The hybrid sport of footgolf increasingly popular at Pinecrest Golf Course

The footgolf course at Pinecrest. [Fairfax County Park Authority].

Footgolf, a relatively new sport that combines soccer and golf, is gaining in popularity in the United States. In Fairfax County, however, there is only one footgolf course, and it’s right here in Mason District – at the Fairfax County Park Authority’s Pinecrest Golf Course on Little River Turnpike.

Footgolf generally follows the rules of golf, as players try to kick a regulation soccer ball into a 21-inch cup with the least number of moves. The footgolf cups are on the rough, so they don’t interfere with golfers, says Pinecrest Manager Sarah Oberther.

“If you can kick a ball, you can play footgolf,” she says.

The American FootGolf League, founded in 2011, lists 441 certified footgolf courses on its website. The rise of footgolf mirrors the declining popularity of golf and has served as a savior for struggling golf courses. 

The 18-hole, 2,000-yard footgolf course at Pinecrest opened in June. It’s only available on Saturdays and Sundays, 1:30-6 p.m. The cost is $12 per person if you bring your own ball or $15 if you rent a ball at the clubhouse. There’s an additional charge for golf carts.

Oberther says most footgolf players at Pinecrest are in their 20s, although people of any age, beginning with pre-teens, can play the sport. It’s especially good for soccer players who want to practice their skills.

The sport is increasingly popular at Pinecrest, attracting about 50 plays a day on average, Oberther says. She recommends calling the clubhouse in advance, 703-941-1061, to reserve a tee time.

Pinecrest is getting ready to start a footgolf league. Call the clubhouse if you’d like to form a team.