On the rise is Allyn Stephens, who has qualified for the USGA Girls Junior Amateur.
Allyn Stephens (photo courtesy Cedric Smith)
Allyn Stephens (photo courtesy Cedric Smith)
(L-R) Eric Hardy, Renee Powell (PGA.LPGA), Bill Neal and Janice Fuller.
BY AAGD STAFF
“The Pioneer Tournament was wonderful this year. I LOVE your course and the genius of many of its design features!!!!” exclaimed avid golfer Eric Hardy, when recapping his round at Clearview Golf Course during the 17th Annual Pioneer Golf Tournament. The 36-hole challenge, managed annually by Jessie Brooks and Ron Fuller, was held June 22-23 at the historic landmark golf course in East Canton, Ohio. The famed course is owned and operated by the Powell family, where Renee Powell (PGA/LPGA) serves as Head Golf Professional.
Enjoying a friendly chat (back row, l-r) Pat Dunbar, Renee Powell (front row, l-r) Janice Fuller and Debert Cook at Clearview Golf Course, East Canton, Ohio on June 22, 2019
Over 80 golfers from across the country came to play the pristine rolling hills of Clearview G.C. and afterward enjoyed festivities which included a Friday night reception, Saturday B.B.Q. lunch, raffle prizes, and more. During Hardy’s visit, he had the opportunity to meet Bill Neal and his lovely wife, owners of Woodridge Golf Club, Mineral Wells, West Virginia, one of less than a half-dozen of African American owned golf courses in the nation. “I am scheduling a round of golf at his course (Woodbridge) this September,” plans Hardy.
The Pioneer Golf Tournament was formed to inform the public about The Clearview Golf Club and supports The Clearview Legacy Foundation.
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BY JAMES BEATTY
(July 1, 2019)
I was invited to attend the Rocket Mortgage Classic by the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC), a 501(c)(4) which has been Detroit’s lead agency for business retention, attraction, and economic development since 1978. DEGC provides general economic development services and management services for the various governmental authorities it administers.
In my role as a corporate site consultant, as well as serving as Executive Editor at the African American Golfer’s Digest, I am often invited to communities and cities across the USA and internationally. It was my pleasure to visit Detroit and learn more about this bustling Motor city and to enjoy the Rocket Mortage Classic golf tournament.
Kevin Johnson. President and CEO, Detroit Economic Growth Corporation
For nearly 40 years, DEGC has served as the lead nonprofit economic development entity in Detroit. DEGC is governed by a 42-member Board of Directors consisting of civic leaders, corporate executives, government officials and other stakeholders. The DEGC President and CEO is Mr. Kevin Johnson, an African American, and a longtime friend of mine. Kevin has a long history of business success and he is considered one of the top economic development leaders in America.
DEGC is considered a critical citywide tool in deploying both place-based and job creation strategies. DEGC works to support existing businesses and bring new companies and investments to the city. From identifying potential development sites and negotiating development agreements, to managing construction projects and eliminating obstacles to growth, DEGC is dedicated to being an advocate for businesses large and small. DEGC is Detroit’s economic development expert and a one-stop shop for both emerging and expanding businesses.
Detroit’s strength as a business location is evident through its successes. Since 2012, Detroit has seen almost $1 billion invested in automotive manufacturing at new and existing suppliers and $96 million invested in over 14 full-service grocery stores. Downtown Detroit’s office vacancy rate has fallen 12 percent in the past five years to 17.5 percent. Additionally, according to the 2014-2015 Annual Michigan Venture Capital Fund Research report, Detroit is becoming a new focal point of venture capital activity, with 24 firms receiving $186 million in investment. Over 52 percent of those are tech-related.
Detroit has chosen to show off its assets through golf for the world to see. Clever, absolutely there are so many reasons why it is so apropos for Detroit to host its first PGA event ever as the African American golf DNA in Detroit is deeply rooted.
Mark Denson
Senior Director
Detroit Economic Growth Corporation
I would be remiss if I did not mention and thank my host and tour guide, Mark Denson, a native Detroiter, who on his paper route as a youth delivered the daily Detroit News newspaper to Aretha Franklin. And, Mark’s mother was a seamstress for the Supremes, sewing and altering costumes for the Motown female hit group. Today, Mark is the Senior Director of Existing Business and Operations for DEGC.
Detroit Golf Facts
Did you know…
AAGD Winter 2006 Issue
Calvin Peete was a Detroit native. He was also the most successful African American to have played on the PGA Tour, with 12 wins, prior to the emergence of Tiger Woods. Peete won the 1985 Tournament Players Championship and finished the season top-5 on the PGA Tour money list three times; 1982, 1983 and 1985. He played on the 1983 and 1985 U.S. Ryder Cup teams. He won the Vardon Trophy for lowest scoring average in 1984. He was in the top 10 of the Official World Golf Ranking for several weeks when they debuted in 1986.
For 10 years, from 1981-1990, Peete led the Tour in driving accuracy. In 1983, he hit an astounding 84.55 percent of fairways in 87 PGA Tour rounds.
Joseph Louis Barrow, also known as Joe Louis, reigned as the world heavyweight champion from 1937 to 1949 and is considered to be one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time. In 1941, in his hometown of Detroit, Louis sponsored the Joe Louis Open. He not only donated a $1,000 purse but paid the entry fees and transportation costs of golfer who otherwise could not afford to play.
In 1952, Louis was invited to play in the San Diego Open, but the PGA’s “Caucasian-Only” membership clause in its bylaws prevented such an entry. Louis confronted tournament officials and after an emergency meeting, Louis was allowed to compete as an exempt amateur. Louis wasn’t the only African American golfer attempting to enter that week. His friend, professional Bill Spiller had qualified but was not allowed to play.
Joe Louis became the first person of color to compete in a PGA-sanctioned event. The New York Times reported on Jan. 16, 1952, that Louis said that he would continue his fight “to eliminate racial prejudice from golf, the last sport in which it now exists.”
Louis posted a first round 76 while playing in a group that included two-time Masters Champion and PGA President Horton Smith, who had a 73. The next day after Louis turned in an 82 and Smith a 78, both missed the 36-hole cut. Source: PGA.com
AAGD Summer 2017 Issue
In fairness, I have to mention that former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick, who graced the AAGD Summer 2017 cover, was also an avid golfer.
The Detroit Golf Club (DGC), the site of the Rocket Mortgage Classic has its own history as it relates to golf and African Americans.
Founded in 1899, DGC sits on 220 acres of wooded landscape, just west of Palmer Park on the city’s westside. It is located behind large Colonial and Tudor homes on Hamilton Rd., south of W. 7 Mile Rd. It is located within the city limits of Detroit, versus the suburbs like most private and country golf clubs across the nation, making DGC totally unique.
Horton Smith who won the first Masters Tournament in 1934 and again in 1936 became the club pro at Detroit Golf Club in Michigan in 1946. He was also the playing partner of Joe Louis in the 1952 San Diego Open.
DGC also has one of the nation’s most diverse memberships. It was estimated that in 2015 that 10% of DGC membership was African American.
Here are some other notable DGC facts of particular interest.
Walter Watkins, a prominent banking executive in the region, was the first African American to receive full membership to the DGC, about six months after Mayor Coleman Young broke the organization’s color barrier in 1986 as a social member without golfing privileges. In 2003, Walter C. Elliott Jr.was elected as the first African American president of DGC.
In October 2014, Lane Coleman, an African American, and global entrepreneur served as president of the historic Detroit Golf Club (DGC) and chairman of its board. Source: MichiganChronicle.com
Harold Varner III, who turned pro in 2012 missed the cut while shooting -2.
Varner is averaging 302.3 yards in driving distance and 58.59% in driving accuracy. He has earned $970,675 this season
Joe Louis Barrow Jr, son of Joe Louis served 18 years as CEO of the First Tee retiring in 2017.
“I have the greatest respect for Joe Barrow. He’s done a fantastic job of leading The First Tee. Without Joe, The First Tee, I don’t think, would have gotten where it is.”—World Golf Hall of Fame golfer and Trustee of the First Tee, Jack Nicklaus.
Selina Johnson, a Detroit native and founder of the Hollywood Golf Institute in 1983. Selina Johnson is the first African American woman to ever to receive the prestigious Carl Walker Award for outstanding contributions to junior golf. Ms. Johnson is also in the International Afro-American Sports Hall of Fame based in Detroit, Michigan and the African American Golfers’ Hall of Fame “West Palm Beach.” Through her Hollywood Golf Institute, Selina Johnson has introduced over 4,000 young people to the sport of golf.
Renee Fluker, in 2001, while working as a social worker and single mother, founded Midnight Golf. The organization began after Fluker had noticed the impact golf had on her son’s life—a student golfer—and she was encouraged to find a way to provide other young people with the opportunity to experience the game he so loved. From its humble beginnings with just 17 students meeting at Franklin-Wright Settlements—a small community center in Detroit, Midnight Golf has helped bring golf learning skills to over 250 students. The program has seen phenomenal success and has expanded to a 30-week curriculum that has helped hundreds of Detroit’s at-risk high school students enter college and various professional careers.
RELATED: Harold Varner III Unravels to Finish at T36 in PGA Championship
Jerome Abram Bettis Sr., nicknamed “The Bus,” is a Detroit native and plays regularly at Detroit Golf Club. Bettis was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2015. He is also the Honorary Cochairman of the 2019 US Senior Open. The Detroit native also participated and his team won in the Area 313 Celebrity Challenge held during the Rocket Mortgage Classic, earlier this week. Yes, The Bus was definitely The Bus!
Motown’s Smokey Robinson is an avid golfer. Some of us might even remember the commercial Smokey made for Callaway Golf
Did you see Johnny Miller’s lame move? Really Johnny!
Cameron Champ in his second year on the tour finished tied for 46th including a sizzling 65 during Friday’s second round and was on pace to break the course record posting a 28 with 6 birdies and an eagle on the front nine but cooled off on the back.
Watch his second round interview below:
Champ is averaging 317.1 yards in driving distance and 54.19% in driving accuracy this season. He has earned $1,572,908 in official money this season.
Coincidentally, Varner finished just one stroke ahead of Champ earlier this season at the Mayakoba Golf Classic in Mexico.
Well, I hope to be back next year pulling for a great finish for Champ and Varner but this year I have to congratulate fellow Nebraskan, Nate Lashley on his first PGA victory. His victory was so unlikely as he failed to Monday qualify but was selected as the first alternate after several withdrawals from the tournament. Just goes to show you, never give up in golf. What a game!
Detroit has made a name in business, industry, music and this week we can add GOLF to its rich heritage.
James Beatty, Executive Editor, African American Golfer’s Digest is also Founder of NCS International, an Omaha, Nebraska-based company that providers of an array of economic development services. He also serves on the WE ARE GOLF Diversity Task Force and recently launched Jim Beatty Golf Ventures, a golf promotion and management company.
BY AAGD STAFF
(June 29, 2019)
Friday, following Round 2, Pro Golfer Cameron Champ discussed his thoughts on the Rocket Mortgage Classic, admitting to making several past mistakes which he hopes to overcome. In the transcript below, provided by Tee-Scripts.com, Cameron shares with fans just how well he knows himself, along with his strengths and weaknesses.
View Sunday’s Round 4 tee times for the 2019 Rocket Mortgage Classic – the PGA TOUR’s first golf tournament ever held in the city of Detroit.
ROUND 2 INTERVIEW
Conducted: June 28, 2019
CAMERON CHAMP ( -13)
Q. Cam, let’s talk about that front nine. When did you know that you had it going?
CAMERON CHAMP: I would probably say the putt on, what’s it, 5, the par 3. It was a big
breaker downhill. I mean, you basically (inaudible) from there, but poured it right in the
middle. Same on 6, same thing. Everything just kept flowing, and for the first nine holes the
hole looked pretty big for a while.
Q. And that’s the thing about this golf course is you can get on nice runs but eventually, it fights back. It’s that type of place, isn’t it?
CAMERON CHAMP: Exactly. The back side I really didn’t play terrible, I just hit a few shots
that kind of limited my ability to get it close to the hole. I fought hard, missed a few putts that
I wish I could get back, but that’s how it goes.
Q. It seems like when you get yourself in contention, you handle that situation very
well. It must be nice to be back in contention.
CAMERON CHAMP: Yeah, it is. Like I said, it’s definitely been a rough month, month and
a half, two months for me, but I’ve been working hard, so just to kind of see it slowly pay off
is good.
Taking in the networking opportunity of the Rocket Mortgage Classic Pairings Party (L-R:) James Beatty, AAGD Executive Editor, Mike Tirico, world renown NBC Sportscaster and Mark Denson, Senior Director, Detroit Economic Development Corporation.
BY AAGD STAFF
(June 26, 2019)
Jim Beatty, AAGD Executive Editor and Editorial Advisory Board Member had a great time networking with attendees at the Rocket Mortgage Classic Pairings Party. Beatty, along with a list of over 300 other guests, including several high profile business executives and sports fans, made the most of his time while enjoying the upbeat ambiance.
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The highly sought after tickets for the social function of the Pro-am Pairings Party gave revelers entry into the event, held at the Savings Bank Building in downtown Detroit. NBC Sports Broadcaster Mike Tirico served as Master of Ceremonies which served as a prelude to the tournament that raises funds for various charities.
Midnight Golf participants Devon Watson (far left), Cayla Warren (2nd from right), and Winston Coffee (far right) with Jim Beatty, AAGD Executive Editor.
BY AAGD STAFF
June 26, 2019
Whether you indulge in the game of golf, or not, this $84 Billion industry offers an abundance of opportunity for successful entrepreneurship, franchising, corporate employment, independent operations, and more.
So, just how do you get started? Well, the bottom line of and for-profit business is to make money. Take a look at this long list of golf-related business ideas and opportunities which you can start on a golf course.
The Golf Academy of America estimated that the golf industry offers more than 2 million jobs. However, IBIS World reports in 2010 that the golf course and country club industry is expected to lose $430 million thanks to unemployment challenges, maintenance costs and a dip in golf participating since 2008. Golf course owners can combat low sales with ideas for stimulating business.
What is Needed to Start a Successful Golf Related Business?
First, you do not necessarily have to leave your “day job” to make money in the golf business. Why? because you won’t necessarily be on the golf course to earn money from this mega-industry. However, when the time is right, you may have the opportunity to leave your job while reaping the benefits of a successful golf business operation.
Should you be tempted, take a look at these various business ideas below. As any astute business owner knows, if you are not familiar with your industry, then do your homework. Research inside-and-out, learn the terms, join affiliate organizations and clubs to share a knowledge base, then, proceed (with caution).
Below are 50 lucrative golf-related business ideas that you can consider venturing into:
1.. Sell discounted or used golf equipment on EBay
EBay is an online marketplace where people shop for items that are hard to find. You can purchase discounted golf items from wholesalers, manufacturers, and liquidation companies and sell them on EBay. Similarly, you can buy used golf equipment (from people who no longer need them and are willing to sell them for cheap) and sell at higher prices on EBay.
2. Open your own online golf gear store
While there are already many online stores that sell golf equipment, you can break into the market successfully by focusing on a specific niche—at least for a start. For example, you can start by selling just golf gears or golf balls. This way, you will be able to attract potential customers who are looking to buy these items online. For your inventory, you may contact manufacturers, wholesalers and liquidation companies.
3. Become a golf trainer
People interested in one sporting activity or another usually approach personal trainers to learn the skills of that sport. The same runs true for golf. You can make money by teaching beginners how to play golf. Though most personal trainers work in fitness centers, there are many other locations where you can offer your services. It all boils down to where your clients prefer. And it’s better to give them multiple options. Some clients prefer to have their training right in their own homes, while others prefer outdoors. If you have enough space in your home, that’s another option.
4. Install backyard putting green
More and more golf enthusiasts are installing putting greens and practice areas in their backyards. Aside that these provide cheap entertainment, they also create a visually alluring landscape. Since many golfers spend money to landscape their yards and often pay huge transport costs to visit the golf course, they always tend to jump at the idea of investing the same money on a backyard putting green. In addition to installation, you can also offer maintenance services.
RELATED ARTICLE: $4 Billion Generated Annually by Golf Tournament Fundraising
5. Become a golf instructor
No knowledge is lost and that is why people will be glad to take heed to the instruction of experts. Therefore, if you prefer a home-based business, then you can become a golf instructor rather than a trainer. As an instructor, you can teach private lessons at home. You may also decide to meet clients at a different location. This is all in a bid to add to the knowledge and experience of golf lovers, while you make money and smile to the bank.
6. Start a mini golf business
Mini golf is for kids who love to play golf. It provides a great opportunity for them to master the game before starting the real version. If you enjoy working with kids or want to provide entertainment for families, you can start a mini golf course.
7. Write a golf tips eBook
Many beginner golfers want to learn how to improve their skills and play the game better, but they don’t want to pay for an expensive class. They will rather settle for a book or something similar. You can make huge profits by writing and selling an eBook that teaches golf skills. Writing and producing an eBook is much cheaper for the author, and publishing an eBook is much faster than publishing a physical book.
8. Teach video golf lessons online
Many beginner golfers want to learn more about the techniques of the game. But taking golf classes might be too expensive for them or might not fit well into their schedule. And eBooks, too many of them, are not “practical” enough. Online video courses will help such beginners learn the game in the comfort of their homes, at their own convenience, and for low cost. So, you can package and sell video clips of different golf swings, common mistakes, golf game strategies, etc.
RELATED ARTICLE: Golf Has $8.2-Billion Economic Impact in Florida
9. Open a golf store franchise
You can open a brick-and-mortar retail store that sells golf equipment. To make huge profits, get your inventory cheap from wholesalers, manufacturers, and liquidation companies. A location close to a golf course is ideal. For you to know about the gold store franchise, you will need to do your own research or ask those already in the field about available franchises.
- Open a golf school
If you have great teaching procedures and can implement effective marketing strategies, you can make huge profits by starting a golf training school where beginners can learn and master the game within a specific period.
- Purchasing a golf resort
Starting your own private golf resort is not an easy task to accomplish. It requires a complete project team and a solid capital base to be able to achieve your dream of opening your own private golf resort. As a matter of fact, it requires long term planning to successfully build a golf resort from scratch to finish. But if you don’t have enough time to spend, you can as well source for golf resorts that are put – up for sale. One of the draw backs of buying over a golf resort is that you can’t change the location.
Opening a golf resort is not an easy task, but nevertheless, you still need to be creative if you intend making money from your golf resort. One of the ways you can make money from your golf resort is to organize standard golf tournaments in your golf resort. The truth is that if you have big corporations to sponsor your golf tourney, you will sure attract some of the finest golfers within your country and even outside your country.
- Starting a golf club manufacturing company
Golf players both professionals and amateur players make use of golf clubs. Golf clubs are used to hit the ball and channel it to the direction of the hole. You can start a golf club manufacturing company and grow it into a big business. This is one industry that isn’t already saturated and is sure to guarantee profit.
- Discount Golf Equipment Business Idea
If you love golf and would like to start your own business, you may want to open your own discount golf equipment business. Your store might sell equipment such as clubs, bags, balls, shoes, clothing, and other golf accessories. You may also offer club repair and custom fitting services, and if you have enough retail space might have driving nets so your customers can try new clubs before they buy.
If you want to be successful in a discount golf equipment small business, you should buy in large quantities to be able to sell at lower prices, hire only experienced golfers as your employees, allow customers to try clubs before they buy, and carry a wider selection than your competitors. If you separate yourself from competitors, golf lovers will remember you. You can also offer golf lessons onsite or use students to provide lessons at local ranges. You might even want to franchise your business to nearby areas.
- Start a golf personality management service
Just as musical stars and movie stars have personal managers, you can also establish yourself as a sports personality manager for golfers. Your task will be to manage your clients’ reputation, negotiate deals on their behalf and pursue advertising deals. All professional golfers have managers that conduct and take care of their affairs both on and out of the golf course.
- Open a golf academy
You can set up a golf academy to train and develop young talents, something just like the Pepsi Football Academy. You can choose to replicate the idea in your own niche and create something like a golfing academy, Athletes academy, Lawn tennis academy, etc.
- Publish your own golf video blog
There are a lot of news video blogs focused on every sport you can think of. Yet, some niches are still untapped. You can decide to become a golf video “Vlogger” blogger and keep enthusiasts of the sport abreast of the happenings in the golf world.
- Start a golf recruitment agency
You can also set up a golfer’s recruitment agency. Your primary task in this case is to scout for young talents that can be shaped into professional golfers. For instance, you can become a head hunter for golf clubs and other golf-related agencies. This is a very good business that you can venture into and be sure to make good money from.
- Start a golf advertising agency
The success of every business, whether small or big, depends on the effectiveness of its marketing strategies. This explains why marketing is regarded as the backbone of any business and why marketers are always in huge demand. Advertisers will remain relevant for as long as advertising itself remains important to business owners.
So, business advertising is one of the most lucrative, recession-proof businesses you can venture into. Making money from the advertising business is quite easy, provided you have the requirements. You can start your own advertising agency with modest start-up capital, and you can operate it from the comfort of your home.
- Start a Golf Television Station
If you are a big-time investor and you know your way around the government bureaucracy in your country, you can successfully secure a TV license and start your own sports television. It requires huge start-up capital and good business strategy to run this type of business but the fact remains that it is a profitable venture.
- Start a Sports “Golf” Podcast
Another broadcasting related business that you consider starting is a sports podcast focused on golf. Start-up costs to produce a podcast are extremely minimal with today’s technology, and you can build your audience organically through social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Many novice podcasters have been astounded at the success and huge revenue and benefits from their podcast business.
- Sports Betting Company
People all over the world are into sports betting and the industry of course is growing in leaps and bounds. Sports betting business is one sports related business that can thrive in any part of the world especially if you not just operating a sports betting business where people can only be allowed to place a bet by visiting your outlets but via your website.
With that, you will be able to attract customs from all over the world irrespective of where your sports betting company is located. One key factor that will help you to succeed in this business is to pay winners on time when their winnings are due.
- Golf Promotions Business
If you are a boxing fan, you most likely would have heard about Don King the famous boxing promoter; he is a successful boxing promoter that is known all over the world. You can strive to be the Don King of golf and you don’t need to start this type of business by competing with world class sports promoter; all you need to do is to start from your local community. You can choose to promote sports events in your community that can attract some of the finest skills in your community.
You might not start making money immediately, as a matter of fact you will be parting away money from your pocket, but the truth remains that if you are consistent and willing to grow with time it won’t be too long before you start making money as a sports promoter.
- Golf course Construction and Maintenance Business
Football clubs and other related sports spend huge some of the monies maintaining their pitches; little wonder the pitches are always in top shape during football matches. If you have skills in that area, you can consider starting your own golf course construction and maintenance business. Aside from golf courses, you can also list rugby fields, cricket fields, American football pitch, football pitches, and any sports that is played on the field as part of your service offerings.
- Production of Sports Video or Computer Games
If you are a programmer and you are a sports lover, one of the sports related business ideas that you can successfully start is to go into the production of sports video or computer games. It is a cool way of making cash if you know how to push your product in the market place. It will be easier to push your product into the market.
- Balls Manufacturing
You don’t have to be a major player before you make money from manufacturing balls for different games that require balls. You can start by manufacturing golf balls, footballs, tennis balls, basketballs, hockey balls, volley balls, rugby balls et al for children. It is a way to encourage children to start playing their favourite sports. If you are consistent and have a big mentality, some day in the future you can win the contract to produce balls for major golf events or a big rich golf course.
- Production of golf Cartoons
Production of golf cartoons is yet another sports related business ideas that a graphic artist / animation expert can successfully start. The truth is that, if you produce a cartoon movie that has top golfers, football, rugby, wrestling, boxing or basketball players as characters then you are likely not going to struggle to get people to accept and purchase it.
Children love cartoons and producing sports cartoon will get kids to fall in love with the sport that is played in their favourite sports cartoon. For example, if you produce a cartoon that is built around golf legends, kids that watch and love such cartoons would naturally want to become golfers.
- Golf Reality Show
If you are an event organizer and also a golf enthusiast, then you can consider starting your own golf reality show. If the program is well organized and you are able to secure good sponsorship, then the reality show will likely become an annual show if you want it to be so. You are sure going to make good money from this business venture if the reality show is well packaged.
- Production and Sale of Sports Toys
Another profitable sports related business idea that an entrepreneur can successfully start is the production and sale of sports toys. Just ensure that you produce toys that represent favourite sports star; sports celebrities such as Tiger Wood, David Beckham, Pele, Diego Maradona, Christiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neil, Usain Bolt, Serena Williams, Andrea Agassi, et al and you wouldn’t struggle to get people to purchase them. Besides selling the toys for children’s use, you can also produce key holders and adults will sure buy and make use of it.
- Start golf Kids Club
Golf is a very interesting sport and kids are in love with it too. You can start a program / club with the aim of catching future golf players from an early age. Starting a golf kids club is yet another profitable business idea that an entrepreneur can start. Just ensure that you create golf events with the aim of teaching kids the rudiments of golf. You can target schools and parents to enrol their wards in your golf kids club. You will be required to register the business and obtain a license before you can be permitted to operate this type of business.
- Training School and Empowerment Center for golf trainers
One of the advanced sports related business ideas that an entrepreneur can start is to open a training school and empowerment centre for golf trainers and other sports officials. A place where the officials can attend a refresher course and special skill trainings, amongst others.
You would need robust experience and advance certifications before you can open and operate this type of school. You would also need accreditations from relevant authorities before you can be allowed to run this type of business. It is capital intensive, but you can be rest assured that you will make good returns on your investment.
- Open a Gym
people register in gyms to keep fit and it is common to see people who are into active sports registering in a gym close to them especially if they gym is well equipped with state of the art gym equipment. The start – up capital required to set up a standard gym might be on the high side, but the truth remains that you are sure of making your money if the gym is well located. More than ever in the history of man, people are beginning to take their fitness status really seriously. So, in starting a gym, you have to have it well equipped with the necessary machines.
- Golf Research, Documentary and Biography Writing Company
If you are a researcher or someone in the academia you can make good money from the sports industry by specializing in researching and writing biographies for eminent golf personality. The truth is that if you are good at what you do and are able to successfully write and publish the biography of one or two well – known golf celebrities, it won’t be too long before you become a star as well. Please note that this type of business is pretty much green and it is open for professional researchers and biographers.
- Start a Sports Apps Building Company
We are in a dispensation where smart phones are becoming the closet companion to loads of people out there. Apps are some of the stuffs that keep people busy with their smart phones and computer devices et al. If you are a software developer you can consider specializing in sports related apps. There is a very large market for sports related apps.
- Start a Laundry Business Targeted at golf clubs
We are all aware that big time golfers just like footballers, basketball players, rugby players and those who play for various organized sports clubs do not wash their clothing or sportswear themselves. It is the practice amongst sports clubs to contract all their laundry jobs to Laundromats. Of course if you start a Laundromat that is specialized in washing sports clothes, you will sure secure business deals from sports companies in and around the city where you operate.
- Sale of Tickets for golf Events
People usually purchase tickets in order to watch live golf events. You can start a business that is involved in selling tickets for different golf events. You can engage in the sale of tickets for golf tournaments and also supplementing ticket sales for football matches, boxing matches, athletics events, rugby events or any event as longs as people are ready to pay to watch the sports event. This type of business is based on commission; the amount you are expected to make is dependent on the numbers of tickets you sell.
- Provide Catering Services golf clubs and golf events
When sports men and women are camped, you don’t expect them to cook their foods themselves. If you are already into catering services, one area that you can expand your business is to partner with golf resorts so as to help them handle all their catering needs. One thing is certain, if you are consistent with what you do, before too long you will become the number one choice in your country when it comes to hiring caterers for sports and camping events.
- Start golf Souvenir Business
People who travel from far and wide to watch their favourite sport usually love going home with the sports branded souvenirs. For example, if you are a fan of Tiger Woods and you travel all the way from Los Angeles, the U.S. to England to watch him play at a golf tournament, you would not want to leave without buying a souvenir for yourself and also for your family members and friends.
It could be jerseys, it could be tee – shirts, it could bags, it could mufflers, it could be wall clocks, it could be mugs, it could pens and it could be anything as long as it carries the logo of the sports club. If you intend starting this type of business, ensure that your store is positioned close to the stadium or inside the stadium facility. All over the world, people cherish sports souvenirs.
- Sports Consulting Business
Another interesting sports related business that you can start is to become a sports consultant; offering consulting services for sports men and women, sports clubs and even the government. Although this business is still pretty much green, but it is not open for all and sundry. You should be able to prove your worth as a consultant before you can make headway in the industry. It is one thing to register a business as a sports consultant, it is entirely another kettle of fish for you to attract clients’- especially big time customers that can pay you huge fees et al.
- Open a Pay per View Website
No doubt people are always on the go especially people that lives in busy cities of the world and usually, that should not stop them from watching live sports events. One sports related business that you can start is to open a pay per view website where sports lovers can view their favourite sports events.
If you are able to secure permits to stream live matches, you will sure attract loads of clients from all over the world. Just ensure that you have a secure payment platform. Yet another step that you must take in bringing this business to fore is making sure that you employ the services of an expert website builder that will help your build a very attractive and interactive website.
- Start a Golf Photography Business
There are people making huge money from just covering sports events; you can become a sports photographer. It can be exciting at the same time financially rewarding. No doubt if you are a good photographer, you will make good money from selling quality pictures from the sports events you covered. Just ensure that you are well registered and licensed if not you will struggle to secure accreditations for major sports events. One of the things that would make you stand out in this niche is for you to procure the best cameras that would help bring the best out of what you do.
- Become a Professional Sports Blogger
Another of the sports related businesses that you can comfortably start with little or no start – up capital is to start blogging on sports related topics. You could choose to specialize in just one sport i.e. golf et al, or you could settle for all sports.
The bottom line is that if you have useful contents on your blog you will attract readers / viewers and the higher the numbers of visitors that visits your blog regularly, the easier it is for you to make money as a blogger. You will be able to get corporate organizations to place adverts on your blog. The sports industry all over the world has more followers more than how it was in the past.
- Start a sports bar
A sports bar is a place where sport fans gather to watch televised sporting events such as golf events, soccer matches, tennis tournaments, basketball games, and so on. Many people prefer watching sporting events in sports bars due to the comfortable and lively environment they provide; as they can argue and feel the tense moments together. If you would like to tap from the opportunities provided by the increasing craze for sports, then starting a sports bar might be the best option for you.
- Health/nutrition coach
Both professional golfers, major and minor league athletes need to stay in peak condition all year round, and part of that is making sure they consume a healthy, nutritious diet. Players need nutrition coaches to design healthful menus and keep their food intake on track. Online courses for nutrition certification are relatively inexpensive and usually take less than a year, so you could be making big bucks in no time.
- Start your own Massage business
Starting any type of business like Massage is always associated with challenges and complexities. If you are a newbie, you will somehow face with fear and doubts especially if you got no idea on how to start based on guidelines. But, these guidelines should not serve as pressure but rather a guide for starting your own sports massage business.
A comprehensive business guideline is composed of many aspects that you need to learn and deal with if you want a successful start up and smooth business operation. You can channel or locate your massage parlour in golf club where golfers can ease out after their games.
- Golf Club cleaning business
Similar to the other kinds of cleaning business, golf club cleaning business will require you with careful understanding with some business matters. This is basically part of your preparation to entering this business. Once you are thinking of entering in this venture, you have to make a plan of work and work for your plan. This means that you determine the things you need to do and the ways on how you will do it.
When making a business plan, this does not necessarily mean that it is very much formal. As long as it will help your business, it is acceptable already. Along with making a business plan is the determination of the customers you have. Make a list of the golf clubs present in your locality and take time to analyze your target clients.
- Start a golf handicapping business
A golf handicapping just like any sports handicapping is the ability to choose the winning team by point spread system. A handicapper should choose 52.38% winners only just to break even. According to a popular website, any higher percentage that considered profit is good. The money made in a sports handicapping business is generated through subscriptions to its service.
- Start a putt-putt business
A putt-putt golf course is just designed for rich people around the globe because of the fact that it is so expensive to engage in golfing. With this, you can gain lots of money if you will plan to start up your own putt-putt business. Richie rich people can be found in golf courses most of the time because golfing is their favorite pastime and sport. Where there are green bills, you must also be there if you are planning to be the world’s next billionaire.
For you to succeed in this kind of business venture, you have to make sure that you will be guided by a well-written and well-reviewed business plan. This includes a three-part plan including financial, operational and marketing plans.
- Start a driving range
A driving range is a place where golfers go to fine-tune their golf swings. At a driving range, golfers can hit as many golf balls as they like without having to retrieve the balls. A driving range can be a compatible business venture for entrepreneurs who enjoy golf. In a driving range, golfers have no specific target because they are bent on easing their selves and catching fun.
- Open a golf vacation business
Golf traveling or golf vacation is an awesome trip for golfers in other to up their games, expertise and finally relax while having a good time. Business ideas in the golf industry just like this one are gold mines waiting to be tapped. It requires just a patient and zealous mind to be able to look out for opportunities and grab them tight.
- Write a golf course guild book
We all know how big and vast a golf course or resort can be. It would take a well-detailed manual to be able to locate and maneuver through the trees and greens. You can earn cash and fame by writing a detailed analysis and guild book of golf courses around you. You need to practically know all these places before you can be able to write it.
In closing, Why not start a golf business so you can do something you love and make money at the same time? Not only do golf business owners get to work in the industry, but they get to spend much of their time with other golf enthusiasts. You’ll never have to worry about finding someone to play with. You don’t have to be at the golf course every day to make money. You don’t even have to be a good golfer. In fact, starting a golf business may even help you become a better golfer.
BY AAGD STAFF
(June 26, 2019)
Jim Beatty, AAGD Executive Editor and Editorial Advisory Board Member (pictured above, far left) caught up with Troy Mullins (center), Long Drive Champion and AAGD Fall/Winter 2018 Cover Girl, at the Rocket Mortgage Classic Pairings Party, June 26, at Detroit Golf Club. Mullins and her guest were enjoying festivities while mixing-n-mingling with the crowd.
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More than 300 people attended the Pro-am Pairings Party held at the Savings Bank Building in downtown Detroit. NBC Sports Broadcaster Mike Tirico served as Master of Ceremonies which served as a prelude to the tournament that raises funds for various charities.
Nicholas Immesberger lawsuit moves forward (photo: ABCNews.com)
BY AAGD STAFF
(June 25, 2019)
An announcement on Monday from Tiger Wood’s lawyers, the professional golfer’s name has been dropped from a wrongful-death lawsuit. The announcement came just after a court filing by attorneys representing the estate of Nicholas Immesberger, the deceased bartender who formerly worked at Woods’ Jupiter, Fla., restaurant. Immesberger died in a car crash after leaving his place of employment in December 2018.
The lawsuit is still pending against the restaurant and its general manager, Woods’ girlfriend, Erica Herman. Woods is an investor in but does not own The Woods Jupiter.
Woods’ attorney Barry Postman wrote in a statement: “The decision was clearly appropriate and reflected the fact that Mr. Woods should not have been included in the lawsuit in the first place because he had nothing to do with Mr. Immesberger’s death,”
Wood’s legal team had contested the claims earlier this month, citing that Woods did not work at or own the restaurant, and was not present the day of Immesberger’s death.
RELATED ARTICLE: Tiger Woods sued in drunk driving death of former employee
“While the situation was tragic, the facts will ultimately show that the cause of Mr. Immesberger’s car accident were the many decisions made by Mr. Immesberger on the night of his passing,” Postman said.
A representative of the estate had yet to respond to the Sun-Sentinel’s request for comment.
The Immesberger’s family filed the wrongful death lawsuit in South Florida. The lawsuit claims their son died in a car crash on December 10, 2018, while driving north on Federal Highway in Martin Country after he stayed hours after his shift at the restaurant to drink and reached the point of “severe intoxication.”
The lawsuit also claims that employees at The Woods Jupiter knew how much Immesberger, whose blood alcohol level was 0.256 or more than three times the legal limit in Florida, was drinking prior to the crash and that employees also knew he struggled with alcoholism.
BY AAGD STAFF
(June 25, 2019)
Tournament details
Jun 27–30, 2019
Detroit Golf Club
Purse: $7,300,000
Tee times for Wednesday’s Delta Dental Pro-Am at the Rocket Mortgage Classic are listed for professional players only, as their amateur playing partners won’t be determined until Tuesday night’s pairings party.
Athletes and celebrities who will participate in the pro-am include:
- Kid Rock
- Troy Mullins
- Larry Fitzgerald
- Matt “Nadeshot” Haag
- Paige Spiranac
- Jerome Bettis
- Barry Sanders
- Tom Izzo
- Maurice Allen
- Justin Abdelkader
- Danny DeKeyser
- Jimmy Howard
- Mickey Redmond
Please note that pro and celebrity participation and times are subject to change.
Also, see below for some changes to the field made Monday.
- Abraham Ancer – withdrew
- Hudson Swafford – withdrew
- In their place, Chip McDaniel and Matt Harmon have been added to the field
July 21, 2019 | BY AAGD STAFF
For Carl Matthews, one moment he will never forget was being out on the course with President Bill Clinton at Mid Pacific Country Club, (HI) and offering him playing tips during his visit (1994). It was a memorable day. So, now what’s on Matthews’ bucket list? Take a listen to this interview conducted on June 20, 2019, by Larry Brown to learn more.
The “Renaissance Man,” according to Brown, Carl Matthews is a golf poet who learned the game as a young 12-year-old kid. Wondering down to the local golf course, Matthews started caddying. The challenge of the game appealed to Matthews, he would imitate pro golfers that he saw on TV –while playing with sticks and balls. Coincidentally, Matthews’ nickname before he even started playing golf was “Tee.”
In the candid interview Matthews reveals his passion for the sport, as a student of the game that offers tremendous “networking opportunities that you get in this game are second to none,” he claims.
Richard Brown III (left) is First African American PGA Master Professional in Teaching & Coaching; Anthony G. Stepney (right) become the First African American PGA Master Professional in Player Development;
Both Earned the PGA’s Highest Educational Achievement
PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. (June 5, 2019) – The PGA of America has announced that Richard Brown III, PGA Director of Instruction at Quail Valley Golf Course in Missouri City, Texas; and Anthony G. Stepney, Executive Director of APEX Development Partners in Orlando, Florida, are the first two African-Americans to earn PGA Master Professional status, the highest educational designation that can be obtained by a PGA Member.
Brown III, a 14-year PGA Member; and Stepney, a 12-year PGA Member, joined an esteemed group of just 428 PGA Professionals in the history of the PGA of America to have earned PGA Master Professional status. Currently, just one percent of the nearly 29,000 PGA Professionals have achieved the PGA Master Professional designation. Brown III is the first-ever African-American to achieve PGA Master Professional status, with a focus in Teaching & Coaching, while Stepney is the first African-American to achieve PGA Master Professional status in Player Development.
The PGA Master Professional Program (MPP 2.0) is available to any of the PGA of America’s PGA Professionals who have achieved advanced certification through the PGA Certified Professional Program, which was launched in 2004. The curriculum is comprised of an extensive project based on the specific certification previously acquired by the PGA Professional. Upon approval of the project and successful completion of a presentation, a PGA Member will earn the prestigious PGA Master Professional status. To be eligible, the program requires a minimum of eight years of PGA Membership.
“The PGA of America is proud of Richard Brown and Anthony Stepney for accomplishing the highest education achievement a PGA Member can earn in becoming PGA Master Professionals,” said PGA President Suzy Whaley. “They are both leaders in the game and industry, and the example they are setting for their peers and the next generation of PGA Professionals is a tremendous standard of accomplishment.”
Richard A. Brown, PGA
Richard Brown III, PGA, a member of the Southern Texas PGA Section, who earned PGA Certified Professional status in 2017, has been recognized as a U.S. Kids Top 50 Junior Instructor. He credits Calvin Peete, Lee Elder, Charlie Sifford, Jim Dent, Ted Rhodes, John Shippen and Bob Johnson for paving the way, allowing him the opportunity of becoming a PGA Professional. Brown III operates the Richard Brown School of Golf, where he offers a full lineup of player development programs for kids and adults.
“This achievement is a highlight of my career, but, it does not define my career,” said Brown III. “Yes, this accomplishment places me in rarified air, but I will continue to stay humble and hungry trying to be the best PGA Professional that I can be, to make the game better, one player at a time.”
Anthony G. Stepney, PGA, a member of the North Florida PGA Section, is the Executive Director of APEX Development Partners, an Orlando, Florida-based consulting firm that supports the broad-based developmental needs of organizations, including several golf companies and facilities throughout the country seeking strategic growth and increased profitability. In 2015, Stepney earned PGA Certified Professional status in Player Development. A year later, he was selected for the inaugural PGA LEAD Class, the Association’s leadership development program that identifies, mentors and progresses PGA Members from diverse backgrounds, who aspire to assume leadership positions in the Association.
“Achieving the prestigious PGA Master Professional designation is a pinnacle career accomplishment,” said Stepney. “I consider it an honor to be among the approximately one percent of the PGA of America’s 29,000 Professionals—and among only seven PGA Members who specialize in Player Development, including PGA President Suzy Whaley.”
Anthony Stepney, PGA
Stepney’s Master Professional thesis focused on “Making the Business Case for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Golf Industry.” Themes from his final project demonstrated proven and pragmatic ways to grow and broaden the golf consumer base including: helping golf be more accessible and welcoming to a broader population; increasing the number of women, minorities and other underrepresented populations in the golf industry; and guiding members of the golf industry to think more broadly and be mindful of the varied dimensions of difference, among others.
The PGA Master Professional Program (MPP 2.0) was established in 1969, to recognize PGA Members who have made a significant effort to improve as golf professionals and maintain the highest degree of excellence for themselves and their operations. As part of its Member education curriculum, the PGA MPP 2.0 program was designed to ensure PGA Professionals are prepared to meet the growing demands of the marketplace.
About the PGA of America
The PGA of America is one of the world’s largest sports organizations, composed of PGA Professionals who daily work to grow interest and participation in the game of golf. For more information about the PGA of America, visit PGA.org, follow @PGA on Twitter, and find us on Facebook and Instagram.
BY TIFFANY POWELL
(June 17, 2019)
Micaiah Love Joubert is 14-years old. She was born in Arlington, Texas and currently lives in Grand Praire Texas. With a bubbling personality, Micaiah was introduced to the game of golf at the tender age of 4. Her brother Kainan and her father Wendell are avid players and were her influence to begin playing the game. The basics of the game seemed to come naturally for her and today, she has an impressive handicap of 9.
She is a member of a variety of golf clubs and organizations, for example, she has been a participant with The First Tee since the age of 5. Her interest in learning all that she can about the game is becoming a sole focus for the youngster and, to date, she has participated in the PGA Jr. League for 3 consecutive years, the UME Prep Academy Junior High Golf team for 4 years, and has recently transitioned to the UME Prep Academy High School Team.
You can catch Micaiah playing golf with her father and sometimes she practices with her sister Soraya. When she was younger she would often play with her father and his friends on the course absorbing all avenues of the game and the culture of the sport. One of her favorite golf buddies is her senior colleague, Aysis, who is set to attend college next year on a scholarship. What draws Micaiah to the game of golf is the challenge and the exhilaration she gains from being on the course, as she strives for her next birdie.
Miss Joubert has participated in a number of golf tournaments. April 1, 2019: Texas Charter School Academic & Athletic League (TCSAAL), April 17, 2019: TCAF District/Regional Qualifier, April 22: TCAF State Tournament. Remarkably, she placed in the top 10 for each tournament and was Champion in the 2019 TCSAAL State Tournament 6th-8th grade division.
As for traditional coaching, her father Wendell serves as her main coach. However, she is currently working with Coach Adam at her school. Micaiah definitely shares an appreciation for the knowledge that a golf professional can bring to students of the game and, says that gaining focus on her approach shots have been the biggest asset.
“The instruction helps me maintain the discipline of my game and it gives me the potential to one day become e professional player,” says Micaiah. Her father believes, “Anybody can be good, but what are you doing to be great?” It is this wisdom from her father that gives Micaiah a bigger perspective of where she currently is and what she needs to get to the next level.
With her years of dedication to practice and many hours of competition, Micaiah, like many golfers, has suffered from an injury. Most recently, she had double-knee surgery due to hemiepiphysiodesis.
“As a 5th grader after double knee surgery, Micaiah finished as the State Runner-up competing against 6th-8th graders. Due to her second surgery to remove the pins from her knees, she couldn’t compete at this tournament until this year, as she claimed the title,” says her mother Kissandra Joubert. Micaiah is still working hard on different aspects of her game and she is determined to improve even more.
Her recovery has motivated her to be the best. She has an infinite amount of gratitude and attributes her healing to her spirituality. She continues to love the game of golf and has tremendous support from her parents, who often take her to practice.
Micaiah has an impressive golf resume, just take a look:
- Drive, Chip and Putt Local Champion (3 years)
- Drive, Chip and Putt Sub-Regional Qualifier (4 years)
- The First Tee Club of Fort Worth Champion (1 year)
- PGA Jr. League Record (9-1)
- TCSAAL State Runner-up (2016 as a 5thgrader)
- TCSAAL State Champion (2019)
- Fort Worth City Girls Tournament Finishes
- 4thin Championship Flight (1 year)
- 3rdin Championship Flight (4 years)
- Colonial Junior Invitational- Champion 2018
- TCAF District/Regional High School Tournament- Team Runner-up 2019 (only 8thgrader)
- TCAF All-State- 3rdplace medalist 2019 (only 8thgrader)
- TCAF High School State Tournament- 3rdplace as a team 2019
- SGA member, National Honor Society, 8thgrade overall best girl student-athlete
- Church Nursery worker
Outside of golf, Micaiah participates in volleyball, basketball, and track and field. She hangs out with her sister often, enjoys shopping, and being curled up with a good book in between tournaments.
Certainly, with an endless amount of dedication to the sport, young Micaiah has a bright future in the game.