Northeast Florida is where we live, work and host one of the world’s most recognized sporting events — THE PLAYERS Championship. On National Golf Day, a day that celebrates the game’s annual $84.1 billion economic impact and nearly $4 billion charitable impact, I am reflective and proud of the decades-long commitment THE PLAYERS has made to our community.
Over the past several years, we’ve seen first-hand the incredible teamwork required to successfully stage the PGA TOUR’s flagship event. From the 2,000-plus volunteers led by our incredible team of Red Coats to our facility and public safety personnel, our Proud Partners in Morgan Stanley, Grant Thornton and Optum, our local vendors, media, business and civic leaders and fans, there is no doubt that the entire Northeast Florida community collectively produces this annual showcase of excellence.
Our team understands the incredible privilege we’ve been given to host the best professional golfers in the world on an iconic golf course while providing spectators, both the 200,000-plus on-site and the millions watching at home, a gold standard experience. However, our founders built and established a core mission, underscoring that we are more than just a golf tournament or a sports league; we are a public trust. And the public should expect good citizenship from its corporate leaders and neighbors.
Since 1977, THE PLAYERS has helped generate more than $100 million for area charities and nonprofit organizations that provide youth enrichment, education, character development, health and wellness, military support and quality of life services in Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties. In addition to year-round efforts to annually strengthen our philanthropic support, we are as equally committed to using this tournament to showcase Northeast Florida on a world stage.
As THE PLAYERS grows in stature, so does the number of out-of-market attendees. Well over half of our attendees come from outside the five-county area. These visitors play a key role in contributing to the tremendous economic impact of the tournament, as hotel occupancy rates in Duval and St. Johns counties during tournament week average around 88 percent, and the week of THE PLAYERS continues to be one of the busiest for Jacksonville International Airport.
As thousands flock to THE PLAYERS Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass each year to enjoy the excitement of a great game, the beauty and warmth of our scenic beaches, river and other amenities, let us be reminded that THE PLAYERS is not just a week-long tournament or a sport; we are committed to driving economic impact and quality of life improvements for youth, citizens and communities throughout the First Coast 365 days a year.
Jared Rice, Executive Director
THE PLAYERS
