I’m a man who would rather listen than talk, except for when it comes to disc golf. This fun and challenging sport gets me chirping to any willing ear. When I decided to create a passion project outlining my creative process, determining the subject matter was a no brainer.
I decided to take an unusual approach to this project. As opposed to my typical logo process, I created an entirely new asset for the most recognizable brand in the world: NIKE.
The story of NIKE Disc Golf emanates from the ultimate target–the disc catcher. This distant cousin to a 4.25 inch hole in the ground is a large part of what makes the sport so special. With the rapid growth of disc golf, this unusual metal contraption will soon be an iconic symbol for the game.
For those new to disc golf, the concept is simple and familiar. Try to get your disc from point a to point b in as few throws, or strokes, as possible. The disc catcher target, commonly known as the “basket”, is a metal basket held in place by a metal pole secured in the ground. To “catch” the quickly moving disc, metal chain links are connected at the top and bottom of the basket. The unmistakable sound of your disc hitting the chains only gets sweeter the farther away you are.
I personally believe the chains have a deeper significance that embodies the essence of the sport. When I started playing disc golf, I immediately recognized that the fabric of the sport is woven from the unparalleled community of welcoming golfers of all skills and ages. It’s a common occurrence for golfers to run into each other on the course and quickly join together to play a round. Players may connect for only a round, but oftentimes for much more. The chain links on the basket represent the unbreakable bonds formed by the disc golf community.
Nike category and leading disc golf product manufacturer logos compiled for research value.
Inspiration Board consisting of Disc Catcher assembly graphics and other icons.
Unused Monogram Progression