Many pro golfers, "particularly those who aren't
recognized solely by their first names, are finding
themselves deal-less this year," according to Scott Kramer
of GOLF MAGAZINE, who writes that the "slumping club market
has strapped manufacturers who are now allocating their Tour
endorsement money elsewhere." Kramer adds that aside from
"charisma" and the "willingness" to make public appearances
and play in corporate outings, a "club spokesman today ...
also must provide feedback on new clubs, carry the minimum
number of [clubs] (particularly on Thursdays when surveyors
go through his bag), and sign autographs." Additionally, an
endorser "won't try out competitors' clubs or be
controversial. And, of course, he needs to win." Pros Inc.
agent Vinny Giles said that the "biggest recent change" in
endorsement deals has been the "enforcement of clauses
requiring players to participate in advertising, corporate
days, and sales meetings." Meanwhile, companies "claim"
that "many of today's stars don't show enough personality,"
but "that's not to say it won't develop." Golf agent Barry
Terjesen: "Jack Nicklaus was vanilla at first and he
blossomed. David Duval has the possibility to establish a
terrific endorsement presence" (GOLF MAGAZINE, 4/2000).
THE CHANGING DUVAL? USA TODAY's Jill Lieber profiles
Duval and writes that some of his "friends say they notice
... important changes" about him, including "embracing his
national profile." But there are "parts of Duval that won't
change," as IMG "encouraged him to work with a media
consultant," but Duval, "after one session," said that he's
"much too honest and straightforward to take the
consultant's advice." Duval: "They want me to spin yarns
about myself. And that's not me" (USA TODAY, 3/22).
