Shifting Focus: Why PGA Professionals Deserve Your Attention During This Week's Championship
Let's step back from the drama surrounding men's pro golf. This week's PGA Championship reminds us that the vast majority of professional golfers, often overshadowed, deserve our spotlight.
The Professional Golfers' Association of America (PGA) – the organization behind countless courses you frequent – fosters the game at its core. Their members manage public and private courses, run tournaments, teach everyday people, and yes, sometimes even fold shirts. While a select few compete at the highest level (including some in this week's Major), all contribute to this storied organization.
Perhaps now, more than ever, the PGA of America desires a clear distinction from the PGA TOUR. The ongoing feud between the TOUR and LIV Golf has poisoned the sport for fans and players alike, devolving into public spats on social media as viewership dwindles. In stark contrast, PGA members tirelessly work to expand and manage the game's growth. They cultivate new generations of golfers while cherishing the established ones.
Before tuning into the action at Valhalla, take a moment to explore the PGA of America's website. Discover initiatives far more critical than millionaire battles for billionaire status.
Programs like PGA REACH and PGA WORKS offer life-changing scholarships to diverse, motivated students pursuing PGA Membership through accredited university programs. These scholarships empower future leaders in the golf industry. Explore their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts too. The PGA strives to welcome everyone to the game, workforce, and supply chain through education, government outreach, workforce development, procurement practices, and community engagement.
Finally, visit the Make Golf Your Thing website. Here, you'll see the PGA's genuine commitment to expanding accessibility and attracting new players across the nation. This, in essence, is how golf truly grows, not through self-serving pronouncements from touring professionals consumed by internal conflicts.
Additional Benefits of Supporting the PGA of America:
Enhanced Local Golf Experience: By supporting your local PGA professional, you're directly contributing to the health of your course's pro shop. This translates into a wider selection of equipment, apparel, and expert advice readily available to you. Additionally, PGA professionals often host clinics and events, fostering a vibrant golfing community around your course.
Stronger Junior Golf Programs: The PGA is a driving force behind initiatives like First Tee, which introduces youngsters to the game in a fun and inclusive environment. Your support strengthens these programs, ensuring future generations have the opportunity to discover the joys of golf.
Preserving the Traditions of Golf: The PGA of America acts as a steward of the game's rich history and traditions. Supporting them helps ensure these traditions are passed down and celebrated for years to come.
Let's not forget why we love golf, even amidst the constant headlines and online debates bombarding us. Supporting your local PGA professional by grabbing a dozen balls or a hat from their shop is a small way to show appreciation for a business and profession that keeps the heart of the sport beating. Introducing a youngster to the game – the purest way to pay it forward – is something any PGA member would be happy to help with. Don't let those unused clubs gather dust – donate them to a First Tee event, often organized by your local pro.
By supporting the PGA of America, you're not just backing an organization, you're investing in the future of the sport we all love. From cultivating new generations of golfers to preserving the game's heritage, the PGA's dedication ensures golf remains welcoming and accessible for all. So, this week, as you follow the PGA Championship, remember the PGA professionals who are the true backbone of the game. Consider how you can support them – on the course, through their initiatives, or simply by introducing someone new to the sport.
The stars of golf’s pro tours will get the camera time this week against a backdrop supported by thousands of hardworking PGA members and volunteers behind the scenes. Remember to pull back that curtain now and in the future to shine light on the other side of pro golf. You’ll love what you find.
