My story: Tournament director
A PGA TOUR tournament has many characteristics. Inside the ropes, it boasts fierce competition featuring the best golfers in the world. But outside the ropes is where it truly differentiates itself from other sporting events. It’s an up close and personal viewing stage for thousands to witness the world’s best. It is a welcoming atmosphere to socialize with friends and family. It is a hospitality platform for businesses to develop and strengthen relationships with key associates. It is an economic engine that attracts visitors from near and far to the region during one special week a year. It is an opportunity for thousands to support the event through volunteerism. In summary, it is a true community celebration broadcasted for the world to see.
Below are three guiding principles that I keep in the forefront as tournament director of the PGA TOUR events that our foundation runs: Quicken Loans National, Deutsche Bank Championship and Hero World Challenge.
1) We are in the experience business. This mantra is at the core of each decision that is analyzed and, ultimately, made. Our team of more than 30 staff members are tasked each day with finding new and innovative ways to create and deliver the best possible experience to everyone in our universe — spectators, volunteers, media, sponsors, players, caddies, vendors and host-site representatives — to name a few.
2) It takes a village. In addition to our staff, who work tirelessly, we rely on the support of thousands of volunteers who devote their time and energy to ensuring we produce successful tournaments. We are grateful for this support and how we are continually embraced by the communities in which we operate.
3) Don’t lose sight of the greater good. Our tournaments play a critical role in supporting the mission of the Tiger Woods Foundation, which is to provide college access to underserved youth. Earlier this year we featured Tiger Woods Foundation scholars — James and Lenny, respectively — at our Quicken Loans National and Deutsche Bank Championship media days. Their stories describing the positive role the Foundation has played in their lives were equally authentic and inspirational. When most of our days are spent planning and executing, it’s refreshing to know that our efforts are making a difference.
