Need a good laugh? Read this piece by Matthew Rocco of Fox Business regarding the U.S. Golf Association’s new deal with Deloitte Consulting LLP.
http://sports.yahoo.com/news/usga-deloitte-team-energize-golf-120000556.html
The deal, according to the story, is “a multi-year strategic partnership to foster innovation’’ to build a strong future for golf.
I guess that means the USGA hasn’t done a good job in the past.
The USGA is teaming with Deloitte Consulting LLP to allegedly improve the game.
Here’s where the belly laughs begin: The story says: ‘’The partnership is considered a mutually beneficial one. The USGA—a group of 8,000 clubs, courses and practice facilities—intends to capitalize on Deloitte’s expertise, while Deloitte can introduce its brand to golf fans as an official sponsor. Plus, golf is quite popular inside Deloitte’s offices.’’
The words “official sponsor’’ are key, meaning that the Deloitte deal is beneficial to the USGA’s coffers. I seriously doubt the deal will impact the game at the grassroots levels, which the USGA wants you to believe.
Here’s another laugher. “Golf is quite popular inside Deloitte’s offices.’’ That’s good, sound reason to spend money.
The article also goes on to talk about the “Tiger Woods Boom.’’
Let be straight about this. There was no “Tiger Woods Boom.’’ Sure, Woods was must-see TV when he was the top of his game, but his popularity did not transfer to significant increases in rounds played and in equipment sales.
In terms of equipment sales, participation and perception, the golf industry is a mess. There is nothing here that helps.
