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The Elephant in the Room is $40 Million Dollars!

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Elephant in the Room

Let’s be honest…There are far more questions than answers right now on the new PGA bonus program the Tour is calling its Player Impact Program, which will be known going forward as the PIP. That’s right, we made it an acronym. That’s how we do!
 

What is the PIP:

Well, first It’s worth noting that the tour did not publicly announce the program. That’s right, a silent roll out of a HUGE bonus program paying out a whopping $40 million to select 10 players deemed to do the most to boost publicity and engagement for the game and the PGA Tour. The news rather was broken by Golfweek and then confirmed by tour officials. That got us thinking…Why? Why the hush hush, this is a big deal! Maybe because the idea was to reward the one percenters? Maybe because they weren’t sure how it would be received. Either way, it feels a little hush hush and begs the question…what’s the deal with this and why is it important to the tour?
 
All that being said, we have a few questions:
 

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1. Where is the tour getting this lump sum of stashed loot?

Its not like it’s a few grand laying around, its $40 million! As it stands, there’s no corporate sponsor and there’s not likely to be one, if only because Fred Smith, the CEO of FedEx, which has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in the tour dating to 2007, would probably lose his mind if PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan stood up and proudly proclaimed a new multi-million-dollar corporate partnership (Think Elon Musk) in order to pay 10 players millions of dollars.
 

2. As it is, I am curious how in the heck FedEx, whose contract with the tour runs for the next 6 years, will react to a new program that rewards players for being – wait for it…popular?

 Flawed as the FedEx Cup playoff system is, the hundreds of millions the company has invested has incentivized the top players to keep playing through the end of the summer. In years past, many would simply take a break or “mail it in” after the last major championship is over. To be fair, that was precisely the point when then-commissioner Tim Finchem negotiated FedEx to sign on in the first place. FedEx and the PGA Tour are in bed so deep that the FedEx logo is imbedded in the floor of the lobby inside the tour’s new multi-million-dollar headquarters.
 

3. Here’s the catch: the tour laid off about 50 employees last summer in the midst of the pandemic.

Now, however, they apparently have $40 million laying around to spend on 10 of its wealthiest players. Essentially saying: “We will just go ahead and chip off what we need of the gold bar and close up the old safe when we’re done”. Now, we are not getting political here, but It’s also worth noting that the tour would not move the Tour Championship out of Atlanta in the wake of the Georgia legislature passing a controversial voting-rights bill because leaving the area would harm local charities. Sooooo, why couldn’t the tour take a chunk of that $40 million, give it to the charities it benefits in the Atlanta region and move the tournament someplace else? Not saying that’s what should have been done, but it is worth an argument that Major League Baseball did exactly that when it announced it was moving the All-Star game out of Atlanta soon after the bill was passed?
 

4. Therein lies the next question: Why spend $40 million this way anyway?

Aren’t there a myriad of other, more worthwhile things, the money could can be used for other than handing out millions to a small group of men who are already multi-millionaires? The tour constantly cites its charitable giving—which to be completely fair is very generous and quite substantial. This is not an indictment on the tour but rather an open letter asking the question couldn’t all or some of that $40 million be better spent? Maybe give more to charity, Maybe support local junior golf initiatives, Maybe supporting families affected by Covid-19, shoot I can think of a dozen or so other ways to spend such a nest egg. There’s no such thing as enough when it comes to charities, especially nowadays in the wake of the pandemic.
 
MORE: Tour pros reaction to PGA Tour bonus pool: ‘There’s a little bit of envy’
 
Here’s an idea: The tour could use some of the money to increase purses at some of its lower-profile tournaments, where the bigger names don’t show up, alluring some bigger names and thus increasing interest amongst the golf community, better TV ratings and overall better golf. Right now, there are four major championships, three playoff events, four WGCs and the Players Championship that stars are expected to play. That’s 12 tournaments in 52 weeks. Really? That essentially means a top player only needs to play three more times to meet his minimum of 15 events per year. While I love incentives, The PIP does nothing to encourage the tour’s stars to play in more tournaments, or tournaments that could use their needle-moving power.
 
It seems obvious the PIP is simply a reaction to the threat of the proposed Premier Golf League, which was first publicly discussed a year ago. The PGL model calls for 18 events in a season for huge money (reportedly $240 million) each year. But despite all of the financial enticements, a handful of top-ranked players, including Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka, have already went on record saying they weren’t interested, stymieing the tour’s launch.

 
The very idea of the PGL clearly scared the tour, and in my humble opinion, the PIP appears to be a direct response to that concept: If we give top players millions for doing nothing on top of the millions they are already making, they won’t be tempted by the “currently conceptual” PGL. It’s an overreaction to something that doesn’t even exist at the moment.
 
That said, it’s worth noting who might be among the 10 players in line this year to receive the $40 million in bonuses the tour is going to hand out.
 
Presumably Tiger Woods is No. 1 on the list (because the tour hasn’t made any ranking public) even though he is recovering from his horrific car accident. Woods is often the most mentioned on social-media platforms that the tour proposes to use to measure, and I am finger quoting here, “impact”. If that’s the case, he still arguably receives more attention than anyone who is actually playing golf right now.
 

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Here is what Tiger has done to the game…Years ago, when Woods was the No. 1 player in the world by leaps and bounds, Tommy Roy, NBC’s longtime golf executive producer, told me that a survey the network had done asked viewers this question: “Would you rather watch any other player hitting a shot or watch Tiger Woods leaning on his bag waiting for his turn to play?” According to Roy, 45 percent of viewers said they’d rather watch Woods talk club selection with then-caddie Steve Williams.
 
Woods is 45 now and no one knows if he will ever play in a PGA Tour event again, I for one believe we will see him peg it in 2022. Even with that there are still legions of fans who would rather read one of his tweets than watch Stewart Cink win at Hilton Head—all due respect Cink, whose comeback story is truly inspiring.
 
Now, guess who probably should be No. 2 on the list, if popularity is the measure? How about Charlie Woods. OK, he’s not eligible (yet) but think about the interest his presence at the PNC Challenge last December created among the media, TV, print, digital, social and otherwise. Of course, I’m kidding that Charlie should be paid for the engagement he helped bring the tour, but I bring him up to make the point that paying competitive athletes (or their children) based on popularity is ludicrous.
 
MORE: These are funny social-media posts from pros already gunning for the tour’s bonus pool cash
 
You know who else is clearly in the top 10, perhaps the top five? Rickie Fowler. Yes, I said it. Captain Orange. He is currently ranked 109th in the world and 128th on the FedEx points list. Remember, this isn’t about playing well, it’s about being popular. Fowler hasn’t been seen in a late group on Sunday in a long time, but he’s still on TV selling product non-stop and has a strong social-media presence. Plus, he’s a genuinely nice guy. Everyone loves Rickie, regardless of his struggles inside the ropes.
 
Bryson DeChambeau, aka Popeye, the sailor man, as well as Brooks Koepka, aka Brooksie would both certainly make the list for their feud and the attention it drew on social media. Bryson also won the U.S. Open last September, he now looks like a young Arnold Schwarznegger and could probably compete with Kyle Berkshire for length.
 
DJ, Rory, Spieth, Lefty (yes, at almost 51 Phil Mickelson) JT are likely to crack the list. Adam Scott? Perhaps given his appeal among men and women and his playoff finish at the Wyndham. Patrick Reed? Well, lets not get ahead of ourselves…Probably not so much unless it is during a Ryder Cup week and American fans are chanting, “USA,” every time he holes a putt. Then we love you Patrick any other week, not so much.
 
What about Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama? If this was Japan, he would be No. 1 by a massive margin. But it’s not. Collin Morikawa, the PGA champion and probably the best young player in golf? Maybe, maybe not. He’s just a superb player, an extremely bright guy and personable as they come. But he’s not big on social media. Get cracking Colin!
 
The larger point isn’t so much who will or will not be on the list. It’s the question again of why spend $40 million to make a bunch of very rich guys richer? To get them to sign more autographs or go on social media more often? Seriously? It’s flailing at an opponent who doesn’t even exist at the moment. It is just about the worst idea since New Coke. With luck, it will go away just about as quickly. Bye Felicia!

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Legendary Golf Coaches and Their Signature Teaching Techniques

A Deep Dive into the Art of Golf Coaching. There are few sports as mentally challenging and technically nuanced as golf.

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There are few sports as mentally challenging and technically nuanced as golf. The game demands a unique blend of physical precision, mental resilience, and strategic insight. As such, the role of a golf coach extends far beyond mere swing mechanics and course management. They also play a crucial part in shaping the mindset and overall approach of the player. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the profound impact that legendary golf coaches have had on the sport, highlighting their signature teaching styles that have produced world-class golfers and changed the face of golf across generations.

Butch Harmon: The Guru of Simplification

Butch Harmon is a name that resonates with any serious golf enthusiast. Known for his work with Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, and Greg Norman, Harmon’s coaching style is characterized by its simplicity. He focuses on making the swing as effortless as possible, keeping technical jargon to a minimum and emphasizing feel and natural movement. His approach has proven successful, with his students winning numerous major championships.

David Leadbetter: The Technician

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David Leadbetter, renowned for his work with Nick Faldo, is often considered a technician in golf coaching. He pays great attention to minute details of the swing, believing that consistency and efficiency come from mastering the fundamentals. Leadbetter introduced the “A Swing,” a technique designed to simplify the golf swing while increasing efficiency and reducing strain on the body.

Hank Haney: The Strategist

Best known for his six-year coaching tenure with Tiger Woods, Hank Haney is a strategist at heart. Haney emphasizes the importance of course management and strategic decision-making, helping players choose the best shot for any given situation. His teaching style aims to help players understand their strengths and weaknesses, thereby maximizing scoring opportunities on the course.

Sean Foley: The Modernist

Sean Foley represents a new wave of golf coaching, blending traditional golf instruction with modern technology. Notably, he uses advanced tools like 3D motion analysis and Trackman to provide detailed feedback on swing mechanics. Foley, who has worked with players like Justin Rose and Tiger Woods, believes in a holistic approach, incorporating physical fitness and mental preparation into his coaching regimen.

Pete Cowen: The Philosopher

Pete Cowen, known for his work with major winners like Brooks Koepka and Graeme McDowell, approaches golf coaching from a philosophical perspective. Cowen’s teaching style emphasizes the importance of mental strength, discipline, and a strong work ethic. He believes in building a solid foundation, focusing on short game and wedge play, and then working up to full swings.

Legendary golf coaches like Butch Harmon, David Leadbetter, Hank Haney, Sean Foley, and Pete Cowen have left an indelible mark on the sport. Their unique teaching styles, whether it be simplification, technical precision, strategic insight, technological innovation, or philosophical approach, have helped shape the careers of many world-class golfers. Aspiring golfers and coaches can learn a great deal from their methodologies, applying these lessons to improve their own game or coaching style. After all, golf is not just about the swing; it’s about the approach, both on and off the course.

Want to improve your own game?

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Ryder Cup Revelry: A Long Island Love Story (Sort Of)

Did the Ryder Cup fans on Long Island get too loud? Ty Webb talks the rowdy few vs. the quiet majority. Time for some course correction! 🏌️‍♂️

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Well, another Ryder Cup is in the books. And while the scoreboard didn’t exactly sing a sweet American victory tune, the fans… oh, the fans. They certainly hit a high note, even if it was occasionally a little off-key and yelled with a thick Long Island accent.

For those of you who spent the weekend blissfully unaware of the happenings near the big city, let me set the scene. The ultimate transatlantic golf showdown landed in our backyard—specifically, on Long Island, New York. And when you put a major sporting event in a place known for a certain… enthusiasm (and perhaps a few loud opinions about how to drive on the LIE), things are bound to get interesting.

Now, before the entire Tri-State area cancels my membership (if I even had one), let me clarify. Golf fans, by and large, are the best. They appreciate a great shot, know when to clap, and generally understand that “Hole in One!” is not, in fact, an acceptable battle cry on the tee box.

But then there’s the Ryder Cup. It’s like a regular golf tournament went to a party, had too many energy drinks, and decided to wear a very loud, oversized foam Statue of Liberty hat.

The Long Island Effect

Let’s be honest. Long Island has a reputation. We’re talking about people who love their sports, are fiercely loyal, and occasionally view volume control as a suggestion, not a rule. They’re the kind of fans who make you feel like you should be ordering a hot dog with “the works” and shouting “Yankees!” even if it’s a golf tournament.

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This weekend, that famed Long Island swagger was on full display. We saw a few… vocal individuals who clearly believed that the European players needed to be personally informed of every single American’s opinion regarding their putting stroke. Were there chants? You bet. Were there questionable fashion choices in red, white, and blue? Oh, absolutely. I’m pretty sure I saw one guy wearing a Captain America cape and trying to do a chest bump with a security guard.

My advice to those particular patrons? Learn a thing or two from the Zen of the fairway. As I always say, “Nirvana is not as far as you think.” Or, in this case, “Maybe just applaud the guy’s bogey and move on.”

The Quiet Majority

Here’s the thing that often gets lost in the hullabaloo, especially when a broadcast camera zeroes in on the three loudest guys in the grandstands: Most American golf fans were fantastic.

For every chap heckling a European player (which, by the way, is not what golf is about, fellas), there were a hundred others politely murmuring their appreciation, setting a fine example, and genuinely enjoying the world-class golf being played. They’re the silent, appreciative backbone of the gallery—the ones who understand that the real drama is between the golfer and the ball, not between the spectator and his blood alcohol level.

The U.S. is a big place, and our golf culture is deep and respectful. We don’t all act like we’re waiting for the Islanders to score a game-winner. In fact, most of us look at those over-the-top antics and shake our heads with a wry smile, thinking, “Oh, those guys. They must be from the Island.”

A Lesson in Chill

So, to my fellow Americans who might have earned us a reputation for being the loudest kids in the sandbox this weekend: Take a breath. Take a page out of my book. Be the ball. Let the good vibrations flow.

Next time, maybe we could exchange the constant cheering for the serene sound of a well-struck iron. And perhaps trade in that enormous foam finger for a nice, understated pair of sunglasses.

We love the passion, we love the patriotism, but let’s remember that golf is a gentleman’s game. Even when it’s played by guys who might still think a nine-iron is something you use to fight off traffic on the Southern State Parkway.

Keep it classy, America. And maybe next time, let’s win the Cup quietly—or at least, with a little less yelling and a lot more accurate putts.

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Fore! Reasons Your Golf Cart Needs a Glow-Up (and How to Do It)

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Let’s be honest. We all love the game, the fresh air, the occasional well-struck shot that makes us feel like a temporary Rory McIlroy. But what about the unsung hero of our weekend rounds? The trusty, sometimes rusty, golf cart. For too long, these magnificent machines have been relegated to mere utility. A box on wheels to get us from the pro shop to the first tee and back again. Well, I say no more! It’s time to infuse some personality, some pizzazz, some… us into our golf cart experience. Because a golf cart isn’t just a ride; it’s an extension of our golfing soul.

Think about it. We obsess over driver lofts, putter grips, and the perfect golf fashion ensemble. We want to look good, feel good, and play good. Why should our golf cart be any different? It’s often the first and last impression we make on the course, a mobile clubhouse, and sometimes, let’s be real, a temporary confessional after a particularly brutal triple bogey. So, if you’re ready to ditch the drab and embrace the fab, here are four compelling reasons your golf cart needs a serious glow-up, along with some hacker-approved tips to get you started.

1. Stand Out from the Rough (Literally)

Golf courses are a sea of sameness when it comes to carts. White, beige, maybe a splash of green if you’re lucky. But what if your cart announced your arrival with a flourish? Imagine pulling up to the tee box in a cart that screams “I’m here to have fun and maybe even sink a few putts!” A personalized cart isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about making a statement. It’s about showing off your golf passion even before you hit your first drive.

Hacker Hack: Start with a custom paint job or some snazzy vinyl wraps. Think bold stripes, a subtle argyle pattern, or even a replica of your favorite golf course’s logo. For the truly committed golf enthusiast, consider some underglow LED lights. Not only do they look cool, but they also make those twilight rounds a whole lot more exciting. Don’t forget custom golf cart wheels and tires; they can completely transform the look and feel of your golf cart.

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2. Boost Your On-Course Comfort (and Cool Factor)

Let’s face it, golf can be a long day. Hours spent traversing fairways, searching for wayward shots, and waiting for slow groups. Why not make those hours as comfortable as possible? A basic golf cart seat might suffice, but a souped-up one? That’s next-level golf life. We’re talking about enhancing your overall golf experience.

Hacker Hack: Invest in some premium, upholstered golf cart seats. Think marine-grade vinyl for durability and comfort. Add a custom steering wheel for better grip and a more luxurious feel. And for those scorching summer days, a golf cart fan is an absolute game-changer. You can even install a small cooler to keep your beverages chilled, making you the most popular person in your foursome. Consider a golf cart enclosure for those unexpected rain showers or chilly mornings, keeping you dry and warm.

3. Unleash Your Inner Technophile (and Score Better?)

Who says technology is just for your golf swing analyzer? Your golf cart can be a hub of innovation, making your rounds smoother, more enjoyable, and dare I say, potentially lowering your handicap. From GPS systems to rocking sound setups, there’s a world of golf cart tech waiting to be explored. We’re talking about smart golf accessories for your golf cart.

Hacker Hack: Integrate a golf GPS system directly into your dash. No more fumbling with your phone or rangefinder. Install a Bluetooth sound system so you can enjoy your favorite golf podcasts or pump up the jams between holes. And for the ultimate convenience, consider USB charging ports for your phone or other golf gadgets. Some golf carts even offer built-in ball washers and club cleaners, keeping your golf equipment pristine.

4. Express Your Golfing Personality (and Start Conversations)

Your golf cart is a canvas. It’s an opportunity to showcase your unique golf style and personality. Are you a traditionalist? A wild card? A minimalist? Your cart can reflect that. It’s a fantastic conversation starter and a way to connect with other golfers who appreciate a bit of flair. It’s all about golf cart customization and golf cart accessories that speak to you.

Hacker Hack: Personalize your golf cart with custom floor mats, a unique dash panel, or even a personalized license plate (check your local course rules first!). Add some fun decals or stickers that reflect your golfing sense of humor. A custom golf bag attachment can also add a touch of individuality. The possibilities for golf cart upgrades are endless, from practical additions like a sand bottle for divot repair to purely aesthetic touches.

So, next time you’re about to hop into that plain, run-of-the-mill golf cart, think about the potential. Think about the golf cart accessories, golf cart parts, and golf cart upgrades that can transform it into something truly special. Your golf cart isn’t just transportation; it’s an experience. It’s an extension of your golfing journey, and it deserves to shine as brightly as your best golf shot. Now go forth, hackers, and give your golf cart the glow-up it deserves!

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