C-N unveils new disc golf course, honors longtime athletics director

Carson-Newman officially unveiled a new disc golf course located on the east side of campus. Members of the University’s Board of Trustees and special guest gathered Friday, Oct. 20 for a special dedication of the “David W. Barger Disc Golf Course on Mossy Creek.”

Open to the campus community as well as the public, the 18-hole course features concrete tee pads and orange and blue targets. The course was designed by C-N junior Taylor Kilgore, grandson of the course’s namesake and Hunter Sales, the University’s director of Intercollegiate Recreational Sports.

“Being a part of this project means the world to me,” said Kilgore. “Everyone who has helped bring my vision of the course to reality has been amazing to work with. It has been a fun 10 months.”

Though the planning has been hard work, Kilgore said the idea that the end result honors Barger makes it all worth it.

“It definitely means a lot to me, I know that my grandfather has done a lot for the school during his time here as a student, employee, and even during retirement,” he said. “I know that this disc golf course will honor him and provide students and community members with another activity to enjoy on Carson-Newman’s campus.” 

Barger, a 1970 alumnus, joined C-N’s athletic department in 1980, becoming the director of athletic promotions. After serving in that role for nine years, he was named the director of athletic development. He took over the operation’s helm in 1990 when he replaced legendary football coach Ken Sparks as athletics director. When he retired in 2012, Barger was championed for his character, devotion to God, dedication to serving others and commitment to student-athletes, coaches and staff.