College's new disc golf course honors former trustee Mark Bradley

by Tom Perry

Marietta, OH (12/18/2023) — As he explored the groupings of trees and open green spaces of Marietta College's campus during his first semester, Joshua Radloff '25 saw endless possibilities. One idea resonated the most - what if there was a disc golf course weaving through the campus grounds?

Radloff began to envision baskets tucked into wooded areas and tee pads set up on open fields, turning the campus into an ideal setting for disc golfers. Radloff set out on a mission to share his vision and make it a reality.

"I noticed that there was enough space for a course on this campus. In the spring of 2022, I created the Marietta College Disc Golf Club (MCDGC)," says the Milford, Ohio, native. "After seeing my brother play for his college's disc golf team, I knew I wanted to make my own. The best way that I saw to do this was to first make a convenient place for people to play on campus."

He presented his idea to multiple groups on campus, but the most important presentation was when he spoke to the President's Cabinet.

"I was just patiently waiting to hear back about a donor. After waiting for a year, I was afraid this would never happen," says Radloff, a Mathematics major. "I later learned they found a donor and used my original design to create a new layout. Finally, after two years of work, this course will finally become a reality."

The idea resonated with MC Trustee Andrew Ferguson '95 and he was looking for a way to honor his friend - former Trustee Mark Bradley, who died in 2022 at the age of 52 - so he donated the money for the 9-hole course.

"Some donors to the College approach giving in a unique way - they request that we call them for funding when we have a specific need that would benefit students and engage alumni at the same time," says Dr. Josh Jacobs, Vice President for Advancement. "This project, having been proposed by a student, benefits the campus and provides a place for alumni, students, and community members to interact together. I think it fits perfectly at Marietta."

Appalachian Disc Golf in Vienna, West Virginia, installed the course, which was dedicated at homecoming. It also helped brand the tee pads and baskets.

"I am relieved because I never thought that this would ever happen. I want this course to be successful and fun for all," Radloff says.

Media Attachments