ABOUT US

JASON BEACH: PRESIDENT

Disc Golfer Since: 2020

2025 MDGC President Elect, Sponsored By Lone Star Disc (LT Team), TEEBOXSOX, Chuck Life Apparel, and Partner with Sierra Disc Golf Co. Jason Beach brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the Merced Disc Golf Club, with a background that spans from California to Las Vegas, NV, and Orlando, FL. Over the years, Jason has worked for renowned organizations such as Stevenson Golf Course, Roka Akor, and Walt Disney World. Pivoting toward the future, Jason is currently focusing his efforts on programs that have brought youth across the country excellent nutritional opportunities. He has managed operations, including large-scale arena concessions, and is now focused on a highly successful program valued at over $3 million annually.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Jason is deeply passionate about community service. He has volunteered for a variety of organizations, including serving as a former staff member for San Diego Comic-Con, Star Wars Celebration, WONDERCON, and 1000 Rated Productions OTB Open in Stockton. His dedication to service is reflected in his work with Rotary International, where he was honored as President of the Year, receiving commendations from the Rotary International World President. Jason has also been instrumental in founding parks and creating student and public access gardens, teaching agricultural practices, and promoting healthy food access for all.

From creating the plan that expanded and saved Fahrens from a Bike Park to advocating for an expanded parking lot, replacing all the baskets at Fahrens Park, working with the city to increase access and add security measures, and leading the charge to establish the Merced Disc Golf Club with Zach Wells, achieving the 501c3 that will allow the club to grow and evolve far into the future. With a vision to grow the sport and expand disc golf in Merced County as was the original vision of the club, Jason now works to continue updates to Fahrens Park. As a tournament director running some of the best events in the valley, he looks towards a future with a high profile event for Merced County, while also working closely with the County of Merced, City of Merced, and Merced Irrigation District in creating new parks at our local lakes.

With his extensive experience in operations, community service, and leadership, Jason is committed to the continued growth of the Merced Disc Golf Club and to promoting the sport throughout the region.

MANNY SANCHEZ: VICE-PRESIDENT

Disc Golfer Since: 2014

The OG, the Granddaddy of the Merced Disc Golf Club legacy—Manny Sanchez is the heart and soul of it all. For over a decade, Manny has been the driving force behind the club’s growth and the course’s evolution. From pouring his blood, sweat, and tears into its foundation to ensuring its future success, Manny has been the glue that holds it all together.

Whether he’s running the weekly events, organizing tournaments, or mentoring new players, Manny does it all—and always with a smile. A dedicated family man, loving father, incredible husband, and loyal friend, Manny is the kind of person everyone wants to be around. If you see him on the course, don’t hesitate to stop and say hi. Ask to join him for a round—he’s always ready to share tips and make you feel welcome.

Manny has been instrumental in leading the club through challenging upgrades, ensuring that as a team, we provide the best possible experience for everyone—from beginners discovering the sport to seasoned pros. Manny Sanchez isn’t just part of the club; he is the club.

SARAH BEACH: SECRETARY

Disc Golfer Since: 2020

My name is Sarah Beach and I have been a member of the Merced Disc Golf Club for a few years. I have been fortunate to be introduced to playing the sport of disc golf by a good friend in the summer of 2020 along with my family.  I have grown to love the sport wholeheartedly in all aspects of the game.  I enjoy casual games with friends where we don’t keep score but I also enjoy playing in tournaments.  In the recent year or so I have been more involved in the TD side of organizing and assisting with tournaments, which I very much enjoy.  This sport has been an avenue for my family to come closer together and to work together to create a better Fahrens.  Due to recent health and family circumstances I had taken quite a step back and wasn’t physically able to do much.  But I AM BACK! 2025 will be a year to remember and I’m so grateful to have the opportunity to create great memories with my friends (current and future) & family.    

I have worked in several different types of jobs but the one that is the most relevant to my role on the Merced Disc Golf Club Board as the Secretary is the one I have held the longest.  In 2009 I started out in a Middle School as a health aide.  Over the course of a year I applied for the Administrative Assistant position at an elementary school and I loved it! I was there for about 5 years and then became the Account Tech for Payroll in the district office.   I learned a lot there but only held that position for about 6 months before moving to Morgan Hill and working as an Executive Administrative Assistant for about 2 years. My husband (then boyfriend) and I moved back to the valley to his home town of Atwater and we’ve been here ever since (going on 8 years).  I have returned to the school site level as an office manager, which I truly love and am so fortunate to have found the sport of disc golf there (we actually have baskets on site and a disc golf club for our students!).  

The journey of establishing the club as a non profit and having a board and having true bylaws was my husband's ultimate goal.  He wanted to see Fahrens have the best course, best events, best everything! And we are not only on the path, we are so close to the finish line.  Creating a foundation for the club to flourish for years has been beneficial to what we can achieve.  I am very proud of the work he puts in!  But we would be nowhere, absolutely nowhere, without everyone who helps and puts themselves out there and sacrifices their time, their relationships, their physical wellbeing sometimes to help to create a better future.  It is my absolute pleasure to give my time to this cause.  I am grateful for all of the relationships I have made in this process and appreciate everyone who has played a round with me over the years! To many more!

CHRIS COOPER: TREASURER

Disc Golfer Since: 2017

As Treasurer of Merced Disc Golf Club, I have a passion for disc golf and sense of duty in financial stewardship to the organization. With experience in accounting and tax preparation, I will ensure the non-profit operates with transparency and fiscal responsibility.

I am a dedicated father and husband, but when I’m not at work, or with my family, you’re likely to find me on the course. I am committed to growing the sport and making it accessible to more players by working to expand the number of local courses.

I have been playing disc golf since 2017 when Micah introduced me to the sport. I started on hole one and by hole nine I knew this was my new obsession and became a member soon after. This will be my second year sponsored by Sierra Disc Golf Company on the Ridge Team and my first year on the Ranger team for Lone Star Disc. If you see me on the course, please don’t hesitate to stop me to say hi or ask any questions you may have. Let’s get in a round together!

LAWRENCE RAMIREZ III: CHAIR OF CLUB & COMMUNITY GROWTH

Disc Golfer Since: 2010

Club Member Since: 2020

I have been playing since the back side of the course was a dream, and since discovering the sport the club has made it a reality. I joined the club during 2020 when I had a little more free time to indulge in the sport and the club welcomed me with open arms. I would like to forward that opportunity to anyone that may be interested, whether it be relaxation, friendship, or competition. The club is growing fast and we stand on the shoulders of those who created the opportunity for us to carry on their legacy and make it what we all know it can become. I am thankful to be able to lend a helping hand to make our collective dreams come true.

A little about myself, I was born and raised in Merced, was in the military and have worked jobs that have taken me all across our beautiful country. With that being said, anyone would be hard-pressed to find a better group that has become a family within their own choosing, and I would like to continue what has been passed on to myself and others to build this club and community. I will strive to grow the love and competition of this sport and hopefully leave it in the hands of like-minded members that share the love and compassion for those around them. 

All are welcome, enjoy your time and pass it on.

JERRY RAY: CO-CHAIR DIRECTOR OF CLUB & COMMUNITY GROWTH

Disc Golfer Since: 2006

I have been playing disc golf since 2006 and have been a proud member of the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) since 2008. I am passionate about growing the sport and fostering a vibrant disc golf community. My focus lies in supporting the growth of disc golf locally and beyond with the Merced Disc Golf Club and its contributions to the community.

In addition to my love for disc golf, I have been an educator with the Merced County Office of Education (MCOE) since 2000. Beyond the classroom, I am also committed to community involvement, particularly through fundraising efforts that make a meaningful impact. My goal is to connect people, promote positive change, and build a stronger, more engaged community.