South African golfer Dylan Frittelli, who turned pro this week, inked an endorsement deal with Nike and will be sporting Nike head-to-toe at his professional debut at the BMW International in Cologne, Germany this week. Fritteli, who won the 2012 Byron Nelson award, given to the the U.S. college golfer with the best playing, academic and community service record, played Nike clubs throughout his college career at the University of Texas, said his agent, Duncan Reid of IMG. Reid did not discuss the financial terms of the Nike deal, but said his familiarity with Nike clubs was a big factor in his decision to sign with Nike Golf. Reid: "It is something he didn't want to change. He has been so successful (with Nike clubs) there was no reason to change." Sources said a number of other equipment companies were also interested in signing Frittelli, including Callaway Golf. Reid is based out of IMG's London offices, and he said one of the reasons Frittelli chose IMG is because of the company's global reach and ability to get sponsors exemptions and invitations all over the world. Reid: "This year, his first goal is to get a card of some kind." Frittelli also plans on attending Q School in the U.S. this fall. This year is the last year that amateurs can go to Q School to earn a PGA Tour card under new qualifying rules.
