google-site-verification=dWAdcpgmLRDu2KMe_oL_Oi337BBX6W2I3n6LuWAxHZc Justin Thomas encourages golfers to give more access during the broadcast - afgarya news
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Justin Thomas encourages golfers to give more access during the broadcast

Justin Thomas is asking fellow golfers to make themselves more accessible to PGA Tour media partners during telecasts, citing the sport’s need to “better connect with fans.”

“We are very fortunate to have so many people who love to play to watch us each week, but let’s be honest — this game can go a little long sometimes,” Thomas wrote in a memo to fellow PGA Tour golfers.

The memo, obtained and published Tuesday by The Athletic, lists several suggestions from Thomas, who is a member of the PGA Tour’s 16-player council. The two-time award winner cited research showing that “‘on-course personality’ is a strong driver of interest among younger fans (18-34),” and added that “getting the younger age group interested and watching our sport can make a big difference in our popularity.”

Thomas talked about televising some games with live in-game interviews of players and coaches. He listed “pre-round interviews, mid-round interviews, wearing a microphone, communicating any equipment changes/changes you’re working on” as potential ideas for players to help media partners implement in golf coverage.

“I know stepping outside of our comfort zones isn’t always easy,” said Thomas. “Believe me, in the past I was the first to say ‘no’ before things were asked. I wasn’t interested if someone asked for an interview mid-round or suggested trying something new.

“But I also know how much the fans love those moments — hearing our thought processes, conversations with our caddies, our reactions to shots, and understanding the highs and lows of competing at the highest level. … Although we may (at least I know I do) think it’s not that important or that interesting, our fans do.”

Thomas emphasized that he’s “not asking anyone to be someone they’re not or change anything in their routine,” rather he’s asking golfers to be “open to opportunities and changes.”

“The more we work with NBC/CBS/ESPN, the more they should be able to work with us,” he said. “I’m sure many of us feel that television coverage could be better, so let’s help them do that.”

CBS was the first to do a walk-and-talk in Torrey Pines with Max Homa two years ago. Thomas was part of the PAC subcommittee dealing with competitions, supporters and sponsors last year, working with Homa, Mackenzie Hughes and Adam Schenk.

When reached by The Associated Press, Sellers Shy, CBS’ lead golf producer, applauded Thomas for reaching out to players about more outreach. Jim Nantz, a lead announcer entering his 40th year with CBS, suggested the speaking tour could be extended.

“We want their personality to shine,” Nantz told the AP.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.


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