The Hyzer wheel (and the Unique Player)

I’ve written about this before: I come from an ultimate frisbee background. For decades, I threw an ultimate disc. I never played disc golf. As a consequence, my backhand is built on the heavy hyzer throw required for an ultimate disc.

For me, it’s been tough to adapt to the more “conventional” throw of a disc golf backhand.

However, I’m finally accepting that my style—my instinct, my orientation for throwing a backhand—is built on a heavy hyzer release. When I do what I know how to do, I can throw a disc solidly and consistently.

What I do is a “hyzer wheel.” I drive forward and release on a strong hyzer angle. I rely on the spin of the disc to pop it up—and level it out for flight.

Paige Pierce uses something of a hyzer release in her backhand. You can see an example of it here.

My “hyzer wheel” is much more steep, though. But it helps me to maximize my spin and forward movement.

I’m sure plenty of people would say that I’m throwing “wrong.”

But consider this: I can visualize a “hyzer wheel” as I move forward and release. I can reproduce it solidly on most drives. It feels natural to me. It works.

In defense of this unorthodox style, I point to other players who play in their own unique style. Chandler Kramer throws almost exclusively forehands in his disc golf game—and it works well for him. Conversely, for years, Isaac and Ezra Robinson were almost exclusively backhand players.

Or, look at Matt Orum’s putting style. It’s different from most people. He almost starts the putt with an anhyzer angle. But it works for him.

The point is, I want to enjoy disc golf. I want to have fun—and do what works best or me.

So here’s to playing your own game, and maximizing your natural instincts and ability.