Married To:

Andrea (Mielke) - She runs a fiber arts business with her sister. http://www.mielkesfarm.com

Favorite Courses:

Tough but fair. I like wooded courses the most.  Walnut ridge, DesMoines. Standing Rocks, Steven Point, WI west course (temp). Tower Ridge in EauClaire, WI. Stone Hedge near Nashville was a fun course.  I try to find the fun in all courses.  

In The Bag:

All “S” plastic Demon –various stability– This is the disc I would miss most
Element X 150 – short range finesse shots
Wizards – 170 – Driving – Approaching
Illusions–various stability

My Strengths:

1-putting (generally if the putt doesn’t go in it is a drop in from there), 2-approaching (have had a lot of practice saving par), 3-driving (I don’t have great distance and have had control issues in the past). I have learned to throw mid-range and putters off the tee if I am not going to make it to the pin in one, in order to give myself an easier second shot. 

Training:

I mainly practice throwing straight and only practice when I am having fun. My theory is once you have mastered throwing straight the rest will fall into place more easily. I spend very little time practicing my putting. My driving costs me more strokes than my putting does. 

Player Advice:

Know yourself and your game. Video taping yourself will give you a quick insight on right or wrong things you are doing. I watched a video of myself for the first time this spring and noticed my left hand wasn’t behaving properly, so I have been working on that issue. Learn to play with an even keel. Keep the emotions in check.  

Player Models/Influences:

I have caddied for Barry Schultz at a couple USDGC’s and learned that even the top players make poor decisions that cost them strokes. Not letting the bad decisions carry over into the next shot helps a lot. Consistency is a major key of a good player. At USDGC I believe a person that can only throw 300 accurately and consistently could cash every year if they play smart.  

Personal Disc Golf Goals:

Continue having fun and sharing the sport with those willing to listen. Play many more courses. I enjoy the range of people one meets on and off the course due to the sport. Even if you meet people that don’t play, remember they have the power to influence the future of the sport.