When you read the name “Joel Freeman,” what’s the first thing that comes to mind?
He’s a good guy, for starters – like a “Sexton-level” good guy. He’s creative. Both of his parents are artists. His beyond-gaudy wardrobe is evidence of the skill, as well as his upbringing. And the dude’s forehanding Whales all over the place like they’re freaking flat-top Firebirds …
Trust me on this: They’re not, and it’s bonkers.
More importantly, Freeman is a familiar face within professional disc golf. He’s been at this for a good, long while. He first burst onto the scene back in 2018 at the Las Vegas Challenge. He took second place, four strokes back of Eagle McMahon, but two up on Ricky Wysocki …
For an up-and-coming disc golfer, those are the cats with whom you want to rub shoulders.
The good news: Since that initial, breakout performance, Freeman’s won – and plenty:
- He’s won five A-tier events.
- He’s claimed six B-tier titles, as well.
- He’s brought home $10,991 in total tournament earnings.
The bad news?
Over that same period of time, he’s never taken down a National Tour or Elite Series event. He’s been close on a number of occasions, nabbing numerous top-10 finishes – even a few podiums. But when JomezPro appears and the “big boys” show up, right on schedule, Freeman fades.
Something’s VERY different about Joel this season, though …
He’s playing with more confidence. He’s always been good. I know it. You know it. Heck, Freeman knows it, too. But now he actually believes it. His play in 2022 has evidenced just that:
- He tied Chris Clemons for third at the Waco Annual Charity Open.
- Two weeks later, he finished fourth at the Texas State Disc Golf Championship.
- After two rounds, he sits in fourth at the Music City Open – again, he’s right there.
Joel needs this win – he deserves it.
In just a few hours’ time, we’ll see if he’s able to claim it. No, the Music City Open might not be an Elite Series event, but a “W” would be yet another sizable step en route to making it happen.
Also, make a note: Freeman’s this writer’s pick for a USDGC title in October.
You heard it here first.
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