Golf Industry Leaders Meet with Legislators for Annual ‘Florida Golf Day’ in Tallahassee

Game’s Direct Economic Impact in Florida Increased to $8.2 Billion in 2013

(TALLAHASSEE, Fla.) – Golf Florida Alliance – a collaboration of leading organizations representing all segments of the state’s golf industry – celebrated “Florida Golf Day” today at the State Capitol.

Industry leaders met with members of the House of Representatives and Senate to discuss the industry’s economic impact, growth of youth development programs and enhanced sustainability procedures.

Last week, GOLF 20/20 reported golf’s direct economic impact in Florida was $8.2 billion in 2013, an increase from $7.5 billion in 2007. The state’s golf industry supports 132,532 jobs and $3.6 billion in wage income. Florida is home to 1,103 golf courses, the most of any U.S. state.

Florida Golf Day attendees included the Club Managers Association of America, Florida Chapter of Club Managers Association of America, Florida Golf Course Superintendents Association, Florida Historic Golf Trail, Florida State Golf Association, Golf Channel, Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, LPGA, National Golf Course Owners Association, North and South Florida Sections of the PGA of America, PGA of America, PGA TOUR, The First Tee, USGA, World Golf Foundation and World Golf Hall of Fame.

“With the most golf courses nationally, Florida’s contributions to the industry and economy are unrivaled,” says Steve Mona, CEO of the World Golf Foundation and administrator of GOLF 20/20. “As evidenced by significant statewide growth over the last six years, the game is a key revenue driver at the local level and provides billions of annual wage income each year.”

“With an $8.2 billion economic impact and over 132,000 jobs created, the golf industry provides significant positive economic stimulus for Florida,” says Senator Garrett Richter (R-Fla.), Chair for the Committee on Ethics and Elections. “I enjoyed meeting with industry representatives here in Tallahassee to learn more about the good work that they do and to learn how I can improve my game.”

An interactive swing zone was set up in the Capitol Courtyard and featured PGA Professionals who ranked in the “Top 50 Golf Teachers” in America. In addition, House and Senate members competed in a charity putting contest and attendees had the opportunity for a picture with THE PLAYERS Championship replica trophy.

In January, Florida hosted the “PGA Merchandise Show” in Orlando with more than 40,000 attendees and exhibitors from around the world. In total, the state will host 20 professional golf tournaments in 2015: five PGA TOUR, three Champions Tour, two LPGA Tour, one Web.com Tour, four Legends Tour and five Symetra Tour events.

More info: www.golf2020.com, www.wearegolf.com