The management firm has joined the PGA Tour, PGA of America and industry leaders including Titleist and Callaway in backing the recently launched initiative that is designed to grow and diversify golf by inviting people from all backgrounds and skill levels to engage with the game both through traditional and simulated play, and either in-person or through media. KemperSports’ support coincides with a series of special events it is holding through June at its 100-plus properties, as part of its Player Development Month.

KemperSports has signed on as a founding supporter, and the first golf course management company, to bolster the golf industry’s recently launched “Make Golf Your Thing” initiative (https://makegolfyourthing.org). KemperSports joins the PGA Tour, the PGA of America and other industry leaders, including Titleist and Callaway, in support of the movement.

“Make Golf Your Thing” is designed to grow and diversify the sport by inviting people from all backgrounds and skill levels to engage with the game of golf in their own way—from traditional 9- and 18-hole rounds or simulated play, to enjoying a tournament in-person or on TV.

KemperSports has kicked off its support of the initiative with a series of special events throughout the month of June at its 100-plus properties across the country, to coincide with the company’s Player Development Month, an annual celebration to help newcomers and returning players learn the game and sharpen their skills.

KemperSports launched the initiative under its All Welcome program, a year-round integrated and inclusive marketing campaign to support player development. The program invites guests—both players and spectators—to join in on social events in a casual, open environment.

KemperSports properties across the country will also focus on providing instructional opportunities as well as special events for all levels of players, including golf clinics, virtual/social instructional content, and complimentary 15-minute lessons.

“As a new player myself, I know how important a welcoming environment is to feel comfortable and confident on the course—and I’m not alone,” said Kristine Rose, KemperSports’ Senior Vice President of Marketing.

“Our KemperSports Golfer Insights Survey, representing thousands of players, confirmed that the ‘fun factor’ is important to new golfers, with more than 40 percent confirming that golf social events or activities would motivate them to play more rounds in 2021,” Rose added. “This goes to show that the golf industry is changing, and the ‘new golfer’ is taking a more social, casual approach to the game.

“As a golf course management company, it’s crucial for us to not only understand these changes, but to help our clients and properties play a role in this exciting next chapter for golf,” Rose said.

Added Matt Corey, Chief Marketing Officer of the PGA Tour: “We want to invite everyone to try golf in their own way. We’re excited by the support, enthusiasm and innovation KemperSports and its facilities all over the country are bringing to our collective efforts to grow and diversify the game. KemperSports continues to be committed to implementing actionable programming that supports the growth of golf, and we are grateful for their leadership.”