Capture Members’ Attention With An Early Splash

We’re into March and opening day isn’t far off as your members/clients anticipate the beginning of the 2010 season and looking at all that’s new in apparel and golf equipment. That first weekend, we’re planning to make our soft goods 20 per cent off. I know that sounds silly because those items... ( Full Article )

Memories Of A Hall Of Fame Mentor

Last week, the RCGA, the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame announced its 2010 inductees. I would like to congratulate Graham Cooke and Brent Franklin on their selection under the player category. While not many in the Canadian golf scene would remember Brent, I can say that, having competed with him during... ( Full Article )

Focus On Fitness Continues To Grow

It’s no secret that fitness has become an important aspect of golf the past few years, but I’m finding that the emphasis is starting to pick up even more. At first, it was the really avid people who were taking an interest in fitness, but now it seems that for people just getting into the game,... ( Full Article )

There’s More To Communicating Than E-Mails

I get the importance of e-mail and text messages in today’s business environment, but a pet peeve of mine is that we’re pushing the boundary with the use of such tools and getting away from core verbal and written skills. The reason I say this is because I will get correspondence or resumes sent... ( Full Article )

Player Development Is Intriguing

I’m intrigued to see the proceedings this weekend at Junior Golf-2010 and Beyond, being conducted by the Royal Canadian Golf Association and Canadian PGA this weekend at Old Ashburn in Halifax. The main topic will be the player development side and I’m interested to see where they’re going with... ( Full Article )

Saving Big Expenditures For Later This Year

As I’ve mentioned in past contributions, I think there’s a good feeling in golf after the economic challenges of the past year or so. I think what’s happening is that people are realizing that the sky isn’t falling, but there’s a wait-and-see attitude as opposed to a “woe is me” attitude. A... ( Full Article )

Perception Is Paramount For Golf Professionals

In my last blog, I talked about the need for the Canadian golf professional to embrace change and in continuing on that theme, I want to talk about the how the golf industry views the role of the golf professional.  While my views won’t be earth-shattering, I don’t think as golf professionals,... ( Full Article )

Golf Courses Are Living An Olympic Dream

As I began this blog, I looked out the window and saw not a cloud in the sky. I can see the Vancouver Mountains and, contrary to popular belief, they do have snow on them, not a lot, but there is some.  It was like an April day and it was expected to stay that way at least into this week which, as... ( Full Article )

Promotion Takes Priority Over Equipment Rules

The controversy about Phil Mickelson using the Eye 2 wedge is a PGA Tour issue, but it may cause unnecessary concern among golfers across the country. There is still not a lot of education out there about new groove regulations brought in by the United States Golf Association this year. People might... ( Full Article )

Subtle Changes Make Good First Impressions

It’s about this time of year that golfers and people within the industry start to feel a little spring fever. The phones are beginning to ring, people are starting to ask about opening day, even if it won’t be tomorrow. We’re getting down to the wire, at least in Ontario, and we’re probably... ( Full Article )

Pros Should Embrace Change, Not Fear It

I never really contemplated the full possibilities of a blog and to be honest, my first few felt more like I was writing an article for a golf magazine than expressing what I really felt or thought about the golf business. However, as I have become a bit more comfortable with writing them, I realized... ( Full Article )

Olympic Golf In Vancouver?

Canadians tuned into the opening ceremonies for the Winter Olympics in Vancouver on Friday, the start to what we hope will be a memorable couple of weeks despite weather that has felt more like spring than winter. It was probably the driest and warmest January that I remember. At Point Roberts, we’ve... ( Full Article )

Gary Bernard Has Immediate Priorities

I’ve always been impressed with Gary Bernard and I think they made a fantastic choice in naming him executive director of the Canadian PGA. He has such passion for the association and that’s what we need. Our industry is built on passion and we try to be leaders. I don’t think we would be as successful... ( Full Article )

Gary Bernard Has Knowledge, Passion For Job

I’m not sure what the search parameters were for the selection of the new Canadian PGA executive director, but I’m looking forward to seeing how Gary Bernard settles into his new position now that he’s been selected. I’ve met Gary and he’s a great guy. He’s worked with the Canadian PGA for... ( Full Article )

Pros Also Need Support Before The “Show”

Wow, it was a very exciting couple of weeks down here in Orlando with demo day at Orange County National followed by the PGA Merchandise Show at the Orange County Convention Centre. It’s been well-documented how impressive the golf show is, even with the recent economic challenges and this year’s... ( Full Article )

Driving Down Magnolia Lane To A Lifelong Memory

I can now say I’ve made the drive down Magnolia Lane and it’s one of the greatest sights with the trees so beautiful as you head straight to the clubhouse at Augusta National. It was the first of many thrills after playing Augusta last week with Craig Stadler. It’s a lifelong dream for every golfer... ( Full Article )

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