The 2013 National Team Challenge tees off tomorrow (Saturday August, 31) at the International Disc Golf Center in Appling, Ga. The event is open for any team around the nation to join, and it gives everyone a competitive format to define the 2013 National Team Champion. Above all, it grants bragging rights to the victor until next year.

This young event stands only in its second year on the tour schedule but packs a great experience into two days. It also provides the country with a great structured competitive system to base future team events on. Tournament Director Jason Allind is hoping this format catches on and possible growth will be seen nationwide.

“In the future we would like to see a series of team events around the country that qualify teams for this event,” Allind said. 

The NTC utilizes every player on the team and creates an atmosphere where team selection is of the utmost importance. This selection can be tough since there is a standard set of guidelines and restrictions for this specific event. 

Allind has placed a ratings cap on the teams to encourage a variance of skill in each round. No team is allowed to have a total rating above 3760 at the time of registration. This creates an equal rating spread in the field which should generate an equal playing field. 

The NTC consists of four rounds of varied formats taking place on all three of the IDGC courses throughout the weekend. They are different each round to generate a complete team participation in order to achieve victory. Teams will participate in individual stroke play, individual match play, best shot doubles, and team best/alternate shot doubles. Allind has put a very specific set of rules and guidelines for each of these formats on the event website.

With the success of the previous year’s event Allind is pleased to have this event back for its second year. 

“This event is quickly becoming the best tournament at the IDGC. I really believe team tournaments are the way of the disc golf future,” Allind said.

The event registration is closed online, but any team wishing to still register can sign up in person at the center tomorrow. We currently have 12 teams registered and ready to play for the 2013 National Team Champion bragging rights. Team Hippo is returning this year to defend their 2012 title. Will the local boys hold it down or will an out of town team swipe Hippo’s hopes away?

Camping is available in Wildwood Park for $20 per night. This rate includes two vehicles and up to 12 people per site. The park asks that campers call and reserve spots to guarantee their space. Be sure to bring a swimsuit, some bug spray, and an appetite for a good time.