The business of golf has experienced many challenges in the past few years. Many key indicators are not good. In American golf, rounds are down. Number of private club members is down. In Western Pennsylvania, it’s almost a percentage point a year for a decade or more. More course have closed than new ones have opened. Equipment sales are off. One of the National Golf Foundation’s key indicators, golf ball sales, are down.
Many think the USGA should take a more active role in promoting golf. Such a move would be a departure from the USGA’s preamble that cites ” . . . . best interests and true spirit of the game of golf . . .” The activities then listed below concern the game, not the business of golf. Should an organization founded in 1894 rethink its role? And by extension, how about organizations like the WPGA? Those in the golf community who believe the USGA should promote the business of golf believe that way perhaps because the USGA can afford to. Among the things the USGA cites is its role as a non-commercial and impartial ruling body.
What should or could the USGA do to “promote golf?” Would such participation be any different than the federal government picking and supporting certain energy alternatives over others? Many criticize the government’s attempts to manipulate the economy in such a fashion. Once the USGA puts its toe in the water, the organization would receive all kinds of advice–where to go and what to spend.
The USGA isn’t the only national golf organization. The National Golf Foundation has done market research for nearly 80 years. Is not the NGF better positioned to address business problems in American golf? The USGA has expanded activities, getting involved with projects like The First Tee, junior golf development, environmental initiatives, history and museum, grants for physically challenged golfers and related programs, and other programs. Hundreds of millions of dollars have already been spent. The next step is on a slippery slope, and can the USGA be all things to all people? Their roles in championships, Rules and regulations, including its role as “authoritative national body” are so important to the game that mission creep on other programs should be carefully considered.
The business of golf has done pretty well over the years. It’s tough now but the bright line between the governing bodies and business and commercial interests needs to stay as bright as ever.
That’s one person’s opinion. I would be interested in hearing from others.
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