The best footgolfers in the state and beyond will be heading to Jamberoo next weekend. Footgolfers? Yes, FootGolf.

For those unfamiliar, FootGolf involves players kicking a standard soccer ball into enlarged golf holes, following rules and etiquette similar to traditional golf.

Jamberoo Golf Club will host the 2025 NSW Open FootGolf tournament on 14-15 June.

This year marks the third time Jamberoo has hosted the tournament, having also staged the inaugural event in 2016.

“Jamberoo has supported the sport right from its very beginnings here in Australia,” said FootGolf ambassador and player Deryn Knott.

“They have a permanent nine holes available for social players most afternoons, which enables us to not only practise there but to host competitions as well.”

Knott explained that the way they build the courses is to dig the FootGolf holes in strategically placed positions along a golf course, typically on the edge of fairways.

It's all about concentration. Photo: Suzanne Paul

“When not in use,” said Knott. “We cover the holes with a man-hole style cover with an artificial turf surface, which allows for the usual upkeep of the golf course to continue uninterrupted and means the holes are barely visible to golf patrons.

Players from around Australia and overseas - including Japan, Malaysia, and potentially New Caledonia - will travel to Jamberoo to compete, with results contributing to their global ranking.

“Players will earn points towards their global ranking, which is what attracts international competitors,” said Knott.

“Last year at the Australian Open, we had about 30 to 40 starters - roughly half international and half domestic players from states like Victoria, Queensland, and across New South Wales.”

Knott has been playing the sport for several years and said it was a natural transition from football.

“The thing that got me hooked was that it's an individual sport. In football, you're part of a team, and it's sometimes hard to measure your personal contribution,” he said.

Japan and Malaysian players last year. Photo: Suzanne Paul

“In FootGolf, there’s no argument - your score reflects how well you played. It allows you to gauge your achievement and track your progression.”

He also noted the accessibility and affordability of FootGolf, compared to traditional golf.

“With FootGolf, you can just grab a soccer ball and head out for a kick - take it as seriously or as casually as you like,” said Knott.

“It’s less frustrating than golf too. In golf, the technicality of a swing can hold you back. But with FootGolf, if you want to curl it, you usually can.”

Some big names are expected to compete, including Hilmi from Malaysia, who recently won a major tournament in Vietnam. But Australian Ryan Paisley, last year’s Jamberoo champion, remains the favourite.

“Ryan’s been consistently winning for the last couple of years, so he’s likely Hilmi’s biggest challenger,” said Knott.

The tournament features men's and women’s open divisions, as well as over-45s - and it's open to all, even first-time players.

“It might seem intimidating to join the NSW Open as a beginner, but anyone can play at Jamberoo from 2pm most days,” said Knott.

“You’re welcome to get some practice in before tee-off next week.”

Spectators are also encouraged to come along, relax, and check out the action.

“Anyone can come and watch. Sit at the bar, enjoy the BBQ, and experience a unique and exciting sport in a beautiful setting.”