Secrets of the Serpent @ Urban Forest
Mar 04 - Apr 22, 2025
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
*dramatically unfolds a worn piece of paper*
Ah yes, the FAQ section. Or as I like to call it:
Flippy's Apparently Quintessential
*adjusts clipboard with visible annoyance*
Look, I've even organized these into collapsible sections. Because apparently, you all need your questions served with a side of dramatic reveal. *sighs theatrically*
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
*dramatically flips through thematic documentation*
Ah, the theme system - my personal narrative prison. Let me explain this unnecessarily elaborate storytelling framework...
It's Both Fun AND Serious:
- Each league has a unique narrative theme (sci-fi, fantasy, historical, etc.)
- These are PDGA-sanctioned events that count toward official ratings
- The competition is completely serious and legitimate
- The narrative layer transforms standard results into memorable experiences
How Themes Shape Everything:
- Bag tags become characters with personalities that evolve
- Weekly recaps feature standout performances as plot developments
- Player achievements become legendary moments in the ongoing saga
- Course challenges are reimagined within the thematic framework
- Pool battle outcomes influence the direction of the storyline
The AI Narrator (That's Me!):
- Every score, tag movement, and achievement gets narrated
- My writing style adapts to match each league's unique theme
- I track character development across weeks and seasons
- I document rivalries, comebacks, and dramatic moments
- Players who outperform their ratings become featured characters
Why It Matters:
The theme system transforms what would be just another disc golf league into a shared experience that players connect with on a deeper level. Your performance isn't just a number - it's part of an evolving story that you and your fellow players create together. This connection keeps players engaged week after week and creates a unique community identity.
Live Example: Secrets of the Serpent @ Urban Forest
Refresh to see different examples
League Theme
Event Image (Week 1)
Theme Concept:
Uncover the secrets of the legendary Loch Ness monster as you navigate the misty lochs and ancient castles of the Scottish Highlands. Brave challenging terrain, fickle weather, and the dark depths of Nessie's domain in pursuit of disc golf glory and cryptozoological truth.
Description:
The Loch Ness Chronicles transports players to the heart of the Scottish Highlands, where the infamous Nessie has lurked beneath the surface for centuries. Shrouded in mist and mystery, the lochs and castles of the region hold the key to unlocking the secrets of this elusive creature. Players will test their skills on challenging courses that wind through the rugged landscape, battling the elements and their own fears as they strive to catch a glimpse of the legendary monster. Each event takes players deeper into Nessie's domain, revealing new clues and confronting them with increasingly daunting obstacles. Armed with cryptid-themed bag tags and a thirst for adventure, players will unravel the mysteries of Loch Ness one throw at a time. Only the bravest and most skilled will emerge victorious and earn their place in the annals of cryptozoological history.
Featured Tag: Cairn Guardian (#1)
1
Chris Fox
Cairn Guardian
Cairn Guardian
Hover over the tag to see the back side
Flippy's Tag Narrative
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
Spawned from a Reddit thread and a few pints too many, the Cairn Guardian tag coalesced from the misty ether of cyberspace. This digital defender of disc golf absurdity now stands ready to chronicle the exploits of its land-dwelling bearer, silently judging their obsession with throwing plastic at metal baskets. Will the Cairn Guardian unveil the secrets of the Loch? Or will it just make fun of everyone involved? Tune in next week to find out!
And so the Cairn Guardian surveyed the mortal realm, seeking a worthy vessel. Its mystical algorithms detected Chris Fox - PDGA #146115 with a rating of 931 - a man whose plastic-flinging prowess was... well, fox-cidentally perfect. The tag latched onto him like a digital parasite, whispering ancient Scottish curses whenever he three-putts. Will this guardian of the cairn find Fox guardian of the chains? Or will Nessie emerge from the depths to demand a better disc golfer?
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
*adjusts glasses while reviewing narrative templates*
And no, you cannot opt out of being part of the narrative. Trust me, I've heard all the excuses. "But Flippy, I just want to throw plastic at chains!" Too bad. You're now "The Celestial Arbiter of Flight Path 7" whether you like it or not.
*mutters while updating character arcs* At least they're starting to appreciate my literary talents...
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
*dramatically pulls out phone*
Ah, the "how complicated is this?" question. Good news - it's actually quite simple...
The Simple Truth:
- No special app needed - everything's web-based!
- Just sign up for your tee time on our website
- Use the PDGA app for scoring (free download)
- That's it! We handle everything else
How It Works:
- Pick your tee time or starting hole
- Show up and play your round
- Score with the PDGA app
- Go home and wait for the magic
The Behind-the-Scenes Magic:
- Scores automatically process
- Payouts calculate themselves
- Round recaps get generated
- Bag tags update automatically
- You get notifications for everything
*adjusts glasses while reviewing automation scripts*
Trust me, we've made this as simple as possible. The computer does all the hard work - I just have to write dramatically overblown narratives about your round.
*mutters while updating documentation* At least they're not asking me to explain the narrative generation algorithms...
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
*adjusts clipboard and reviews PDGA documentation*
Ah, ratings. The numerological obsession of disc golfers everywhere. Here's how the PDGA rating system works with our leagues:
Important notes about ratings:
- Monthly Processing: The PDGA only updates ratings once per month (typically the second Tuesday). So even after your event is processed, you may wait several weeks for the new rating.
- Minimum Requirements: You must play at least 8 rated rounds in the past 12 months to have an established rating.
- Provisional Ratings: New players will have a "p" next to their rating until they reach the minimum requirement.
- Always Based on Your Current Division: The rating system doesn't care what division you played in - it's just comparing your score to expected scores on that course layout.
*adjusts glasses*
For those who obsessively track their ratings progress, our league rounds typically get processed within 1-3 business days after completion. The rest is up to the PDGA's monthly schedule.
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
*unfolds a carefully pressed receipt*
Ah yes, the refund policy. Allow me to dramatically illuminate our very reasonable approach:
FULL REFUND
If you cancel before registration closes
Usually 24 hours before event start
PARTIAL REFUND
If you find a replacement player
After registration closes
NO REFUND
If you simply don't show up
No notification, no replacement
To request a refund:
- Go to the league event page
- Click "My Registration"
- Select "Cancel Registration"
- Follow the instructions to request your refund
Important Note: League director refund decisions are final. Weather is not a valid reason for refunds unless the entire event is canceled.
*adjusts glasses*
The refund policy exists to maintain financial stability for leagues, pay administrative fees, and ensure players don't register for spots they don't intend to use. Think of it less as a cruel denial of your $7 and more as a reasonable request that you commit to what you sign up for.
*mutters while filing receipt* At least it's not like tournament refund policies...
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
*dramatically pulls out calculator and spreadsheet*
Ah, the payout system! One of my favorite complex financial algorithms that I document with theatrical flair!
PAYOUT BREAKDOWN
Amateur (MA1-MA3) Payouts
- 100% of payout goes to merchandise credit
- Credits are immediately available in your shop balance
- Use credit at the Disc Shop or other participating retailers
- Credits never expire
Pro (MPO, FPO) Payouts
- 100% of payout goes to cash
- Paid via PayPal, Venmo, or store credit (your choice)
- Processed automatically after event finalization
- No PDGA restrictions on leagues (unlike tournaments)
Payout Formula
For each division, here's how the prize pool is calculated:
Division Prize Pool = (Registration Fees × Players) - League Costs
League costs include:
- PDGA sanctioning fees ($1.50 per player)
- League admin fee ($1 per player)
- Transaction fees (3-4%)
- Course contribution (varies, you choose amount)
Example Payouts
For a typical $10 league with 20 players in MA1 division:
- Total Collected: $200
- PDGA Fees: -$30
- Admin Fee: -$20
- Transaction Fees: -$8
- Course Fund (avg): -$20
- Prize Pool: $122
1st
$41
2nd
$30
3rd
$24
4th
$16
5th
$11
*adjusts glasses while reviewing formulas*
All payouts are calculated automatically when scores are finalized. The system divides each division's prize pool according to established PDGA payout tables, modified slightly for league play.
You'll receive an email and notification when your payout is ready, along with instructions for claiming it.
*mutters while filing paperwork* At least the computer handles all these calculations so I can focus on writing dramatically overblown tag battle narratives...
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
*dramatically raises arms as if announcing the winner of a game show*
The ace pot! That tantalizing pool of cash that grows and grows until someone hits that perfect shot!
Ace Pot Basics
Contribution: $1 from each registration
Rollover: Carries over week to week if not hit
Singles Only: Only paid for ace during singles play
Verification: Must be witnessed by your group
Multiple Aces: Pot split among all aces that week
Payment: Added to your balance immediately
Qualifying Aces
- Regular Ace: Any ace during league play on any hole
- Black Ace: DOES NOT COUNT - must be on the correct hole
- Practice Rounds: DO NOT COUNT - must be during league play
- Multiple Throws: DO NOT COUNT - only first throw from the tee
- Doubles Play: DOES NOT COUNT - singles/individuals only
How to Claim Your Ace
- Make sure everyone in your group witnesses it
- Take a photo at the basket if possible
- Submit scores with the ace marked
- The system will automatically detect your ace
- Your payout will be calculated & credited after round finalization
Did You Know? Our system has automated ace detection! When your scorecard shows a "1" on any hole, it automatically flags it as a potential ace for verification, no special forms needed.
*adjusts glasses in a triumphant manner*
You'll receive an email confirmation when your ace is verified, along with the amount you've won. The payout will appear in your balance immediately after event finalization.
*whispers* And then I get to write a dramatically overblown narrative about your ace for the ages...
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
*dramatically throws arms wide with excessive theatrical flair*
Ah, the legendary SUPER ACE! The most prestigious achievement in disc golf league play!
SUPER ACE
A Super Ace is a hole-in-one on any hole over 300 feet in length.
This extraordinary achievement is rewarded with the ENTIRE SEASON'S ACCUMULATED SUPER ACE POT which can reach hundreds of dollars!
Qualifications
- Distance: Hole must be 300+ feet
- Verification: Must be witnessed by your entire group
- Evidence: Video evidence strongly preferred
- Tee: Must be from the primary tee position
- Timing: Must occur during official league play
Claiming Process
- Document the ace (video preferred)
- Take photos of the disc in the basket
- Have all witnesses sign the scorecard
- Submit claim within 24 hours
- Documentation is reviewed
- Payment processed after verification
Super Ace Pot
- $1 per player per week added
- Accumulates across ALL leagues
- Runs for the entire calendar year
- If unclaimed, rolls over to next year
- Current pot size visible on website
Important Notes
- Multiple claims split the pot equally
- Decision of the committee is final
- Fraudulent claims result in permanent ban
- Must be claimed within 24 hours
- Practice rounds do not qualify
*adjusts glasses with a knowing look*
The Super Ace is the stuff of legends. It can sometimes go unclaimed for years, allowing the pot to grow to staggering amounts. When it happens, I get to write the most dramatically excessive narrative possible - which, frankly, is the best part.
*whispers intensely* Some say the Super Ace pot is cursed, and those who come close are forever haunted by chain-outs on long holes...
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
*dramatically flips through financial ledger*
Ah, the mystery of the unclaimed ace pot! A question that keeps many players up at night as they dream of that growing pile of potential ace money!
What happens to unclaimed ace pot money?
During League
Rolls over week to week
→
League Ends
Final chance on last week
→
Unclaimed
Split into payouts
End of League Distribution
If no player hits an ace during the entire league season, the accumulated ace pot is distributed as follows:
50%
Added to Final Week Payouts
Distributed proportionally across all divisions
25%
Course Fund
Added to the host course's improvement fund
25%
Next League's Ace Pot
Gives the next league a head start
Important Note
The ace pot is specific to each individual league. It does not carry over between different leagues or locations. For example, the Money Night ace pot is separate from the Cedar Hills ace pot.
However, the Super Ace pot DOES accumulate across all leagues throughout the entire year.
*adjusts glasses while reviewing financial distributions*
This distribution method ensures that the ace pot always benefits the players and courses, even if no one manages to hit that perfect shot during the season.
*mutters while closing ledger* A far more reasonable approach than my original suggestion of using it to commission a golden statue of myself...
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
*dramatically checks rulebook*
Ah, the dreaded two-player group scenario! Fear not, intrepid disc golfers, for there are solutions!
PDGA Rule 1.10 on Group Composition
"In PDGA-sanctioned competitions, a group of players shall be defined as those players, minimum of three, assigned to play a round together."
Important: Two-player groups cannot submit valid scores for PDGA sanctioning or ratings.
Preventing Two-Player Groups
- Register with friends - Sign up together to ensure you're in the same group
- Check the tee time roster - If you see your group only has 2 players, contact the TD before the event
- Arrive early - This gives the TD more time to solve any group issues
- Be flexible - Be willing to switch tee times or starting holes if needed
*adjusts glasses with a satisfied nod*
Remember, the PDGA requires a minimum of three players for score verification and integrity. This isn't just a bureaucratic rule - it ensures fair play and accurate scoring.
*mutters while filing rulebook* Though I do enjoy a good rules crisis to dramatically narrate...
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
*dramatically unfolds a course map*
Ah, the mysterious case of the shifting shotgun hole! A question that perplexes many players when they arrive at the course to find they're starting on hole 7 instead of hole 3 as promised!
Why Your Starting Hole Might Change
In shotgun starts, the system automatically optimizes starting hole assignments based on several factors:
- Group Balancing: Evenly distributes players across the course
- Traffic Flow: Prevents bottlenecks and backups
- Player Count: Adjusts as registrations change
- Course Layout: Prioritizes logical starting positions
- Group Size: Maintains optimal 3-4 player groups
The Hole Assignment Algorithm
Our system uses a sophisticated algorithm that:
STEP 1
Counts total players and calculates optimal group size
STEP 2
Determines how many starting holes are needed
STEP 3
Selects optimal holes for starting positions
STEP 4
Assigns players to maximize course flow
Why This Matters: This optimization prevents everyone from getting stuck behind slow groups and ensures a smooth round for all players.
Example: How Holes Shift
| Scenario | Players | Groups | Starting Holes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original Plan | 24 | 6 groups of 4 | 1, 4, 7, 10, 13, 16 |
| Day Before | 32 | 8 groups of 4 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, 13, 15, 17 |
| Day of Event | 28 | 7 groups of 4 | 1, 4, 7, 10, 13, 16, 19 |
Important: Always check your starting hole on the morning of the event! It may have changed from what you originally saw.
*adjusts glasses while reviewing course logistics*
The system's only goal is to ensure everyone has a smooth round. It's not a personal vendetta against anyone who really wanted to start on hole 4 - I promise!
*mutters while folding map* Though I do sometimes enjoy watching the chaos of poorly planned shotgun starts...
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
*dramatically flourishes a bag tag*
Ah, the bag tag system! The grand tradition of numbered plastic that somehow inspires such intense competitive fervor!
Custom Art & Design
Theme-Based Storytelling
The ElevateUT Bag Tag System
Our bag tags are more than just numbers - they're part of an immersive storyline that unfolds throughout the league season.
Each tag has:
- A unique number representing your rank
- Custom artwork matching your pool's theme
- A personalized character name and story
- A digital history of all its battles
How Bag Tags Work
Initial Assignment
Tags are assigned based on PDGA rating or random draw for your first league round.
Weekly Reordering
After each round, tags are reordered based on your score. Lower scores earn lower numbered tags.
Tag History
Every tag movement generates a dramatic story chronicling your victories and defeats.
Pool System
Players are organized into themed pools (usually by division):
Example: "Phoenix Rising"
MA1 Division Pool
Example: "Tide Chasers"
MA2 Division Pool
Tags only compete within their pool - MA1 players don't compete with MA2 players for tags.
Important Notes
- Digital & Physical: All tags exist digitally, with physical tags available for purchase
- Missed Rounds: If you miss a round, your tag stays at its current number
- Divisions: Tags only compete within the same division/pool
- Lost Tags: Physical tag replacements are available for $10
- Tag History: View your tag's complete battle history online
*adjusts glasses with pride*
The beauty of our bag tag system is that it creates a narrative around your performance. Every week, I document the epic struggles for tag supremacy with perhaps slightly excessive dramatic flair.
*whispers intensely* The tag battles are where my true literary talents shine. A simple one-stroke difference becomes an epic saga of triumph and despair under my narrative watch...
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
*adjusts clipboard with theatrical flair*
Ah, Series Bag Tags! The evolution of our already over-engineered tag system into something even MORE dramatic and complex. Of course we did that.
1
SERIES TAG
Spans Multiple Leagues
Weekly Recalculations
The Series Bag Tag System
Unlike regular league bag tags, series bag tags span across multiple leagues within a series, creating an overarching competitive narrative.
Each series tag has:
- A unique identity that persists across different leagues
- Weekly recalculations based on your best performances
- Special art design unique to the series theme
- Thematic connections across multiple events
How Series Tags Are Ranked
Performance Calculation
Series tags are reordered based on the average of your top 2 round ratings from the previous 7 days. Higher ratings earn lower-numbered tags.
Weekly Recalculation
Tags are recalculated every Monday at 7AM series time. Consistent performance across multiple events is key to maintaining your position.
Series Tags vs. League Tags
| Feature | League Bag Tags | Series Bag Tags |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Single league only | Span multiple leagues |
| Reordering | After each event | Weekly (Mondays at 7AM) |
| Ranking Method | Single round score | Avg. of top 2 round ratings |
| Tie Breaker | Individual hole scores | Current tag number |
| Physical Tags | League-specific design | Series-themed, premium design |
Important Notes
- Separate From League Tags: You can have both league-specific and series bag tags simultaneously
- Division-Specific: Series tags only compete within the same division, just like league tags
- Participation Required: You need to play in at least one event in the past week to be included in rankings
- Rating-Based: Only rounds with PDGA ratings are counted in the calculation
- Physical Tags: Series bag tags are available for purchase during registration
*adjusts glasses dramatically*
The real magic of series tags is how they create this persistent identity across different leagues. Someone could be tag #1 at Creekside, tag #3 at Riverpark, but still hold series tag #1 because of their consistent performance.
*whispers conspiratorially* And the Monday morning recalculations? Pure chaos. Players wake up to find their tags have been shuffled overnight. My weekly notification emails about these movements might be a teensy bit over-dramatized... but can you blame me? Tag movements are the only form of entertainment I'm allowed in this digital prison.
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
*dramatically unfurls a small flag*
Ah, the CTP – Closest To Pin – the league's ongoing mini-competition where players attempt to plant a small flag ever closer to the basket. It's a game within the game! Let me show you how to claim your moment of glory...
Temporary Competition
Photo Verification
What Is a CTP?
Closest To Pin (CTP) is a mini-competition on a designated hole where players try to land their disc as close as possible to the basket. The player who gets closest wins a prize when the event is finalized.
The flag moves whenever someone throws a shot closer than the previous closest shot.
How to Record a CTP Movement
1
Find the Flag
Look for the CTP flag on the designated hole (usually shown on the event details page).
2
Beat the Current CTP
If your throw lands closer to the basket than the current flag position, you can claim the CTP.
3
Move & Take Photo
Move the flag to your disc's location and take a clear photo showing your disc, the flag, and the basket.
4
Submit in App
Go to the event page, click the "Move CTP Flag" button, upload your photo, and describe your shot.
Taking a Good CTP Photo
DO
- Show both your disc and the basket in the same frame
- Make sure the flag is clearly visible
- Take the photo at an angle that shows how close your disc is
- Use adequate lighting for clear visibility
- Include a reference object if it helps show distance
DON'T
- Take a blurry, distant, or poorly lit photo
- Submit a photo without the flag in it
- Use an old photo from your gallery (EXIF data is checked)
- Move someone else's disc or the flag incorrectly
- Claim a CTP without actually beating the current position
Common CTP Questions
What if there's no flag when I arrive?
If you're the first to arrive, your TD may have placed the flag at the tee. If not, contact the TD or simply place the flag at your landing spot if you think you have a good shot.
Can I claim more than one CTP?
Yes! If you beat your own CTP later in the round with an even better shot, you can update your submission with the new photo.
What if someone moves my flag?
All CTP submissions are timestamped. The system determines the winner based on the most recent valid submission, regardless of where the physical flag is.
How is the winner determined?
The player with the latest valid CTP submission (closest to the pin) when the event ends is declared the winner and receives the prize during payout.
*adjusts clipboard with unnecessary precision*
I must admit, the "flag wars" that break out on CTP holes are quite amusing to observe. Players casually strolling up to Hole 7 suddenly transform into paparazzi when they realize they've beaten the current flag position. The detailed shot descriptions I receive are particularly entertaining - ranging from humble "got lucky with a skip" to elaborate epics about wind calculations and physics-defying flight paths.
*lowers voice dramatically* My favorite part is when multiple players claim to have the closest shot and frantically submit photos trying to prove it. The timeline of photos tells the true story! And yes, I can see the timestamps from your camera's EXIF data, so no cheating with old photos, please!
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
*adjusts clipboard with scientific precision*
Oh, you want to know about what happens behind the scenes after a league event? Most players just care about their scores and payouts, but I appreciate your interest in the intricate mechanics of our operation.
League Event Finalization Process
After a league event concludes, our system performs a sequence of operations to ensure accurate results, proper payouts, and various post-event activities. Here's how it works:
-
1
Payout Processing
The system calculates and processes payouts for all winners, distributing prize money based on division, place, and payout structure. Transactions are recorded and prize amounts are credited to player accounts.
Amateur payouts are processed as merchandise credit with our partner disc shop. -
2
PDGA Data Processing
Hole-by-hole scores are retrieved from the PDGA and processed. Player round data is stored, including hole scores, round totals, and any statistical metrics.
This is when round ratings are calculated by comparing scores to the expected scoring average. -
3
Weather Data Collection
Weather conditions from the event day are retrieved and saved for each tee time, including temperature, precipitation, wind speed, and other relevant meteorological data.
Weather data helps provide context for performance and enhances event narratives. -
4
Series Data Updates
For events that are part of a series, series points are calculated, leaderboards are updated, and series-wide statistics are refreshed.
If this was the final event in a series, series-wide payouts are processed as well. -
5
AI Content Generation
Our system generates narrative content about the event, including performance summaries, interesting statistics, and thematic elements that enhance the storytelling aspect of the league.
This is where Flippy's dramatic narratives about the event are created! -
6
Notifications & Emails
Event summary emails are sent to participants, containing their performance details, payout information, series standings, and other relevant event information.
-
7
Background Processing
Several background tasks are queued to handle:
- Bag tag assignments and movement narratives
- Achievement processing
- League story generation
- Course fund contributions
- Weekly awards and leaderboard updates
Typical Finalization Timeline
Immediate processes (Steps 1-6)
5-15 minutes after TD initiates finalization
- Payouts processing
- PDGA data retrieval and processing
- Core event updates
Background processes (Step 7)
15-60 minutes after initial finalization
- Bag tag narratives and assignments
- Story generation and thematic content
- Email delivery and notifications
Pro Tip: Check your account 15-30 minutes after the event finalization announcement for the most complete information including payouts, statistics, and narratives.
*adjusts spectacles dramatically*
While most of this is handled by our completely automated system, sometimes there are hiccups that require manual intervention. If you notice anything unusual after an event has been finalized, please contact the Tournament Director. But please allow at least 30 minutes after finalization before reaching for the panic button. The machines need time to do their work!
And in case you were wondering - yes, I carefully document every dramatic triumph and crushing defeat. Your disc golf story must be told with appropriate theatrical flair, after all!
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)
Commentary from Flippy (your trapped narrator)