Great Tournaments
Are All About the Experience!!
by John Oney, PGA Professional,
Tournament Coach Director – TournEase, Inc.

Everyday the TournEase office is buzzing with calls from tournament directors who are looking for advice on ways to improve their event.  We lend our expertise to these individuals with one thing in mind… great events are all about creating a unique experience. 

I thought I’d share an experience I had as a club professional along with four amateurs who qualified to play on the national stage of the 2001 Buick Scramble at Disney in Orlando, FL. 

After the first day of play concluded all of the teams, spouses included, were shuffled on a charter bus and taken to Disney’s MGM Studios.  Everyone on the bus was having a wonderful time as we rolled up to a park entrance none of us had ever seen.  We flowed off the bus and entered the park welcomed by a marching band and full scale ticker tape parade.  As we strutted down the red carpet cast members ran up to us asking for autographs.  There were photographers documenting the scene along with reporters asking for interviews.  What an entrance!  Everyone felt special… although I’m sure the beverages in the hotel lobby before the bus ride helped a bit.  The entire park was ours for the taking.  No lines, food stations at every turn and access to complimentary drinks were just a chip shot away. 

In addition to all of that we received an amazing gift package with a wind shirt, shoe bag, umbrella, golf glove, golf shoes, gift certificates and golf balls!  All of these items were branded with the Buick Scramble logo.  It was truly an experience much bigger than golf!  Everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves. 

Now, I know what you’re thinking… “We don’t have the time or budget to compete with an event like that!”  Truth is you’re probably right.  However, the point here is that even though we didn’t win, finish top 10 or even make the cut, it was the professional way the tournament was organized and the awesome experience that won’t soon be forgotten. 

Every tournament should provide an experience regardless of the budget.  It’s the branding, the personality and the overall feel of your event that produces a memorable experience.  Consider inviting a local children's choir or high school marching band for entertainment.  Maybe your mayor or a local celebrity will be willing to MC your awards ceremony. 

When it comes to selecting the proper gift you may be restricted by budget, but take time to discuss the many options you have.  You’re just a wine set, shirt & hat combo, or other unique gift away from making memories.  A little bit of creative thinking is all that it takes to put together an unforgettable experience that won’t bust your budget.  Think big!  You’ll be surprised what you can happen.

Here at TournEase, we don’t just come to work to sell products and answer a couple yes / no questions.  We’re here to assist you in providing a world-class experience for your players and sponsors!  Our product specialists are highly trained and experienced in boosting the perceived value for any player gift budget. 

FREE Webinar – Creating an Experience: Tips that Won’t Bust the Budget

Want to learn more about creating an experience? Join me for one of two 30 min sessions where I’ll explain tips, tricks and techniques for making your golf event excitement and memorable.

Tuesday, June 24th, 2:00pm ET
Click here to register.

Thursday, June 26th, 4:00pm ET
Click here to register.

TournEase Tip:
After Party / Awards Dinner

It’s important to make the after party or award dinner fun and first-class.  This is the last impression you’ll have on the players and sponsors.  Set-up a tent or choose a nice banquet room in the clubhouse that’s large enough to accommodate your group.  Be sure there are plenty of places to sit.  Select a master of ceremonies to host the presentation.  Handing out quality awards will lend credibility to the event and excite participants.  Provide a good meal and plenty of drinks.  Offering a dinner only option for non-players and spouses is a great way to include more people and generate additional revenue.