and playing with new people and hopefully making some friends on this journey.

Rodrigo Cruz: Ma1

I’ve been playing since 2017. I was skeptical the first time I played, & didn’t think it was for me. Then I threw one lucky shot forehand with a destroyer about 350. I was hooked from then on. I had to teach myself because the nearest course from me was almost a hour north and south. Since then I have helped install 3 courses in my area and introduced a lot of players to the game! I always try to help new players with advice for disc selection & playing tips. I love the game of Disc golf and am so excited to become a part of Russel Disc Golf!!

Dylan Goodwin: Ma1

My name is Dylan Goodwin, I’m from Knoxville, Tennessee. Currently going to Pellissippi state community college in Hardin Valley studying Business Administration. I’ve been playing disc golf for 5 years, and 3 of those years have been competitive years for me. I’m heading into 2026 playing my 4th year of disc golf competitively, and I’m pumped to be representing Russell disc golf with my dad on and off the course. I hope to bring the positivity, and high energy rounds with my fellow cardmates.

Austin Smith: Ma1

Hi, my name is Austin Smith, and I am currently serving as the Director of Applied Performance Science for Olympic Sports at the University of Tennessee. I also have an extensive background in strength and conditioning working in both the Professional and Collegiate sport setting. I got into disc golf back in 2021 and started playing in tournaments in 2024. Playing disc golf has been a great way to challenge myself again and get back into competition, and ultimately be apart of an awesome community of people. When I’m not playing disc golf, I love to hike and travel with my wife, son, and two dogs. My all-time favorite course is currently the Canmore Nordic Centre in Canmore, Canada. Looking forward to the 2026 year and growing with Russell Disc Golf.

Jake Tate: Ma40 & Tournament Director

Jake is from Strawberry Plains, TN, and has been playing disc golf competitively for 2 years and casually for 10+ years prior. He leads the Vets Disc Golf Club in Morristown, TN, to encourage more veterans to get involved in the sport, as well as running events to raise money in support of Veteran charities. Along with Team RDG, Jake is a Prodigy Disc Team member and avid fan of orange discs. He’s looking forward to an exciting season and continuing to grow as a player, TD, and advocate for veterans.

Shawn Smith: Ma40

I’m a 45 year old disc golfer that plays MA2 and MA40. I do unboxing videos for Hocking Hills disc golf. I’m known as the Sasquatch around Ohio. My wife ( also my caddie) and I do course clean up at local courses and any course we travel to.

I’ve been playing for about 15 years. My brother in law got me and my son interested in the game and once we had played a few holes we fell in love. My son and I play a lot of doubles tournaments together just to spend time together and have fun.

I work with boy scouts and girl scouts teaching them the game of disc golf. I volunteer with veterans disc golf of central Ohio with our disabled veterans. I’ve designed one course and helped install another. I just love the game.

Paul Willamson: Ma50 & Tournament Director

I am a 52-year-old medical professional from Huntsville, Alabama. I used to struggle with obesity and poor health. However, in 2019, my son introduced me to disc golf which has completely transformed my life for the better. Since then, I have found purpose and happiness in my life. I have managed to maintain my ideal weight for over two years now and have adopted a healthy lifestyle. As a result, I feel better than I have in the last 15 years. I am actively involved in the local disc golf community where I founded Grateful Disc Golf. Our organization is responsible for organizing up to 10 charity fundraising tournaments every year. I have served as an officer for the “Rocket City Chain Gang” disc golf club in Huntsville, Alabama for three years. Additionally, I run a putting league every winter. I am excited to see where my future disc golf adventures will take me.

Mike Goodwin: Ma50

Mike Goodwin | Tech Entrepreneur | Knoxville, TN

Hooked on disc golf since late 2022 and competing in the MA50 division. Back-to-back Tennessee State Champion (2024 & 2025).

2026 goals: Three-peat at States and chase down a World title.

I love the grind, the challenge of improving every round, and most of all—the community. Always happy to meet new folks on the course, learn from everyone, and help newer players find their groove.

Jeff Jordan: Ma50

I’m thrilled to join TEAM RDG for 2026. I’ve been playing competitive disc golf and been a PDGA member since 2002. I’m now playing in the best division in disc golf… MA50!! I enjoy playing in the biggest events against the best competitors! After 20+ years, multiple A, B, and C Tier event wins, I’m still chasing a major title, which is a dream of mine and keeps me motivated. As much as I love disc golf, Faith & Family are highly important and come first in my life. Thankful for the life Christ has granted me! Thankful for my wife, Stephanie, who lets me travel to play this amazing sport! Thankful for my two college kids, Madison & Connor, who are doing their own amazing things! Excited to see what 2026 brings!

Chuck Brunke: Ma60

Hey there. I’m 60 years old and have been playing disc golf for over 13 years. My Wife, LeighAnne and I moved to NE Tennessee from Florida in August of 2024. She is also a disc golfer. I love playing in the mountains! From the moment I first threw a disc, I knew that this was something I wanted to do for the rest of my life. If you see me at a tournament or just playing a casual round, come up and say hi. I love talking disc golf. See you on the course!

Michael Green: Ma2

Hello, my name is Michael Green. I started playing disc golf in June 2020 as a way to stay active, and it quickly grew into a true passion. I favor woods golf and hitting lines over wide-open distance. Disc golf gives me the exercise I want and the community I value, whether I’m playing tournaments or casual rounds. I aim to be approachable, supportive, and a good representative of the sport, and I’m proud to represent Team RDG on and off the course.

Brandon Nobles: Ma2

My name is Brandon Nobles. I am an avid disc golf tournament player & tournament director who has called the Knoxville area home since 2023. After quickly falling in love with the local disc golf community, I began directing tournaments in 2025 as a way to give back to the players and community who welcomed me and helped me grow when I was new to the city.

I am a proud father of one little boy, with a little girl on the way in early 2026. I have been a member of the Prodigy Street team since 2024 and am always happy to meet new people. If you see me on the course, feel free to say hi or join me for a round!

Derian Lopez: Ma2

My name is Derian Cruz Lopez. I am 28 years old and originally from Veracruz, Mexico. I have been playing disc golf for the past three years and currently hold a player rating of 906. I have loved meeting new people and sharing meaningful moments with fellow disc golfers. I hope to continue growing the community and to show others what a great sport disc golf truly is.

Gladis Rodriguez

My name is Gladis Rodriguez, and I am 25 years old. I have been playing disc golf for almost three years, and in that time, it has become so much more than just a sport to me. Disc golf has given me the opportunity to meet incredible people, travel to new places, and be part of a welcoming and supportive community.

This sport has helped me grow both mentally and physically, especially during times when I needed an outlet the most. It has taught me patience, confidence, and perseverance, and I am truly grateful for the positive impact it has had on my life. Being able to help grow the sport—especially for women—means a great deal to me. I am excited to continue this journey, inspire others, and see what the future holds for women in disc golf.

David Downing: Ma3/Ma55

Hello, my name is Dave Downing and I just retired a year ago! I worked as a 6th grade math teacher, basketball and volleyball coach in Illinois for 34 years. My wife and I built our dream home in Vonore and moved there last November. I have 2 sons who both still live in Illinois. I have played disc golf since I was making up courses at my house in the 1970s. Recently I have taken it more seriously and took a full day class from Scott Stokely, where I learned a ton. My goal is to help put in a course at Vonore Veterans Memorial Park, and also start some high school disc golf clubs in the area. I am excited to join Russell Disc Golf and help expand disc golf in Tennessee!

Mitchell Kitts: Ma3 & Content Creator

Content Creators

Bear Bite Disc

Jesse is the founder of Bear Bite Disc, a content brand he’s been building since 2020. A familiar face in the disc golf scene, Jesse is currently documenting a massive 150lb weight loss transformation alongside his daily disc golf grind. He’s a big believer in the "treasure hunt" of finding absolute gems in the used bins, making him a perfect fit for the Russell Disc Golf family.

LinkTree

Support-a-Bear

Hitting Chains

Hey! We’re Adam and Jake, the creators of Hitting Chains. What started as a way to share our love of disc golf while playing rounds with friends has grown into something much bigger: a passion for building community, creating entertaining content, and helping grow the sport we love through that content.

Over the years, Hitting Chains has become deeply rooted in the local disc golf scene. We’ve had the opportunity as disc golf content creators to highlight courses, discs, and local players, while also stepping into the role of event organizers by hosting doubles, glow rounds, and special community events. Our focus has always been simple, to make disc golf fun, welcoming, and accessible to everyone.

Being part of Team Russell Disc Golf is a natural extension of that mission. We’re proud to represent a team that values growth, connection, and the love of the game. At the end of the day, we’re just two guys who love throwing discs, telling stories, and helping build something bigger than ourselves one chain hit at a time.

Be sure to follow us on our socials here.

Courtesy Violation Podcast

The Courtesy Violation Disc Golf Podcast is where disc golf culture meets unfiltered conversation. Hosted by Josh Gibbs, Trever Bowers, and Josh McCulley, expect honest opinions, plenty of laughs, and just enough chaos to earn a warning… or two.

Whether you’re just here for the stories, disc golf coverage, or outright ludicrousness, Courtesy Violation keeps it real, keeps it local, and always calls it like it lies.

Hosted by disc golfers who know the rules and still choose violence, the show dives headfirst into tournament nonsense, questionable decisions, and the kind of disc golf moments you only hear about after the round. If you love hot takes, trash talk, and laughing at the pain of others (including the hosts), you’re in the right place. Our goal is to keep you informed on weekly disc golf and help grow the sport.

No warnings. No mulligans. Just vibes, grip-locks, and pure disc golf degeneracy.
We are The Courtesy Violation Podcast. LinkTree Here

Hyzer Flip 777

Hey I'm James Calvert. I've been playing disc golf for over 3 years and have been making disc golf content for 2 years now. My mother got me into disc golf to keep me in a good mental space, and I found myself in the sport. My goal is to share the best parts of disc golf, and reach out to other's who want to learn and grow the sport. Follow Here

Chase Woods

Hey I’m Chase! I’m 27 years young, raised in Halls, and absolutely love to fling plastic in the woods. One of my favorite aspects of the game is meeting new people to throw with. Disc Golf has an amazing community, especially Knoxville, and it’s a great way to build relationships doing something you love. My favorite course to throw at is Tommy Schumpert and my all time go to disc is the Kastaplast Berg but all my friends know I mostly throw first run minty Kasta.

I’ve been playing since 2013 when my cousin introduced me to the sport but I really got into it in 2020 like most. Come throw a round with me! Follow

Decent Disc Golf

Hello there, my name is Pearce Coffield! I am 35 years old and live in Knoxville, TN. I started playing disc golf in 2021 and I’ve been hooked ever since. I’m a husband to the most wonderful wife and the proud father of two rowdy and amazing sons. I currently work in the IT Department at Amazon. Disc golf has become a huge passion of mine- not just playing but creating disc golf content and building connections within the community. My goal is to help create an atmosphere of learning and creativity, where players of all skill levels can grow, have fun, and feel welcome on and off the course! I am beyond stoked to be contributing to the content creation for Team Russell Disc Golf in 2026 and I look forward to what this year will bring. May the trees be ever in your favor!

Youtube

Instagram

Tower Disc Golf

Hello everyone, I’m Tyler Moore with Tower Disc Golf. I started playing disc golf 4 years ago after a good friend introduced me to the sport, and I’ve been enamored ever since. This past year, I chose to fully immerse myself in the sport and get more involved in the local community. That commitment led me deeper into content creation, as disc golf has given me an outlet to fully express myself. My personal goals for the upcoming season are to produce motivational, helpful, and fun content while continuing to improve and refine my game. I’m heading into my second season representing Goliath Discs, a faith based company in Iowa. I’m super excited to be representing Goliath Discs and Russell Disc Golf in the 2026 season!

Follow TickTok

Tournament Directors

Melissa Henley

My name is Melissa Henley. I started playing disc golf during covid with my husband. Our first time playing with other people was a doubles at admiral in 2023. That is what lit the fire and passion for the sport. Powell Station DGC kinda grew to become my home course and doubles events. At the start of the 2025 season, I saw an opportunity and I volunteered to start running dubs at Powell Station on Friday nights. In 2025 I hosted a doubles event, I was able to play several sanctioned and unsanctioned events, and I was able to watch the pros play at the Music City Open and Idlewild. For 2026, I am looking forward to another season of hosting dubs at Powell Station on Friday nights and seeing what else this great sport brings.

Chris Dowell: Iron Sharpens Iron DG

Chris Dowell is a Husband and Father that has been playing Disc Golf for about 18 months. Disc Golf has changed his life in so many positive ways. It has been the vehicle to lose over a 100lbs, he has met some of his best friends which then formed the Charity Iron Sharpens Iron Disc Golf linked Below, and rekindled his passion for both putting competitions and playing in them. While he went up nearly a 100points in ratings and a was one of the TD’s of the Year from Power Disc Academy he is just getting started. He is primed and look for Instatram an amazing 2026. Facebook

John Bolster: Gratefull Disc Golf

My name is John Bolster. I am a 50-year-old retired Army veteran, a devoted husband, and the proud father of three daughters. I discovered disc golf five years ago and often wish I had found the sport decades earlier.
I am an active member of my local disc golf community and have served as a club officer for the past three years. I currently work with Grateful Disc Golf to help raise charitable funds for both local and national causes. The support we receive for these events is inspiring and rewarding, making the effort truly worthwhile.
I look forward to the upcoming season and am excited to see what opportunities it will bring.

Russell Disc Golf Junior Team Mission Statement

At Russell Disc Golf, we are committed to fostering the next generation of disc golfers by supporting and developing junior players in East Tennessee. Our mission is to grow the sport at the grassroots level, providing young athletes with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities needed to compete, improve, and thrive in the sport.

Through our Russell Disc Golf Junior Team, we aim to:

Promote youth participation in disc golf across East Tennessee.
Provide team members with training, equipment, and tournament support.
Encourage sportsmanship, growth, and community involvement.
Help our juniors qualify for and compete at the PDGA Junior World Championships.

By investing in the future of disc golf, we strive to build a positive, competitive, and supportive environment where young players can hone their skills, gain experience, and represent East Tennessee at the highest level.

Together, we are not just growing a team—we are growing the future of disc golf. 🥏💙 #GrowTheSport

Josiah Barlow: Ma1/MJ18

Hello, I'm Josiah Barlow from Kodak, Tennessee. I'm currently trying to get on the Disc Golf Pro Tour, as well as be a great sportsman! I'm very excited to do my best & show my skills with Russell Disc Golf for the 2026 season!

Cooper Douglas: Ma2/MJ18

As the eldest of the three brothers, Cooper takes pride in teaching his siblings while simultaneously "shredding" the course alongside them. Cooper loves to bomb,he secured a distance competition win with a massive 538-foot throw and placed 8th globally in the Junior Worlds Distance competition. Whether he’s practice putting or out hunting with his dad and brothers, Cooper is always honing his craft. When the discs are put away, you’ll likely find him with a pencil in hand, working on his latest art project or YouTube video. TriStarTrio Instagram

Arial Longsbourgh: FJ15

Hi, my name is Arial Loshbough I am 15 years old and from the Pikeville TN area. I started playing disc golf in February of 2025. My grandfather introduced me to the sport and I fell in love! I play any tournaments I can and I love playing them. I am extremely excited and grateful for this opportunity and cannot wait to see how far I can go in this sport!!

Devin Burrow: MJ15

Hello, my name is Devin Burrow and I'm from Harrison, Tennessee. I am currently a freshman at STEM School Chattanooga. I've been playing disc golf consistently for about a year now. However, I would play around sometimes with my dad since I was littile. I play weekly doubles matches, local league events, and 1-2 solo rounds a week. I've played 11 sanctioned tournaments in 2025 and hope to keep this up in 2026.

Brady Kitts: Ma4/MJ15

My name is Brady Kitts. I am a 15-year-old out of Knoxville, Tennessee. I’m a sophomore at Farragut High, and I’ve been playing disc golf since I was four. I started playing tournaments in 2024, and I’ve been hooked ever since. I love creating content on Instagram with my dad and competing in tournaments. DG Content Here

Lincoln Douglas: Ma3/MJ15

Lincoln took up the game at age 9 and has since made a name for himself as a powerful "lefty" specialist who loves nothing more than a long drive. His competitive resume includes multiple wins with his favorite beings a 1st place finish at the Appalachian Amateur Championships, a win at Spike Hyzer’s Tim & Donna’s Wedding Extravaganza,a 2nd place finish with his partner at the Cross State Doubles Championships and two Knoxville Junior Championship titles. Off the course, Lincoln is an avid hunter and artist who spends his free time gaming and dreaming of his next tee time.

TriStarTrio Instagram

Tripp Cook: MJ12

Hello my name is Tripp Cook! I am 11 years old. My dad and I are “like Father Like Son DG” on social media platforms! I have been playing Disc Golf for about 4 years. I look forward to competing in several tournaments in the 2026 season. I am beyond excited to represent “Team Russle DG”

Kelton Vincil: MJ12

Hello, my name is Kelton Vincil PDGA#278364. I'm from Lenoir City Tennessee and 11 years old. I've been playing for four years with my dad. Currently, we have been playing casual and posting on social media. For 2026, my goals are to start playing tournaments and build up my ranking. I feel like being apart of team RDG will help me reach my goals.

Westley Douglas: MA3/MJ12

Westley’s passion for disc golf began at just 8 years old, and he has quickly become a formidable force on the course. His 2025 season was highlighted by a 1st place finish in Junior Worlds Doubles, 7th place in the Junior Worlds singles, and a 2nd place finish at the Tennessee State Championships. When he isn’t practicing every chance he gets or playing rounds with his two older brothers, Westley stays creative through drawing, building Legos, mastering puzzles, and playing video games.

Instagram:TriStarTrioDG

Bentley Harris: MJ12

Hi I’m Bentley Harris, I’m 11 years old and started playing disc golf in 2022. I just started competing in tournaments this past year and really enjoy the sport. My goal is to one day become a pro and be apart of helping grow the sport. I’m thankful to be a part of Russell Disc Golf and looking forward to seeing what 2026 brings.

Jack Malone: MJ08

Jack Malone is a 7-year-old from Powell, TN who’s been playing disc golf since he could walk. You’ll usually find him throwing discs in the backyard with his dad or playing his favorite courses—Powell Station, Tommy Schumpert, and Inskip. His favorite disc is the Leopard 3, and he loves watching the pros, especially Gannon Buhr. Jack’s favorite part of disc golf is having fun with friends and competing, and this year he’s working on his backhand and hoping to win a few tournaments as part of the Russell Disc Golf Team!

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1 comment

Hi russel I was wondering where I could sign up to get sponsored?

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