NCDG Official Response to the Sudbury Star’s Article on the Minnow Lake Proposal
On July 2nd, the Sudbury Star published an article titled “Minnow Lake disc golf plan not entirely popular.”
https://www.thesudburystar.com/news/local-news/minnow-lake-disc-golf-plan-not-entirely-popular
While the reporter contacted us in advance, the final piece misrepresented both the community’s support and the facts of the project.
Worse still, the entire article is based on the input of a single, disgruntled resident and should not be taken as reflective of the broader Minnow Lake or Greater Sudbury community. Community feedback — especially from the public consultation session — has shown strong majority support for the proposed course. That context was unfortunately omitted from the article.
Below, we break down several key issues and provide factual responses to help set the record straight.
Community Support Was Overlooked
Article Quote:
“But the plan is not sitting well with some area residents, including long-time Minnow Lake resident Mary Klein.”
The article highlights a single dissenting voice while ignoring the fact that the majority of residents at the public outreach session expressed clear support for the project. Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive — and that context was omitted from the piece.
Misrepresentation of Who Plays Disc Golf
Article Quote:
“These are the 40- and 50-year-olds looking for risk sports with no accountability for their own actions and the choices they make,” Klein asserted.
“Klein is less ambiguous. She contends those engaging in disc golf tend to be in their middle ages and should take responsibility for their actions.”
This statement is inaccurate and discriminatory.
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For our annual Twin Stacks tournament, only 26 of 80 players registered are over 40.
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The majority of disc golf participants locally — and across North America — are under 40.
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Our sport includes players of all ages and skill levels. Stereotyping older participants as irresponsible is both harmful and unfounded.
Safety Concerns Are Greatly Exaggerated
Article Quote:
“Our emergency service workers are human. Respect them and do not put their lives at risk by your thrill-seeking behaviour.”
This kind of rhetoric is alarmist and misleading.
Disc golf is a safe, low-impact recreational activity. The risks are no greater than walking or hiking on any other public trail. Emergency services are not being endangered by responsible use of public park space. This kind of framing creates fear without evidence.
Responsibility Is One of Our Core Values
Article Quote:
“These are the 40- and 50-year-olds looking for risk sports with no accountability for their own actions and the choices they make.”
This quote implies that disc golfers do not take responsibility for their activities — a claim that is completely false.
NCDG emphasizes “pack in, pack out” principles, and we have a long track record of maintaining and improving the spaces we use. Our volunteers organize cleanup events, brush removal, and regular maintenance of our play areas.
We Are Still in the Planning Stage
Article Quote:
“Klein is also concerned with how disc golfers will access the space.”
To clarify: the course is not built yet. We are still in early planning and consultation.
Safe and responsible access is part of the plan and will be developed in coordination with local stakeholders. We take safety, environmental care, and community impact seriously — no part of this project is being rushed or forced through.
The Course Is Not Near the Oak Forest Trail
Article Quote:
“There is a beautiful walking trail that winds through a hardwood forest, and I can’t see that surviving disc golf.”
This is factually incorrect.
The proposed disc golf layout is nowhere near the Oak Forest Trail. It would utilize approximately 40 hectares of separate public land not currently part of any existing trail network. Concerns about damage to that trail are based on misinformation.
Moving Forward with Transparency
Article Quote:
[Privately shared response from the reporter to a community member:]
“Ah yes, the magic of journalism.”
We find this dismissive and unprofessional, especially in response to a valid concern about bias and balance.
Nickel City Disc Golf is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to accessible recreation, environmental responsibility, and community engagement. We welcome public dialogue, but we expect media coverage to be factual and fair.
We’ve formally contacted the Sudbury Star to request a correction or follow-up piece to address these concerns.
Thank you to everyone in the community who continues to support our mission. If you have questions about the project or want to get involved, we invite you to connect with us directly.
— The NCDG Team
