Increasing temperatures, chirping birds and warm sunny skies not only indicate the beginning of spring, but also the beginning of the season for the fastest growing sport in the United States: disc golf.

Still, not many people know about disc golf, or frolf (frisbee golf) despite its increasing popularity, so here is a quick guide to teach you the ins and outs of this fun and social game to get you out the door and on the links.

How to play:

The game is very similar to traditional golf, and uses many of the same rules and terminology. For example, most frolf courses have 18 holes, which are metal baskets set at various points on the field. A player starts at the tee pad, where he or she throws their Frisbee toward the target or basket. Each player takes as many turns as it takes to throw their disc into the basket and the scoring is exactly like golf.

Typical frolf courses do not usually have hazards like golf courses do; however, those who play at the Prairie Park course in DeKalb could argue this statement, with the trees and creek that run alongside the course.

“I have lost so many discs in that creek,” said junior English major Alex Tamari, “but most of the time I am able to find them or wait till it gets warmer to go in after them.”

Where to play:

The closest and most popular course for NIU students is Prairie Park in DeKalb, because of its proximity to campus. The park has a nine-hole course right off of Gurler Road. It is a beautiful park surrounded by lush trees and bordered by the Kishwaukee River.

However there are other courses available if you are feeling adventurous:

– Jericho Lake in Aurora (18 holes)

– Anna Page Park East and West in Rockford (both 18 holes)

– Campton Hills Park in St. Charles (9 very challenging holes)

– Pioneer Park in Kirkland (18 holes)

All of these locations are free of charge.

Where to get discs:

Because of the rising demand, frolf discs are not hard to come by. They come in a range of different sizes, shapes, and colors so it is important to find one that suits you.

Just like clubs for traditional golf, there are many different types of frolf discs such as drivers, putters, and mid-range discs. Each disc is shaped differently for either a longer or shorter throw much like clubs are designed to hit a ball a longer or shorter distance.

While most frolfers have more, beginners need only one disc to get the job done.

“I would suggest a distance driver for beginners because it gives you the ability to throw far, and you can still putt with it” said avid frolfer Mike Spychal, a junior marketing major.

Spychal also recommends purchasing discs at Play It Again Sports at 2480 Sycamore Road, where new and used discs range from $4.99 to $14.99.

Discs are also available at MC Sports and places such as 7-Eleven.