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hobeymakar · 4 years ago

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Unapologetically | C. Makar Part 5

Previous Parts: Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4

Chapter word count: 4,076 words

A/N: I know it’s been a bit since I last posted, but I made up for it with a long chapter. Next chapter will officially be the start of the playoffs and it will be very much worth the wait. As always, please like and reblog if you enjoy. Any and all feedback is always greatly appreciated

Shoutouts: @pizzasloot @grenawitka @hockey-and-wine as usual for being amazing and always cheering me on in the gc!

Warnings: swearing

Taty wakes up the next day and sees that Cale isn’t beside her. She checks the time and sees that it’s 11:40am, meaning he’s at practice. She goes to the bathroom to start her morning routine. She then goes to the kitchen to make herself some breakfast. She sees a note on the island table.

“Babe, I left for practice. I should be home around 2,” read the note.

She makes herself some coffee and another reboltido. She cleans up the kitchen and then heads to the bathroom to shower. She showers and changes into a New York Mets shirt and joggers. She also brushes her hair and leaves it out. She goes to the living room and starts planning out what she’s gonna talk about for her next podcast episode, which she’ll be recording later on that night. Before she knows it, Cale comes home with his gear bag in tow. He goes straight to the balcony to air out his gear before making his way over to Taty.

“Hey baby, how was practice?” she asks, kissing him.

“Hard and really long,” he replies, causing her to snort.

“That’s what she said,” she giggles, causing him to roll his eyes.

“You’re such a child,” he chuckles, heading to the kitchen.

“Don’t forget I’m older than you, bud!” she retorts.

“By two years only!” he bites back, grabbing a Gatorade bottle from the fridge.

“Anyway, did you have lunch?” she asks him.

“Yeah, I ate at the rink,” he informs her.

“Good. I’m gonna record the podcast. Is it okay if I record out here?” she asks.

“Of course. I’ll just be in the room. Might even take a nap,” he replies.

“Alright, I should be done after an hour,” she informs him.

“Take all the time you need, babe,” he assures her.

He heads off to the room and she sets up her laptop and her mic on the kitchen island. She starts recording and her focus for the episode is previewing the playoff matchups in the Western Conference, since the episode prior focused on the Eastern Conference. She breaks down every matchup talking about each team’s depth at forward, defense, and goaltender.

“The next matchup I’m gonna break down is the Colorado Avalanche versus the Winnipeg Jets. I personally think Colorado easily wins this series and this has nothing to do with my bias. Colorado is just the better team overall. In offense, Colorado has the slight edge, although Winnipeg has some great scorers like Scheifele, Laine, Connor, Ehlers, and Wheeler. In defense, Colorado has the edge and it’s not even close. Colorado has one of the best defensive corps in the league, with Makar, Girard, Graves, Johnson, and Cole. In goal, however, Winnipeg has the edge and it’s not even close. Hellebuyck will be a top 3 Vezina finalist again this season, after winning it last season. However, if Hellebuyck gets hurt, then the edge goes to Colorado.”

She does the rest of the Western Conference matchups in the 1st round, while also talking about key injury news in the league. After almost an hour, she finishes recording. She removes her setup and goes back into the room, to see Cale scrolling through his phone while laying in bed.

“I just finished recording. I’ll probably edit it later tonight to post it tomorrow,” she informs him.

“Speaking of tonight, do you mind if I take you out on a date?” he asks, sitting up.

“Of course not, where do you have in mind?” she asks.

“It’s a surprise,” he smiles, causing her to whine.

“Just a little hint please!” she cries out.

“You’re gonna love it and have fun. I promise,” he assures her.

“What time are we going? I need to get ready,” she explains.

“I was thinking 6, but we can go whatever time you want. The place we’re going to is open pretty late,” he informs her.

“Alright. I’m gonna start getting ready,” she informs him.

She grabs her flat iron and her make up bag and takes them to the bathroom. She turns on the flat iron and re-touches her hair while she listens to music on her phone. After her hair is re-touched, she starts working on her makeup. She puts on minimal makeup, since she’s not a big make-up person. She then goes to the room and sees Cale is dressed in a super casual outfit.

“Should I dress comfortably then?” she asks.

“Yes, dress comfortably because we’re gonna be doing something a little athletic,” he informs her.

“Are we going roller skating?” she asks, knowing how she can’t skate to save her life..

“I’m not telling you,” he smirks.

“You’re the worst!” she whines.

“You’re gonna love it, trust me,” he assures her.

“I do trust you. I just don’t like the fact that I don’t know where you’re taking me,” she informs him.

“I know, which is why I’m not telling you. It makes it more fun,” he smiles.

She sticks her tongue out at him in response.

“Go change, babe,” he replies, ignoring how she stuck her tongue out at him.

She changes into her Nolan Arenado Colorado Rockies shirt, black leather jacket, jeans and ankle boots.

“You look great,” he smiles, kissing her forehead.

“Thank you, you don’t look too bad yourself,” she teases, grabbing her small purse.

They walk out to the kitchen and he grabs his keys from the counter. They leave the apartment and make their way to the parking garage. They walk over to the car and Taty connects her phone to the car, as always. She puts her music on and they head out of the parking garage and onto the streets of Denver. After a couple minutes they head onto the highway, going south and away from the city.

“How long is the drive gonna be?” she asks him.

“Like 25 minutes. The place we’re going to is right by our practice facility,” he informs her.

“Well I’ll go to your next practice so I can see it,” she informs him.

“Maybe I can take you out on the ice for a skating lesson,” he teases, knowing how you can’t skate.

“Honestly, please do. Teach me how to skate because I can’t do it to save my life,” she sighs, thinking about how many times she ends up falling while trying to skate.

After 25 minutes, they arrive at their destination, which is TopGolf.

“Babe, you remembered!” she smiles, kissing his cheek.

She had told him before they even started dating that she always wanted to go to TopGolf since they don’t have any locations near her yet. She’s shocked he even remembered that.

“I remember everything you’ve ever said to me,” he replies, kissing her forehead.

He parks into an empty parking spot and they both get out of the car. They walk into the building and get their temperatures checked right away. They’re cleared to stay and go up to the front desk. Cale rents out a bay for the both of them. They’re escorted to their bay and given their equipment.

“You wanna go first?” he asks.

She goes to the tee with her club and puts a ball on the tee. She goes into her stance and lines her club up with the ball.

“You want me to help you with your swing?” he asks.

“Are you trying to say my stance is bad?” she scoffs, shooting him a glare.

“No babe!” he immediately responds, backtracking.

“That’s what I thought,” she adds, watching how he stays silent.

She lines her club up with the ball again before taking a big swing. She watches as the ball goes super far.

“Great swing babe! It went 295ft,” he informs her, as she makes her way to sit down.

“Let’s make it a competition to see who can hit it the farthest. Winner gets to control the music in the car and gets to pick the movie we watch tonight,” she suggests.

“Deal,” he nods.

He gets up and goes to the tee with his club and puts a ball on the tee. He goes into his stance and lines the club up with the ball.

“Babe, you want me to help you with your swing?” she asks teasingly, making fun of what he said earlier.

“Fuck off,” he groans, shaking his head.

She just laughs in response as he takes his swing, hitting the ball.

“Fuck, you threw me off! That was a terrible swing,” he groans, walking away from the tee.

“It wasn’t terrible, babe! It went 242ft,” she assures him.

“That’s fucking terrible, babe,” he replies, shaking his head in disappointment.

The two go back and forth and after an hour, Taty is crowned the winner.

“In your face, eat shit!” she yells in his ear.

“How are you so competitive?” he asks in disbelief.

“I grew up with 3 sisters. I’ll always be competitive,” she informs him.

The food that they ordered arrives and they eat it, while discussing Cale’s day off tomorrow before Game 1 on Wednesday. They finish eating and return everything back to the front desk, before leaving. They go back to the car and Taty connects her phone to the car.

“I had a great time by the way. Hopefully with practice, I’ll be able to go to a real golf course and dominate someday,” she replies.

“I can totally help with that,” he replies, backing out of the parking spot.

“If my dad heard me talking about going to a golf course, he would be so disappointed,” she giggles.

“Why?” he asks, driving out of the parking lot.

“He hates golf, like absolutely hates it. He thinks it’s the most boring thing ever and doesn’t even think it should be called a sport,” she explains.

“He just needs to try it once and then maybe he might change his mind,” he suggests.

Taty starts singing along to the music playing through the speakers, while Cale gets back on the highway to head back to the city.

“Babe, I found this restaurant that I think you’ll really enjoy. It’s a bit of a drive since it’s pretty north of the city, but I want to take you there anyway tomorrow night. Do you want me to take you there tomorrow night?” he asks.

“Of course! I expect you to take me out all day tomorrow,” she informs him.

“Oh I will. I haven’t taken you really anywhere around the city and I already know the places you’d enjoy,” he assures her.

“10/10 would boyfriend again,” she smiles, lacing her fingers with his over the center console.

After half an hour, they arrive at the apartment complex and park in the garage. They make their way up the elevator and to the apartment. They make their way inside the apartment Taty goes to the room to pick out her pajamas. She grabs her pajamas and heads to the bathroom. She washes her face, ties up her hair, brushes her teeth, and changes into her pajamas. She leaves the bathroom and goes to the room where she sees Cale already laying in bed, under the covers. She follows suit and joins him under the covers. She grabs the remote and cuddles into his side, as she chooses a movie for them to watch. She settles on Miracle and he chuckles.

“Miracle really?” he asks, shaking his head.

“This is my favorite movie of all time. I can literally quote this movie and besides, I got to pick the movie tonight, so deal with it,” she replies, bumping his shoulder.

“I’m only messing with you babe! I like this movie, I just didn’t think you would pick it. I thought you would pick something different,” he replies.

“Tonight I’m in the mood for this movie, so we’re watching it,” she explains, a finality in her voice.

“Aye aye, captain,” he teases.

She squeezes his nipple, causing him to yelp.

“Ow! What the fuck was that for?!?” he yells in pain, rubbing his nipple to help relieve the pain.

“For being a smartass,” she smirks, pressing play on the movie.

They watch the movie together and Taty really does quote like the majority of the movie, which generates laughter out of Cale. Before they know it, the movie is over and Taty is taking it off from Disney+.

“You weren’t lying when you said you could quote most of the movie,” he says.

“I used to watch this movie like multiple times a week. Of course I could quote the movie,” she replies incredulously.

“It’s like every day you do something that amazes me,” he responds truthfully.

“I am pretty amazing,” she smiles.

“Alright, that’s enough ego for you,” he teases.

“Oh look who’s talking about ego, Mr. I’m the Avs’ best d-man,” she teases, shooting him a look.

“Alright, you got a point there,” he replies, not even bothering to argue that.

“I always got points, babe,” she adds, yawning.

“Alright, I think that’s a sign we should call it a night. We got a long day tomorrow,” he informs her.

“You’re gonna show me around the city, right?” she asks, turning over to her side.

“Yes, babe,” he replies, wrapping his arms around her as the big spoon.

“Goodnight,” she yawns, her eyes closing.

“Goodnight princess,” he smiles, kissing her hair.

The next morning, Taty wakes up and sees the bed is empty beside her. She gets up and heads to the bathroom to brush her teeth. She then goes to the kitchen and finds Cale in the kitchen, making them breakfast once again.

“Good morning, babe. Do you ever sleep?” she asks, wrapping her arms around him from behind.

“Good morning princess. I do sleep. Remember, I always take naps during the day,” he replies, turning around to kiss her.

“Yeah I know, I’m just messing with you,” she replies, hip checking him lightly.

She gets mugs out for the coffee and plates out for the food. After a minute, he’s done making breakfast and puts the food on their plates. They sit down on the island to eat it.

“So what places are you taking me today?” she asks.

“Bold of you to assume I would give you that information,” he smirks, taking a sip of coffee.

“Why are you like this? Can’t you just tell me anything?” she whines.

“Nope, you better get used to this, because I won’t be telling you places that I’ll be taking you out to,” he replies, taking a bite out of his food.

“You’re lucky you’re hot dude,” she replies, taking a bite out of her food.

His cheeks turn even more rosy with the compliment and she holds back a giggle. They finish eating their breakfast and she cleans up the kitchen, while Cale takes a shower and gets dressed. She then follows suit and takes a shower before re-straightening her hair. She then does her makeup before changing into jeans, a black pull-over sweater, and black suede ankle boots. She grabs her small purse and goes out to the living room, where she sees Cale dressed casually, scrolling on his phone.

“You’re ready to go?” he asks her, pocketing his phone.

“Yeah, let’s go,” she replies, walking towards the door.

He grabs his keys from the counter and they leave the apartment. They make their way down to the garage and head over to his car. They get into the car and she connects her phone to the car right away. They drive off towards their first destination of the day. After 15 minutes, they arrive at their first destination, which is the Downtown Aquarium. They get into the parking lot and he finds an empty spot to park in.

“Aww babe, you really do remember everything I tell you,” she smiles, kissing him.

“So take that as your only hint then. I’m gonna be taking you to places that have to do with things you’ve told me about before,” he informs her.

“Wow so helpful,” she teases.

“Well sucks because it’s all you’re gonna get,” he teases back, shutting off the car.

They get out of the car and make their way inside the aquarium, hand-in-hand. They get screened and allowed to go in and they go up to the front desk. They buy their tickets and go inside the aquarium. They go through each exhibit and Taty loves petting the stingrays and dolphins. She’s in awe by all the different species of fish, sharks, and other sea creatures. After almost two hours, they finish going through the entire aquarium. They leave the aquarium and head towards their next destination. They arrive at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception and park in the parking lot. They walk out of the car and walk towards the steps of the Basilica.

“I know you mentioned how much you loved visiting the Basilica in Montreal and how beautiful it was, so I figured you’d want to see the Basilica here. It’s really beautiful,” he informs her.

“A man who understands my love for the beauty of Roman Catholic churches!” she sighs dramatically, placing a hand over her heart.

“I told you I pay attention to everything you tell me,” he replies, taking her hand in his.

They finally make it up the steps and go inside the Basilica to tour it. Taty takes a million pictures and videos to send to her family, since they share her same love for Roman Catholic architecture. After 20 minutes, they finish the tour and head down the steps.

“We’re gonna walk to our next stop,” he informs her.

They walk a few blocks to the Colorado State Capitol and take pictures, enjoying the view of the mountains from the rotunda. They head walk down towards the Colorado Veterans Monument located in the park in front of the Capitol building. They walk the few blocks back to the car and get inside.

“Babe, are we gonna have lunch soon?” she asks, looking at the time.

“Yeah, we’re gonna go to a nice little spot around here that I think you’ll really enjoy,” he informs her.

They drive back towards downtown and head over to a spot called Brooklyn’s Finest Pizza.

“Babe, I hope you know that I’m gonna be critical of this place. I’m originally from New York so I’m gonna be critical if it doesn’t taste like authentic Brooklyn-style pizza,” she informs him.

“I expect nothing less,” he replies, as they get out of the car.

They walk towards the pizzeria and go inside, excited to see that it isn’t packed. They order their pizza and sit down at a table to wait for their pizza to come out.

“Do you come here often?” she asks him.

“Not really. I usually would just come here on off days, but not every off day. Can’t really eat too much of this stuff during the season,” he informs her.

“All I’m saying is that it wouldn’t kill you guys to not be so strict with your diet plans once in a while,” she replies, sending her family all the videos and pictures she’s taken so far.

Their food comes out and they pick it up before heading back to the table. They dig in right away and Cale waits for her reaction.

“It’s really good for not being in New York. These people know what they’re doing. I’m impressed,” she smiles, enjoying the Brooklyn-style pizza.

They eat while talking about what the following day entails, since it’s Game 1 of the 1st round of the playoffs. After a while, they finish eating and clean up. They leave the pizzeria and head back to the car.

“We’re gonna go to one more spot before heading back home and then going somewhere you’re gonna really like for dinner,” he informs her.

“Now you got me excited,” she replies, looking forward to dinner.

They make their way towards the next destination, which is City Park.

“This is the biggest park in the city. It’s kind of like our own version of Central Park but way smaller,” he informs her.

They drive inside the park and make their way towards the Zoo. They park in the parking lot and make their way to the Zoo entrance. They buy tickets and make their way inside the Zoo. They go through each exhibit and Taty enjoys seeing the aquatic animals the most, like the penguins. After almost two hours, they finish going through the Zoo. They then walk back to their car and drive through the rest of the park, enjoying the view of it. They then drive back to the apartment to relax before leaving for dinner.

They arrive at the apartment and Cale goes straight to the room to nap. Taty goes to the living room and decides to get some work done, while he takes his nap. After an hour, Cale wakes up from his nap.

“Ready to go?” he asks her, coming out of the room.

“Yeah just give me a minute to put my stuff away,” she informs him, turning off her laptop.

She puts her stuff away and grabs her small purse. He grabs his keys from the counter and they make their way out of the apartment. They make their way to the car and drive off towards the restaurant.

“Just so you know, this is gonna be a pretty long drive,” he informs her.

“How long?” she asks.

“An hour,” he informs her.

“How far out is this place?” she asks.

“Over 50 miles from here, but it’ll be worth it. I promise,” he assures her, as they make their way towards the highway.

They listen to music the entire ride, as Taty takes in the view of the mountains, the further they get away from the city. After what feels like forever, but really it was only an hour, they arrive at their destination.

“Babe, why are we at a mall?” she asks, getting out of the car.

“Because the restaurant is located inside the mall,” he informs her.

They make their way inside the mall and walk over towards the restaurant entitled MY Tastee’s Cajun & Dominican Food.

“I can’t believe you brought me to a Domincian restaurant!” she smiles, not believing how thoughtful he is.

“I figured you probably miss the food right now,” he replies, as they walk inside the restaurant.

They get seated and Taty immediately opens the menu, getting excited to see what native food they have on the menu.

“Babe, they have everything here! Sancocho, Mangu con los tres golpes, Mofongo, Bistec Dominicano!” she gushes, not believing that he actually found a Dominican restaurant for her.

“Your challenge is to find me the healthiest Dominican food on the menu for me,” he smiles.

“Well everything on here is not part of your diet plan but I guess I can try my best,” she winces, knowing how unhealthy Domincan food can be.

“I’m joking. It doesn’t have to be healthy,” he assures her.

The waiter comes and they order drinks before Taty orders Sancocho (dominican soup) for Cale, since it’s like the healthiest Domincan item on the menu. She then orders rice, beans, bistec, and tostones for herself.

“I still can’t believe you found this place! They’re even playing Dominican music in here!” she gushes, taking notice of the merengue song playing in the background.

“It wasn’t easy, trust me,” he replies.

They make small talk, with Taty explaining dominican food to him. After a short while, their food arrives and they dig in right away.

“Wow this soup is really good. What type of potatoes are these?” he asks.

“Those aren’t potatoes babe. They’re roots or as we call them biberes. It’s yucca, yautia, and batata,” she informs him.

“Oh well, they’re really good,” he smiles.

She loves how flavorful her bistec is and the tostones are so crisp.

“Wow, this is good authentic Dominican food. I’m impressed,” she smiles, the food making her think of home.

“I told you it would be worth it,” he smiles.

They finish eating and pay before leaving. They head back to the car to make the trip back to the car. It’s on the ride back that she starts thinking about how she’s falling in love with Cale and it finally hits her that this is what being in love feels like and she never wants it to end.

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bunkershotgolf · 6 years ago

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WILL THE TIGER 2.0 ERA SPUR GOLF PARTICIPATION?

A Conversation with TGA Premier Golf Founder Joshua Jacobs

Of all the nationwide programs dedicated to sustainably growing golf participation, one of the most consistent and compelling is TGA Premier Golf (TGA). TGA, founded in 2003 by entrepreneur and former college golfer Joshua Jacobs, is on pace to enroll its ONE-MILLIONTH student in its dynamic in-school and after-school enrichment and camp programs by the end of 2020.

In the fall of 2003, while helping his little sister choose her after school programs, Jacobs noticed golf was not on the menu of activities offered to elementary students. He recognized an opportunity to develop an innovative program that could introduce youngsters (ages 3-13) to his favorite sport. Powered by a breakthrough PhD-developed curriculum and the passion of its 125 franchise owners, TGA has seen sustained growth and has become the leading delivery system for introductory and recreational junior golf programs nationwide.

TGA recently completed a $750,000 curriculum and business infrastructure investment to streamline operations and help facilitate local franchise and golf participation growth more efficiently. It also lays the foundation for future expansion strategies across the TGA system including 50-75 new franchises and increasing the number of programs from 7,200 to 15,000 by 2021. TGA currently has 128 franchises in 75 markets across 28 states.

Jacobs has become one of the golf industry’s leading experts on growing participation in the sport. He was named one of the Top 40 most influential people in golf under 40 by GOLF Magazine and was recognized as one of golf’s “Innovators” by Golf Inc. He served on PGA of America’s Golf 2.0 Player Development Board, the Southern California PGA’s Foundation Advisory Board and the Player Development Board. He is also an associate member of the PGA of America and a member of the World Golf Foundation Advisory Board.

We caught up with Joshua Jacobs to talk about the success of TGA’s business model, how it impacts the sport, and how the golf industry could position itself for a “Tiger Effect 2.0.”

Now that Tiger Woods has won his fifth Masters, much of the golf industry is hoping for a windfall of participation and spending that mirrors the Tigermania era of 1997-2009. Is that a realistic expectation in 2019?

The last 5-7 years the PGA TOUR’s viewership, sponsorships, purses, etc. have all grown but that hasn’t translated to more people playing golf. The number of golfers, even though they are down are masking a greater challenge that the average age of a golfer is getting older. I believe Tiger’s resurgent success will move the needle with current golfers wanting to play and spend more, increased demand for non-golfers to take up golf, off course participation and spending and online golf coverage and content. This means we have a higher probability to create on course golfers but this doesn’t mean the supply of new golfers will increase, which the industry needs to concentrate on.

Look at it this way: If 200 people who have never played golf before walked into a pro shop at the same time, would that course have the infrastructure to handle the influx of new golfers? The industry is working towards creating that infrastructure, with new Professional training such as the pga.coach platform along with additional introductory and recreational junior and family programming. TGA can play a major role in making golf available to the masses and transitioning them to facilities in local communities, but we are just one cog in the wheel of programs that take place at facilities. If Tiger continues his stellar play, and I hope he does, we can capture the demand if we build an infrastructure of scalable and replicable programs. This won’t happen overnight, or in 2019, but I also don’t think Tiger’s going anywhere by tomorrow.

If there is a Tiger Effect 2.0, what should the industry do to take better advantage of the increased exposure and interest in the sport?

One area where we are seeing growth but already have tremendous infrastructure are competitive programs. Golf does a great job in this sector, especially in the junior ranks. Between PGA Junior League, local U.S. Kids Tours, PGA Section Tours, AJGA and IJGT there are a multitude of options if you want to compete as a junior. Collegiate golf has also never been stronger and NextGenGolf filled a void for recreational / competitive players in that age bracket and slightly older who want to compete and socialize. We are also seeing more and more amateur tours and leagues are popping up for various age groups after college, all with momentum.

If Tiger 2.0 happens, we should consider creating additional self-sustaining, scalable and replicable introductory and recreational programs for consumers, that take place both on and off golf courses. These programs would need to satisfy all age and skill buckets while creating transformational experiences related to the sport. Creating these programs is the easy part, whereas customer acquisition, educating current and potential golfers about the opportunities in golf and delivering them locally will be the most time consuming and costly endeavor.

Bringing golf to the masses through these types of programs remains the void of the industry for both juniors and adults. If we invested in those as an industry, with the consumer demand for golf the National Golf Foundation is preaching, participation and spending throughout the industry would significantly increase.

What, in your mind, has fallen short with previous "Grow the Game" campaigns and how can the industry spend its time more wisely if it really wants to see growth?

Well, let’s pinpoint the goal more precisely than the over-used and over-arching term, “Grow the Game.” “Growing participation” or “growing rounds played” can have specific action items that guide our game plan and use of resources locally and nationally. Some of these campaigns (Play Golf America, While We’re Young, etc.) have been fabulous in concept but unless they are executed and permeate local communities, we need to temper expectations.

What’s fallen short with previous growing the game “programs” is that they are not self-sustaining, scalable or replicable. That doesn’t mean they all need to be under the same brand, but the experience, price point and delivery system need to be similar.

From a junior golf perspective, the 800-lb gorilla is certainly The First Tee. While it’s hard to say anything critical about an organization that impacts students in such a positive way throughout lower-income areas, as an industry that wants and needs to grow, we simply need to acknowledge that The First Tee is wonderful at what they do, but it has not moved the needle in terms of growing junior golf participation rates.

I get asked the same question all the time: “Is TGA like The First Tee?” Or often we hear, “You aren’t The First Tee, so we view you as competition.” To set the record straight, TGA is almost perfectly complimentary to The First Tee based on the programs we run and the demographics we serve. There’s almost zero overlap in the schools we serve and the facilities we partner with. That’s why working together could be powerful for the industry but in the end if we don’t, both have meaningful impact on the juniors and communities we serve and the industry. The difference is how our programs and delivery systems are scaled and how our Chapters operate locally. TGA started on a $150,000 budget and has taken zero investment dollars over our lifetime, whereas The First Tee has been given over $200 million in its lifetime.

Can the success of non-traditional golf venues like TopGolf and simulator-focused sports bars realistically help the core golf industry hook (and retain) more active golfers?

The industry morphing the definition of “golf” is heading us in the right direction. There’s a ton of opportunity to engage new customers to green grass through TopGolf and Drive Shack-type facilities along with e-sports gaming. But we must be more locally coordinated in our efforts to lead casual players to becoming avid golfers. If the goal is to transition golfers to green grass, then local on and off course facilities need to work together for mutual benefit.

So, the golf industry has gotten more-clever at attracting interest. How do we keep golfers motivated to keep playing?

The coordination has to happen at the local community level. We’ve had success with TGA because we empower entrepreneurs to create experiences that transform the way our students and families feel about golf, which retains them in the sport. Introductory programs are successful when they break down traditional barriers to entry into the sport and offer a pathway for consumers to keep playing. In order to replicate that model and philosophy, programs need to be self-sustaining with vested stakeholders delivering them. That’s where our franchise model and owners excel.

What is it about your TGA franchise model that makes it work so well at the grassroots level?

Golf is always grown at the grassroots level. Having local entrepreneurs vested in growing the sport makes the franchise model work well. From an industry standpoint, a TGA franchise’s compensation is based on growing the participation pie of golf and retaining the families they’ve engaged. If the NGF’s numbers regarding how much spending each participant brings to the sport on a yearly basis, TGA has contributed over $200MM to the golf economy over the past 15 years. How many other businesses in the golf industry can we say are 70 percent based on creating new golfers? Just a small cog in a big wheel, but a cog that makes the wheels bigger.

Your franchise opportunities have been a successful means for entrepreneurs to add or change careers while following their passion for youth sports and golf. As founder, how gratifying it is that TGA is just as rewarding for its franchise owners as it is for the students?

One of the things I love about TGA is that financial ROI for the business owner is directly tied to successfully activating and retaining students and families in the sport. Owning a sports franchise is a dream come true for many people, so we see our franchise owners take to the process with a particular spark and ingenuity.

When we see, for example, a golf franchise owner add tennis or some of our team sports products, it's a sign they've made an impact in their community and the model and delivery system works. They've built relationships with families based on a shared enthusiasm that sports change lives. The more they effectively spread their passion for sports, the more success they have in their business. That's a pretty cool way to spend your working life.

Frequently, I point to TGA business owners like Brad Kirkpatrick, our owner/territory director of TGA of Greater Seattle. Brad’s a former financial, business and team leadership consultant for companies like Ernst & Young, Kibble & Prentice and Washington Mutual. Brad’s found a career that feeds his passion for golf—he’s a low-single-digit golfer--- and affords him the kind of work-life balance he never found in the financial sector. Brad’s added tennis and other team sports programs and now owns three territories in the Pacific Northwest. His enthusiasm for sports and keeping families excited about playing has driven his success as a business owner.

TGA is still the only youth sports franchise model dedicated to the sport of golf. What made you decide on developing a franchise model in the first place?

Some of it had to do with lack of startup capital and the other part had to do with the feedback we were getting from PGA and LPGA Professionals more than a decade ago. They were asking to replicate our business opportunity while receiving sales, marketing and product / programming support. It screamed franchising and to create a community of people whose mission and “why” were the same. Our brand is prevalent but the premise of our operations and curriculum are what drive our business and golf participation forward.

A good sign that introductory junior programs are working is that its participants follow the pathway to competitive golf programs like high school golf or Drive, Chip and Putt. Are there some fun examples of TGA kids using TGA as a springboard to other great experiences in golf?

70 percent of TGA participants and their families have never played golf before and last year, we had over 250 TGA students enter Drive Chip and Putt qualifiers. One of them made it to the finals at Augusta National. We also had a high school State Champion come out of Michigan and are hearing of quite a few high school players who started in TGA after-school programs. The key to the retaining juniors from introductory and recreational programs to the competitive atmosphere is having solid local infrastructure. If local programs don’t support each other and the pathway, we face the very-real risk of losing juniors and families to other activities or sports.

Most junior golf programs have a high attrition rate. What are the factors that contribute to a child "falling out" of a junior program?

Successful junior golf programs have fun and engaging teachers / coaches, great consumer education and a player pathway of programs for juniors and their families to participate in. When you find a program or Professional with all three, they’ve won the game.

Crucial to TGA’s success has been that we bring the sport to the consumer (in an in-school or after-school environment) and don’t rely on them coming to us.

What can be done to make junior golf’s growth more sustainable overall?

The industry can work together to make the sport more available and accessible while providing a seamless player pathway and strong consumer communication and education. Golf needs to be “fun-first” brand while providing transformational experiences for every age and skill level. For the first time, we have competitors on the PGA TOUR playing for millions of dollars high fiving, fist bumping and complimenting each other mid-round. It’s fun to see and that can be contagious. Tiger’s resurgence is happening at a perfect time.

#golf #sports

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limomay · 3 years ago

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Luxury Transportation services

Are you due for some R&R? A mini-break is a great way to relax and unwind, without having to take time off work. To put an end to the stress of the week, book a party bus or limo and take a ride to Topgolf. You can have a great time whether you are planning a bachelor or family party, a birthday, or simply looking to relax. Are you looking for more reasons to visit Topgolf? These are the top five reasons to visit Topgolf.

Full-Service Restaurant and Bar

After a round of golf, your stomach will be rumbling. You can choose from a variety of bar bites, burgers and sandwiches as well as desserts to keep you full. You can order seasonal cocktails or make your own beer bucket. Or you can take a Golfbag with you on the road luxury transportation. You don't have to choose a driver. You don't need to hire a driver.

Safely Spared Hitting Bays

Do you worry about social distancing within your bubble? Bachelor parties and family events can offer privacy from other golfers. Topgolf offers a spacious outdoor experience with protective bay dividers, and 11 feet between tee and tee. Did we mention that every bay is climate-controlled for a pleasant experience throughout the year?

Easy Online Booking

Topgolf does not allow you to call ahead to reserve a bay, but they have a new way for you to book your slot online. Reserve a bay online to be moved up the waitlist for the bay you want.

Packages for Game and Coach Play

Are you still a beginner when it comes golf? You can improve your skills and take your game to the next stage with private lessons. A coaching package can be purchased in-venue and provides some guidance for your team before the competition.

Event Planning

Are you planning to visit for a bachelor party, birthday party, or company event? Topgolf allows you to plan the perfect party for small groups, large groups, or multi-location events. You can make the competition even more fun by creating a live leaderboard that displays the scores and rankings for everyone at your party.

Rent a limousine or party bus to make your Topgolf trip extra special. To arrive in style, call our transportation coordinator!

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lasvegasrealestatecom · 5 years ago

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Las Vegas Golf Course Living

Dreaming about living on a Las Vegas golf course? Read on! There was a time when real estate agents could confidently tell their clients that one of the biggest advantages of owning a home on a golf course is that the verdant view would be permanent. Today, many owners face a view of brown, dead fairways, vandalized buildings, and uncertainty about what may pop up if or when the land is sold. Chalk it up to the busyness of Americans. The lengthy game of golf has declined in popularity, leaving course owners to deal with the consequences. Or, blame the oversupply of golf courses and the waning of Tiger-mania (among other reasons), as John Eidukot at GolfOperatorMagazine.com does. Whatever the reasons, “More than 200 courses closed in 2017, while about 15 opened,” according to Newser.com editors, quoting National Golf Foundation figures. Here at LasVegasRealEstate.com, we are frequently asked these three questions: Is a golf course home worth more than a home not on a golf course? Is a golf course home a good investment? What are the pros and cons of golf course living? Here’s what we know, the good and the bad.

The future of Las Vegas Golf Course Living

It’s not all doom and gloom for the $84 billion-dollar golf industry. Nearly 40 percent of Americans (107 million, to be more precise) either played, read about, or watched golf in 2018, according to the National Golf Foundation’s 2019 Golf Industry Report. The report also found that participation has stabilized. Gone are the crazy statistics of drop-out golfers. In fact, last year, participation rates climbed. The report credits this growth, in part, to “popular off-course forms of the game such as Topgolf, Drive Shack and indoor simulators.” Since our children are our future, there is encouraging news in the number of young golfers taking up the sport. “There were 2.5 million junior golfers last year ” the report claims and “an estimated 2.6 million beginners (those who played on a golf course for the first time) in 2018, which is near record levels and marks the fifth straight year with over 2 million newcomers.” It appears that it’s far too soon to call time-of-death for the game of golf and, by extension, the American golf course.

5 tips to consider if you’ve been thinking about buying a home in a golf course community

While living across the street from the fairways offers a homeowner additional privacy (no neighbor in front), it also provides a birds-eye-view to golfers. The golfers' view is even better when wandering through your yard to retrieve balls. Choose your location within the golf community carefully. Homes along the right side, nearest to the tee box, are statistically at higher risk for wandering golfers searching for errant balls. The right side also means more damage from those errant balls. One golfer/golf course homeowner we spoke with suggested playing the course before buying a home. "Playing will help you determine if the home you have your eye on is ideally located." While we stress the importance to all homebuyers interested in purchasing a home in a managed community to read the HOA documents thoroughly, it’s even more critical when considering a home on a golf course. Is netting prohibited? Are there rules against entering the course from your property? While golf participation is stabilizing, and fewer courses are closing, keep in mind that it’s still a buyers’ market in this real estate niche. You are in the drivers’ seat, by and large, in negotiations. No, you don’t need to be a golfer to enjoy golf course living. In fact, it’s estimated that only about a quarter of residents who live on or near courses play the game. They purchased the home to enjoy the scenic view. Their quality of life enhanced by the enjoyment of not having a neighbor’s home facing theirs and the peaceful evenings. Even if you do play, you may want to restrict your search for a golf course home for sale to communities that offer other amenities as well, such as walking paths or a swimming pool.

Thinking of selling your Las Vegas golf course home?

Realtor.com analyzed listings of homes for sale in 273 U.S. counties. They found that those listings that included the word “golf” took, on average, 75 days to sell. These homes eventually sold for 14 percent more than the median sale price for the area and nearly 30 percent more than the nationwide median home price. Of course, all real estate is local and markets change so the “mileage” here in Las Vegas may vary. Feel free to reach out to our Preferred Partner: Residential Realtor for a complimentary, no-obligation determination of your home’s likely market value. Tell them LasVegasRealEstate.com sent you and happy golf views to you! Thank you for reading our post, “Las Vegas Golf Course Living.” For more Las Vegas Golf Course tips, multi-family tips, home buying, home selling, information on moving to Las Vegas, Las Vegas real estate market news, information on Las Vegas homes for sale, buying a home in Las Vegas, or general real estate information please visit our website www.lasvegasrealestate.com. Read the full article

#lasvegasrealestate #birdie #golfinglife #holeinone #lasvegasgolfcourse #lasvegasgolfcourseliving #lifeonagolfcourse #livinginlasvegas #livingonagolfcourse #realestate #topgolf

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thisisgolf · 7 years ago

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Golf for Millenials

At clothing manufacturer Under Armour, golf as a classification has actually expanded 25 percent in 3 years and also is just one of its fastest expanding sectors, stated Kevin Ross, the vice head of state as well as basic supervisor of UA's worldwide golf. "We have constantly located ourselves to be the 'brand name of the future generation.'".

Foray Golf, a business started in 2014 by a previous Victoria's Secret exec, expenses itself as "not your mommy's golf clothing," with younger looking shorts, tee shirts as well as devices.

To ensure, millennials are not as thinking about investing 5 hrs on a fairway playing the sporting activity the typical method. The complete variety of gamers finishing a typical 18-hole round is down over 1 percent in the previous year, the National Golf Structure stated. Virtually 70 percent of the 468 million rounds played in 2016 were played by golf enthusiasts over age 50.

Off-course centers are attracting the young. Over 4 million young people have just skilled the sporting activity at an off-course center such as an owning variety.

The National Golf Structure's yearly research study of golf engagement in the USA discovered that 36 percent of the almost 24 million golf enthusiasts in the USA are young people matured 18 to 39, as well as over 15 million added millennials revealed passion in occupying the video game.

It is additionally an opportunity to gain females as consumers. Women golf enthusiasts make up 40 percent of the more than 8 million millennials skewing site visitors to off-course centers such as Topgolf, and also ladies comprise over one-third of the 3 million jr golf players in the USA.

Golf Digest's Leadbetter has a lesson of her very own for millennials thinking about the video game: "Golf could open up numerous doors, so leave the sofa, quit scrolling with Instagram, as well as go strike some rounds at your neighborhood owning array!".

Millennial golf players are taking a breath life right into the sporting activity regardless of a constant stream of fairway closures in cities and also communities throughout the nation.

That has actually increased the appeal of areas like Topgolf, a souped up owning variety that provides food, beverages as well as various other tasks and also runs 33 places globally, with 16 even more in numerous phases of advancement.

" Millennials desire an identical experience, as well as Topgolf is improved 4 points everybody enjoys-- play, food and also beverages, songs and also neighborhood" Erik Anderson, co-chairman as well as Chief Executive Officer of Topgolf Home entertainment Team informed CNBC.

The firm additionally funds females's events like a current one at New york city's Chelsea Piers sporting activities facility, that includes a golf variety. "Females of all degrees concern our occasions since they understand it's the ideal point to do-- they intend to play as well as become part of the video game, however they seem like there are many obstacles." LaMothe claimed. "With us, it's simply an enjoyable women' evening that assists develop a bigger network of females that wish to be included.".

The business funds millennial professional golf player Jordan Spieth, 24, the champion of the 2017 British Open, as well as Stephen Curry, 29, a family member novice to the sporting activity. Curry, a two-time NBA MVP, played his very first expert competition as a golf enthusiast previously this month.

This rise has millennials on course to surpass all various other age as the biggest market share in the sporting activity, and also lots of in the sector have actually made note.

Hally Leadbetter, Golf Digest's supervisor of social media sites, is functioning making the sporting activity much more easily accessible to youngsters, and also indicate social networks websites like Barstool Sports and also No Injuring as locations that attract beginners to the sporting activity by satirizing it. "Accounts like Barstool Sports and also No Disabling are terrific. The amusing method these electrical outlets handle the video game is critical for getting to brand-new demographics as well as rebranding golf as something 'trendy.'".

" Among the major factors that ladies as well as millennials remain off the fairway is since they do not such as the garments choices" claimed Megan LaMothe, Venture Golf's owner. "They seem like they're wearing their grandma's storage room.".

Under Armour presented a ladies's golf garments line in 2014 as well as has actually considering that struck over $1 billion in sales. "We understand there is an expanding hunger for more youthful, style onward item to furnish her on the program and also in every element of her life." Ross stated.

" We are likewise observant of that leveraging group sporting activities professional athletes, like Steph Curry, as well as their fondness for the sporting activity not just permits us to get to a more youthful target market yet additionally develops a 'awesome aspect' that the video game does not see typically," Ross included.

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williammurraygolf · 8 years ago

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ATX Pointers For WGC Dell Match Play Participants & Spectators

The PGA Tour is set to get it done Austin-style this week—in town a second-consecutive year for the WGC Dell Match-Play, getting underway Wednesday at Austin Country Club.

Having spent time on the road at several Tour events the past few years, we’ve relied on the advice of friends and locals to always steer us towards the best a town has to offer. William Murray calls Austin, Texas home and for our friends on and around the Tour—a few suggestions for you while you’re looking for fun in our spirited city.

Austin Country Club is a good dozen miles northwest of the area William Murray calls home, so most of our suggestions will be based in this area. You’re also going to want to take advantage of your courtesy cars as well-known ride-sharing options pulled up there stakes and left a while ago. (It’s a long story, but should you be interested…)

Quick disclaimer; we’re coming off two weeks of SXSW and rolling right into a PGA Tour party week—so bear with us. Working to bounce back before situations escalate at ACC starting on Wednesday.

In no particular order:

— There’s a TopGolf in Austin. We realize there are over three dozen more locations nationwide, but the fact we have one in our backyard deserves mention. If you’re in from out of town to take in some WGC action and have never visited a TopGolf, it’s worth your time. Food and drinks, music and golf—firing at targets, focused on having fun instead of competition—the evening will fly by. Our location is less than ten miles from Austin Country Club.

— For the purist looking for a different experience, but not quite in the mood to commit half a day to playing 18 holes—the Butler Park Pitch and Putt has been an Austin tradition since 1950 and makes for a fun outing. The nine-hole “Butler Park” course features 805 yards of golf (from the longest tees for a par of 27). This par-3 course is near downtown Austin, the Hike and Bike Trail and Lady Bird Lake (all worth checking out, as well.) Not enough vintage spots like this exist in this day and age. Worth checking out for a twilight round if you have the time.

— Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is a must for the movie-buff. The chain began in Austin back in 1997 and part of its charm is old school etiquette—no babies, no talking or texting during the movie, no showing up late. Aware-winning cuisine, exceptional cocktails and the finest craft beers enhance your experience of taking in the latest and greatest films, as well as retro ones that occasionally make a comeback in 35mm. Check out any one of the handful of local locations. We’re fans of the location on Lamar Street and have done some damage at The Highball next door; especially in the private karaoke rooms. Garage Bar is also a stones throw from the area and is a worthwhile option to get things rolling. — Austin City Limits remains legendary and if you’re around through Sunday evening, Dave Chappelle—fresh off two new Netflix specials—is doing a week-long residency. — The bar at the Driskill Hotel is our favorite spot to get an Old Fashioned. Worth posting up and knocking a few back. — Texas BBQ is a must and we all have our favorites. Lamberts on 2nd Street never disappoints, while Frankin BBQ on 11th is a favorite of the man, the myth, the Murray. The Salt Lick is cash-only, so plan accordingly, while Rudy’s features a country store with some great rubs and sauces to bring home with you. — A few non-BBQ food-related lunch or dinner gems worth mentioning; Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, which lives up to it’s billing—as does Ramen Tatsu-ya. You won’t find a better slow-cooked broth for hundred of miles. If you’re on the go downtown, the walk-up Burger Bar on Congress is a game changer. Get it to go and pop over to the bar at the JW Marriott to knock down with a glass of bourbon at the bar. If you ask nicely, they’ll let you knock down a worthwhile snack with a refreshing cocktail. — Regarding nightlife, for any ambitious players with late tee times, or fans skipping the early rounds in favor of a solid night out, sleeping in and a legit breakfast, again, some options. When choosing which direction to go nightlife-wise, you have a few options—West Sixth, Dirty Sixth or Rainey Street your best options. If you go the West route, we’re big fans of Dogwoods, Green Light Social, Steam Punk, Rustic Tap and Parlor and Yard. Dirty is a different beast all together. Casino El Camino is worth a fly-by—a monster burger with a decor and vibe that feels like something out of From Dusk Til Dawn, while The Blind Pig pours a stiff one, offers up some live music and had a legit rooftop patio. Buffalo Billiards is also over that way, should you want to get your stick on. Whistler is another spot featuring both character and characters. If you take it to Rainey, good options are Bungalow, Container Bar, Luster Pearl, Bar 96, Javelina or Bangers—and you’re (sort of) right in the heart of food truck country, with countless evening or late-night grub options.

— Dinner options are endless in Austin, but if looking for something other than beef, beef and more beef, we’re big fans of Uchi or Eberly. — Lastly, whether you’re looking for hangover breakfast after a dinner-less late night out, or a laid back way to start the day—some great breakfast options are available in ATX. 24 Diner is just what you’d expect (in a good way), while South Congress Cafe, June’s and Hillside Farmacy all deliver the goods. (Perlas also offers a solid weekend brunch.) Whatever direction you go, cheers to a great week in Austin.

#Austin #PGATour #DellMatchPlay #theCHIVE #DirtySixth #WestSixth #RaineyStreet #FoodTrucks #Foodie #Texas #BBQ

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