PGA Working to Improve its Image As a golfer, you’re aware of what a great sport it is. The PGA of America is currently in the midst of an identity crisis, as they must attempt to broaden golf’s appeal.

Expanding Their Horizons

The PGA of America is currently trying to reach different cohorts and expand to those who have typically not played the game in the past. PGA CEO Peter Bevacqua recently told CNNMoney, “We know that this game needs more diversity. It needs to be more accessible. We have to put our flag in the ground and say, ‘Hey, we’re serious about this.’”

As a result, the PGA of America is trying to strengthen women’s golf. They have made strides lately – August National, where The Masters is held, began accepting women members in 2012. The PGA also overtook the LPGA Championship from the LPGA and renamed the event the Women’s PGA Championship, giving them their first tournament for women. Bevacqua has stated that he is most proud of this tournament.

Getting People Interested

The PGA of America is also working to increase the amount of people playing the game, especially children. They are also looking to drum up excitement for the sport by holding big tournaments at public courses instead of ritzy country clubs. The 2019 and 2020 PGA Championships will be played at public courses. 2019 will be played at Bethpage Black in New York, and 2020 at TPC Harding Park in San Francisco.

This is important to Bevacqua, who continued to CNNMoney, “That’s a powerful story because those golf courses are open to everybody. They’re very affordable. We think that’s a powerful signal for the game…If you’re home watching the PGA Championship…later that day or the next day, you can go out there and play that same exact golf course. That’s special. Golf is different in that way, and we have to capitalize on those differences.”

Since Bevacqua has taken over, significant strides have been made outreach as well. The PGA is now going into communities and schools, making young children more knowledgeable about the game. There has also been the implementation of the Drive, Chip, and Putt competition for junior golfers. Bevacqua said, “I think we’ve kind of stood back and said, ‘Well, if people want to play golf they’re going to come find us. We can’t do that. We have to be far more aggressive…and go out and find people.”

Golf in a Friendly Environment

No matter who you are, you should give the game of golf a try. It is a humbling game that will teach you many life lessons and many things about yourself. If you’re a resident in Southern California and are looking for a friendly environment to help give the game a try, check out Westlake Golf Course. We not only have a full 18-hole course, but an assortment of amenities including a 40-stall night lighted driving range, pro-shop, snack bar, fully stocked bar, and a practice putting and chipping green. Our staff is here to help you. We are here to make your golf experience an enjoyable one! Visit us today.