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At the risk of disappointing my sixth-grade English teacher, here’s how I spell passion: U-S-G-A. In my five months on the job here it has become abundantly clear that I’m in the right place, because my passion for this great game is matched by colleagues who come to work each day with an unbowed commitment to serve golfers, courses, members and partners worldwide.
Passion, however necessary and important, is just one ingredient to success. The true measure is turning that passion into positive action that not only improves the game today but leaves it in better shape in 2030, 2050 and 2070. Because the next generation is counting on us.
It’s amazing how many roles the USGA plays. While most of you think “United States Golf
Association” when you see our USGA logo, we define ourselves in a slightly different manner:
U – Unify
We’re here to unify the game, by creating an equal playing field through handicapping. The World Handicap System, USGA Course Rating and GHIN all play a part in what might be the coolest aspect of golf, one that separates us from other sports. An equal playing field for athletes of different abilities, backgrounds or ages doesn’t exist in hockey or baseball or even tennis. Golf is special, and we are going to make sure it stays that way.
S – Showcase
We showcase the best players in the world by providing them the stage to achieve their dreams, whether they’re a junior, a mid-amateur, a senior, or a tour professional in the U.S. Open or U.S. Women’s Open. This is yet another aspect that makes golf the greatest game – you don’t see many 59-year-old baseball players on a national stage, or a 55-year-old hockey player matched up against a fresh-faced 15-year-old.
G – Govern
We govern with a focus on the best interests of the game, without bias. We rely on data, collaboration and expertise that provide a solid framework for the game to grow, innovate and evolve. Every sport needs a traffic cop. You may not always like us being the traffic cop, but we accept the responsibility to give the game common rules, professional/amateur guidelines, and decisions that ensure the game is thriving in 20, 50 and 100 years.
A – Advance
We advance the game to enable a future that is even better than the game we play today. This means ensuring that golfers of all races, genders and ages have access and feel welcome. This starts with juniors and continues through a golfer’s lifelong journey in the game. It also means pursuing a better on-course experience through our Green Section, resulting in a more enjoyable game and more efficient management of water, fuel and resources.
This is our internal blueprint, and the areas where we are committed to growing the game. I hope you’ll continue to join us as we navigate golf into the next 100 years. Golf is literally at an all-time high, and as such, we feel the responsibility to take this opportunity to think big, act with purpose, and stay committed to an even better future.
Thank you for your passion and support. I’m proud to be your teammate, and your golf buddy, as we work together for the good of the game!
Former LPGA Tour Commissioner Mike Whan took over as the USGA's CEO this past summer.