USGA Rulings Hurting the Game
November 28th, 2007 by 
admin
How has the industry been affected?
Well it has affected it in many ways. Golf club sales are down immensely over the past three years. The ruling on COR and head size had a huge impact on this in my opinion. It has slowed the development of new technology being brought to the market. Most likely the driver you purchased a few years ago is just as good or better then what has been developed the last three years. The only new technology that has been developed since 2003 is the adjustable weight. Prior to their ruling ground breaking technology was coming out almost everyday.
The PGA has done many positive things in regards to maintaining the nostalgia of the game. One of these is to bring this game to a wider audience. They have tried to speed up the game to allow for more rounds. They have spent millions of dollars in advertising to bring more viewers to the sport. They have started hundreds of foundations to allow for all income brackets the luxury of playing this great game.
However the ruling on COR and head size for all USGA functions might backfire on them. These rulings have had a major impact on the sales at local Pro Shops all over the country. Many Pro Shops are closing or having to alter what they sell in their shops to stay afloat. Fewer pro shops mean fewer locations for golfers to access golf equipment and learning centers.
Should there be two sets of rules? Should there be one set of rules for PGA Professionals and one for Amateur golfers?
Why do amateur golfers have to play by the same set of rules as PGA professionals? We don’t have the same resources or equipment as the pros have now. If you ever have the luxury of going to a tour event and getting behind the ropes you will quickly learn the pros not only have more skill then most of us but they also have better equipment. My first time in a tour van I found out that what was being sold to the public was not the same as what the pros were playing on tour. The differences between the equipment might sound minor but the end result changed my drives 21.3 yards on average. That’s a HUGE difference if you ask me. So I ask you, should we have to play by their rules?
Adam Beach
http://www.golfideas.com
sales@golfideas.com
Posted in golf equipment | 