The year was 2010. The event - The release of Cornhole: The Movie. A simple promotional radio appearance by American Cornhole Organization founder and president Frank ‘The Cornhole Dude’ Geers on the 96ROCK (WFTK-fm) Cincinnati ‘Fin and Mistress Bridget Morning Show’ set the table for what would become the next innovation and advancement for the game and the sport of cornhole; the creation of the TACO (Talking ACO podcast). The morning show interview connected Geers with show co-host Michael ‘Fin’ Walter (at the time a 20+ year radio veteran); a connection that would forever change the way cornhole would be consumed, covered and shared with the world.
Frank and ‘Fin’ immediately struck up a friendship that evolved into a professional relationship spawning the TACO, a weekly audio podcast which debuted prior to the launch of ACO Season XI (2015) that discussed all things ACO and cornhole. It was then that the Cornhole Dude and Fin, the ‘Loudmouth of the ACO’ launched what has been the longest running cornhole podcast in the world. Topics ranged from ACO history, events, Major results, sponsorship opportunities, player and city spotlights and more. Guests were welcomed and listener questions were addressed. The appetite for cornhole was just being whetted, and Frank and Fin, along with Executive Producer Eric Hinerman, were there to feed it.
Over the years, and after 100 episodes the TACO burst from its audio cocoon, and spread its wings as a video webcast, a weekly format that continues to this day. The TACO Cornhole webcast continues to welcome guests via video link and recorded segments as well as highlighting photos, graphics, products, video clips from ACO regional and Major tournaments and more contributed by ACO Certified Official Directors, city partners and players.
The success of the TACO played a major role in the development of the ACO Digital Network and the nationwide streaming program that has further fed the ever-growing appetite for competitive cornhole content. The TACO has always been and will continue to be a celebration of the game, the sport and its created community. Best summarized by the ACO Loudmouth, Michael ‘Fin’ Walter: “We talk the talk about how the ACO Family walks the (27ft) walk” Visit the TACO Today!
The Rise of Competitive Cornhole: ACO at the Helm
The American Cornhole Organization (ACO) has transformed cornhole from a casual pastime into a recognized competitive sport. Founded in 2005 by Frank Geers, “The Cornhole Dude,” the ACO has standardized equipment, cornhole rules, and formats, establishing itself as the sport's governing body of the sport of cornhole.
From its early days, the ACO focused on formalizing cornhole. In 2006, it hosted the Carson Palmer Cornhole Classic and the first Nationals Championship in Northern Kentucky, introducing individual competition with the King or Queen of Cornhole titles. This innovation paved the way for a nationwide tour and elevated the sport's competitive landscape.
A major turning point was the ACO’s development of specialized equipment. The shift from corn-filled to resin-filled bags improved durability and performance, while the dual-sided ACO PlayersChoice Cornhole Bag, introduced in 2008, allowed players to make more strategic shots. Other innovations, like the Frame Game and airmail box, added depth to gameplay.
The ACO has also created ranking and handicapping systems to ensure fairness and transparency. Its signature events, such as the ACO Majors and Pro Series Tours, attract players nationwide. In March 2024, the ACO held its first international tournament, the ACO Europe Major in Manchester, UK, highlighting its growing global reach.
Inclusivity has been central to the ACO’s mission. Partnering with the National Senior Games Association, the ACO included cornhole in senior events and developed Adaptive Cornhole formats for players of all abilities, ensuring the sport remains accessible to everyone.
Media has played a significant role in the ACO’s growth. Notable milestones include ESPN coverage of the ACO World Championships and Cornhole: The Movie, which featured ACO branding. Digital platforms like YouTube and podcasts, including ACO Hole Nation and TACO (Talkin’ ACO), further expand the organization’s reach, engaging fans and fostering community.
https://www.youtube.com/live/4n2o96grWd0?si=uAjfMCIVkDz2CXRq
A hallmark achievement was the declaration of ACO World Cornhole Day in 2020, celebrated annually on the last Saturday of July. This day honors the sport's history, community, and evolution, underscoring the ACO’s efforts to promote cornhole as a celebration of skill, tradition, and camaraderie.
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For more information about American Cornhole, contact the company here:
American Cornhole
Michael "Fin" Walter
513.919.1001
fin@americancornhole.com
American Cornhole Organization (ACO)
7832 Glendale Milford Rd
Camp Dennison, Ohio 45111
United States
