HATTIESBURG, Miss. —
Two longtime contributors to disc golf in Mississippi are being recognized for their dedication to the sport and their work helping it grow across the state.
David Swain of Crystal Springs and Tony Bass of Purvis were inducted into the Mississippi Disc Golf Hall of Fame during the fifth annual Hall of Fame Classic at Paul B. Johnson State Park.
Swain was honored for more than 15 years of service through the Jackson Union of Disc Golf Enthusiasts, known as JUDGES. He has helped organize tournaments, lead community workdays and improve Chautauqua Park in Crystal Springs by working with city officials and local businesses.
During Swain’s tribute, Courtney Stampey praised his ability to build relationships and bring people together.
“He wants deep friendship and connection. He wants to know you, the real you. He wants to make our communities more connected, more life-giving, more joyful,” Stampey said.
Swain is also known for creating custom-stamped discs that showcase his creativity and passion for the game. Despite his contributions, he said he was surprised to learn he had been selected for the Hall of Fame.
“When I got the call from Damon to say, ‘Hey man, you’ve been inducted into Hall of Fame,’ I thought, ‘Man, there’s no way. I mean, I’m a terrible disc golfer,’” Swain said.
Bass was recognized for more than two decades of competitive success and service to disc golf in Mississippi and across the South.
A professional player since 2002, Bass has recorded 40 career victories. He was named Southern Nationals Player of the Year in 2005 and finished second at the Southern Nationals Pro Championship in 2006 and 2011.
Beyond competition, Bass has helped design disc golf courses across Mississippi and directed tournaments for about 20 years. His work includes events such as the Fox Hunt, Pinebelt Punkout and Pearl River Rundown.
Bass also serves as an Innova Ambassador, promoting the sport and mentoring other players.
With 18 inductees recognized so far, the Mississippi Disc Golf Hall of Fame continues to celebrate the people who have helped build the sport’s presence throughout the state.
Organizers expect the Hall of Fame celebration to return to Jackson next year.