Fifty-plus years ago, the memorable telephone-service slogan, “It’s the next best thing to being there” was born. With the global pandemic of 2020-21, video call platforms, including Cisco Webex, became the new, next best thing to being there. As sheltering in place, social distancing and the like became the norm, the newfangled video calls replaced in-person contact for both work and play. Demand for the technology (and its seemingly limitless capabilities) is increasing, even as positive infection rates for COVID-19 in the U.S. are slowing down.
Connecting golfers in a virtual setting is a no-brainer, really, and Cisco Webex has been at the forefront of the revolution. Leading up to the 2021 U.S. Women’s Open and U.S. Open, Cisco, the Official Technology Partner of the USGA, utilized Webex to create a cool virtual experience—LPGA Tour and PGA TOUR pros conducted free virtual clinics with hundreds of junior golfers in San Francisco (host city for this year’s U.S. Women’s Open), Los Angeles and San Diego (host city for this year’s U.S. Open).
First, Nelly and Jessica Korda, the fourth and 12th-ranked players in the world, respectively, joined the clinic from home in Florida while Tisha Alyn was on-site running the clinics. The Cisco Webex Mobile Cart was set up on the driving range at TPC Harding Park, which enabled participants from The First Tee of San Francisco to interact with the Korda sisters. The two Cisco ambassadors shared some drills and tips, answered questions regarding life on Tour, and even gave swing advice to the attendees hitting shots on the range. “This is pretty cool. I’ve never done this,” said Jessica Korda. The encounter was even more impactful for the youngsters.
At The Olympic Club (site of the U.S. Women’s Open), LPGA standout and Cisco ambassador Danielle Kang took part in a virtual autograph session. While chatting with the kids, she signed hats that’ll be shipped to the youngsters’ homes. In addition, Amari Avery, the 17-year old amateur competing in this year’s U.S. Women’s Open, led a virtual session with players from the Ace Kids Golf program in Oakland. Avery, one might recall, is the prodigy who starred in the 2013 Netflix documentary, “The Short Game.” At each event, Cisco’s Webex technology was the behind-the-scenes star of the show.
Beyond the connectivity associated with industry-leading software applications, Cisco is a big supporter of another form of connectedness—that is, the importance of diversity and inclusion in golf. “We’re committed to providing dynamic and engaging ways to bring fans of all ages, abilities and backgrounds closer to the game both on and off the course,” said Christina Leong, Global Sports Sponsorship Manager, Cisco. “The clinics in the lead-up to both the women’s and men’s championships are incredible opportunities for kids to meet their heroes via Cisco Webex, inspiring them to continue growing the game we all love.”
To that end, PGA TOUR pros will host virtual clinics with junior golfers in Los Angeles and San Diego the week before the U.S. Open at Torrey Pines Golf Course. Max Homa is scheduled to attend the Los Angeles event. An announcement is coming soon regarding the PGA TOUR celeb in San Diego. Once again, Webex technology (the most secure virtual conferencing platform on the market) will bring the youngsters up close and personal with Tour stars.
It really is the next best thing to being there.