Scott Stokely's journey in disc golf began at its very roots. He started playing the sport at the age of seven in 1976 at Oak Grove Park in Pasadena, California, which was the world's first permanent disc golf course. This early immersion in the sport allowed him the unique opportunity to be mentored by disc golf legends. By the 1990s, he was a touring professional and was among the first players to earn a living stricly from disc golf. Over his career, he has achieved 17 World and National titles, along with holding multiple Guinness World Records for throwing distance with both backhand and sidearm techniques, a feat unmatched by any other player. He is also a World Disc Golf Hall of Fame and Southern California Disc Sports Hall of Fame inductee.
Beyond his competitive success, Scott demonstrated an early entrepreneurial spirit and a deep commitment to the sport's development. Recognizing the scarcity of resources for players seeking to improve, he authored the first instructional book and video series on disc golf throwing techniques. He was also one of the first players to organize throwing clinics around the country, reaching a large number of players by visiting 155 cities. This experience laid the foundation for his later instructional work.Scott's entrepreneurial journey has also led him into disc manufacturing. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Scott and a former business partner acquired Ching Discs with the intention of relaunching the brand. Pandemic-related plastic supply disruptions influenced the decision to launch his own line, Stokely Discs, as the Ching relaunch was delayed.
The creation of Stokely Discs and the revival of Ching Discs are deeply rooted in Scott's philosophy and concern for the disc golf community. He spent nearly two years conducting market research, speaking with pro shop owners across the country to understand their challenges. This led to a core tenet of his manufacturing approach: prioritising the sport's overall health and the sustainability of local pro shops and vendors, whom he views as the "life-blood" of disc golf. He actively limits direct online sales from his website, particularly for coveted "first run" discs, encouraging players to purchase from local shops or established retailers. This business model is designed to ensure retailers benefit from sales, supporting their ability to grow the sport at the grassroots level. Scott is vocal about this approach, stating that the spread of disc sports trumps everything and that he is not driven by becoming rich, but is more concerned with the industry's long-term health. He also made a commitment to produce only high-quality discs that he would personally stand by. All manufacturing for Stokely Discs and the revived Ching Discs occurs in the United States, using the original Ching molds shipped back from China.
Another significant facet of Scott's entrepreneurial and community-driven work is the Stokely Disc Golf Method™. Drawing from his decades of playing and over 25 years of teaching, he developed a comprehensive instructional system designed for all skill levels. His method focuses on breaking down complex movements into simple, understandable steps, based on practical experience rather than just theory. He disseminates this method through in-person clinics, seminars, and a six-month online course, aiming to provide clear, effective coaching.
Furthermore, Scott's commitment to inclusivity is embodied in Blue Power Adaptive Disc Golf. Having been involved with adaptive disc golf since 1993, he actively works to make the sport accessible to individuals with special needs. This initiative aims to combat isolation and promote joy by using disc golf as a tool for positive impact and connection within the special needs community. A key part of this is his #TeamBluePower initiative, where he donates 100% of his tournament prize money to special needs and autism organisations.