Biography of Alexander Van Alen: Founder & CEO of FlingGolf -Entrepreneur
Biography of Alexander Van Alen
Rise of FlingGolf: A New Era in Alternative Golf Sports
Alexander Van Alen, an outdoor enthusiast and entrepreneur,
is the Founder and CEO of New Swarm and Chairman of World League FlingGolf. His
passion for land conservation and outdoor recreation led him to create
FlingGolf, an innovative sport that combines elements of golf, lacrosse, and
other dynamic games. With a strong background in environmental conservation and
ecology, Alex has dedicated his career to making outdoor activities more
accessible and engaging for a wider audience.
From Childhood Game to Global Sport
The concept of FlingGolf originated from a backyard game
Alex played as a child, blending golf and lacrosse. He later developed the
FlingStick, a specialized thrower that allows players to launch a golf ball
with strength and precision. Unlike traditional golf, which requires multiple
clubs, FlingGolf is played with just one stick, making it more accessible and
easy to learn. This simplicity and athletic appeal have fueled its rapid growth
among players of all ages.
The Birth of New Swarm and FlingGolf
In 2013, Alex founded New Swarm, a company dedicated to
developing and promoting FlingGolf. The company not only manufactures and sells
the patented FlingStick but also actively works to introduce the sport to golf
courses around the world. By providing an exciting alternative to traditional
golf, New Swarm has successfully brought new energy and a fresh player base to
over 2,000 courses across more than 35 countries.
A Unique Sporting Experience
FlingGolf is designed to be played on existing golf courses,
allowing players to hurl a golf ball towards the hole using their FlingStick.
The sport emphasizes athleticism, creativity, and skill, making it an appealing
option for those looking for a faster-paced, less equipment-heavy alternative
to golf. With no need for major course modifications, golf course owners have
embraced the sport as a way to attract new players and increase revenue.
The Shark Tank Breakthrough
In May 2021, Alex and his team took FlingGolf to ABC’s Shark
Tank, where they pitched their innovative sport to investors. The exposure
helped boost awareness, leading to a surge in interest from players and golf
courses alike. The investment and mentorship from the show played a crucial
role in expanding New Swarm’s reach and solidifying FlingGolf as a legitimate
alternative sport.
Making Waves on ESPN
FlingGolf’s rapid rise in popularity caught the attention of
major sports networks, leading to its national television debut on ESPN in
August 2022. The event, known as the World League FlingGolf New Swarm Classic,
showcased the sport’s competitive side and drew in a new wave of enthusiasts.
The following year, in 2023, the sport returned to ESPN with the WLF San Diego
Open, further cementing its place in the sports world.
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The Formation of World League FlingGolf
Recognizing the need for a structured competitive platform,
Alex established the World League FlingGolf (WLF) in July 2021. As Chairman, he
has overseen the growth of the league, which now hosts high-profile tournaments
featuring top players from around the world. WLF provides an exciting avenue
for athletes to showcase their skills while attracting sponsorships and media
attention.
Expanding the Sport’s Reach
Under Alex’s leadership, New Swarm and WLF have worked to
make FlingGolf more accessible to a global audience. The company collaborates
with golf courses, resorts, municipalities, and military bases to introduce the
sport to new players. By aligning with major stakeholders, FlingGolf has
expanded its footprint across continents, making it a recognized name in
alternative sports.
A Sport for All Ages
One of the key appeals of FlingGolf is its inclusivity.
Unlike traditional golf, which can be complex and require years of practice,
FlingGolf is easy to learn and play. It attracts athletes from diverse
backgrounds, including lacrosse, hockey, and baseball players, who find its
mechanics familiar and engaging. The sport also welcomes casual players who are
simply looking for a fun, active way to enjoy a golf course.
Military and Recreational Adoption
FlingGolf has found a strong following among military
personnel and recreational sports enthusiasts. Its physical nature and
strategic gameplay make it an ideal sport for those seeking a challenge beyond
traditional golf. Several military bases and community recreation centers have
adopted FlingGolf as part of their sports offerings, further broadening its
player base.
The Role of Profluence Sports
In September 2024, Alex joined Profluence Sports, a
community focused on revolutionizing the sports industry through innovation and
entrepreneurship. As a founding member, he continues to push the boundaries of
alternative sports and promote FlingGolf’s growth on a global scale. His
involvement with Profluence further connects FlingGolf to emerging sports
trends and investment opportunities.
The Road to International Recognition
FlingGolf’s journey reached another milestone in June 2024
with its first official international tournament, the Britain’s Cup. The event,
hosted by FlingGolf UK, saw Team USA and Team UK compete in a thrilling match,
marking a significant step toward global recognition. This international
expansion has opened doors for new competitions and collaborations in different
country
A Family Passion
Beyond his professional role, Alex is deeply passionate
about outdoor sports and recreation. He enjoys playing FlingGolf with his wife
and two sons, who share his enthusiasm for the game. Whether on the course or
exploring the open water, the Van Alen family embodies the adventurous spirit
that FlingGolf represents.
The Future of FlingGolf
Looking ahead, Alex and his team at New Swarm are focused on
making FlingGolf one of the most widely played sports on golf courses
worldwide. With continued television exposure, international expansion, and
growing player participation, FlingGolf is set to become a permanent fixture in
the world of alternative sports. As the game evolves, its core mission remains
the same—bringing more fun, excitement, and accessibility to golf courses
everywhere.
Timeline for story
Childhood – Alex Van Alen invents a backyard game blending
golf and lacrosse.
2013 – Founding of New Swarm to develop and promote
FlingGolf.
July 2021 – Establishment of World League FlingGolf (WLF).
May 2021 – FlingGolf appears on Shark Tank, gaining
investment and exposure.
August 2022 – FlingGolf debuts on ESPN with the New Swarm
Classic.
2023 – WLF San Diego Open airs on ESPN.
June 2024 – First international tournament, Britain's Cup,
held in the UK.
September 2024 – Alex joins Profluence Sports to further
innovate in sports.
