Born from a shared passion for making golf more welcoming, A Golf Collab was founded by Ric Carey, Cid Jones, and Andrew Ellis to create meaningful pathways into the game. What began in 2021 as a social media journey documenting their own golf experiences evolved into a community-driven movement focused on accessibility, inclusion, and connection. Through golf education, innovative events and experiences, A Golf Collab is redefining how new players engage with golf while opening doors for underrepresented communities. Guided by the belief that “Your Approach Matters,” the organization is helping reshape golf’s culture into one that is more diverse, approachable, and enjoyable for all.
At the 116th NAACP National Convention in Charlotte, NC (July 12th – 16th, 2025), the Sports & Wellness section of the HUB Exhibit Hall became more than a destination for attendees—it became a space where movement, mindset, culture, and community intersected. Among the standout experiences on the floor was the presence of A Golf Collab, a brand redefining how people experience the game of golf and who feels welcomed into it. The 116th Convention in Charlotte, NC yielded $17.9 million in economic impact, with over 8,000 attendees from all 50 states.
“The HUB is all about creating meaningful connections, creating opportunities, and exposing our community to a variety of experiences,” said Chandra Champion, Director of The HUB at the NAACP National Convention. “A Golf Collab did exactly that by introducing golf to our attendees in a fun, engaging, and accessible way. Watching people stop, participate, and learn about the game was incredible, especially our young people. Experiences like this can spark a lifelong passion or even inspire the next generation of golf professionals. We are grateful for their partnership and look forward to welcoming A Golf Collab back to THE HUB at the NAACP National Convention in Chicago this July.”
For more information concerning The HUB, please visit HERE.
A Golf Collab arrived at the NAACP convention with one mission: to create an experience that introduced golf in a way that felt approachable, inspiring, and inclusive. “We aim to showcase golf as more than just a sport—it’s a meaningful aspect of life,” mentioned Co-Founder Cid Jones. Through interactive engagement, conversation, and lifestyle storytelling, the company transformed its exhibit space into an environment where attendees could see golf differently—not simply as a sport, but as a lifestyle rooted in connection and opportunity.
That philosophy was evident in every aspect of the golf experience. Visitors were invited into a space designed to feel welcoming, where conversations extended beyond golf swings. The suite experience highlighted how golf can create pathways for relationship-building, personal growth, networking, wellness, and professional advancement.
“There were so many people that would have never picked up a club had we not taken the time to have a conversation with them first. Mostly it came down to doubt or concern of what they’d look like swinging the club for the first time,” mentioned Andrew Ellis when asked what he thought was the most impactful aspect of the experience.
Over 200 conference attendees completed an entry survey about the golf experience during the weekend. Survey participants were asked about their experience level, how often they play, and their interest in learning the game or receiving continued coaching. 74% either had no experience or were just starting their golf journey while 37% of survey participants said they had never golfed before the experience. Overall, 67% of participants expressed interest in golf lessons and coaching.
In an environment centered on sports and wellness, A Golf Collab’s presence added an important perspective: wellness is also about belonging. It is about creating spaces where people feel represented, empowered, and encouraged to participate in experiences that may have once felt inaccessible.
Whether attendees stopped by to learn about golf for the first time, connect with the team, or simply experience a fresh perspective on the sport, A Golf Collab left a lasting impression—and plans to do so again this year. If you’re in attendance at the 117th NAACP National Convention in Chicago (July 18th – 22nd, 2026) make sure to take part in the A Golf Collab Suite Experience where they hope to engage even more attendees with the game of golf. For more information on this year’s convention please visit naacp.org/convention.
