Over the last few weeks, parents across the United States bought notebooks, backpacks, calculators and new clothes to ensure their kids have everything they need for the new school year. Elite college golf programs did the same thing, except instead of getting three-ring binders and pencils, they bought outrageously-cool golf bags, sneakers, shirts and other things to outfit their golf teams.
Colleges and brands want to outfit their golfers in the best gear for a few reasons. First, just like the best college football teams use special uniforms and helmets as recruiting tools to attract the best high school players to their programs, high-ranking junior golfers notice which college programs get the best “drip” and “fits.”
Second, with college golf getting more time on television, outfitting high-ranking programs with the best apparel, footwear and golf bags is a way for brands to be associated with winning golfers and to get exposure. It’s also a way for companies to develop relationships with golfers who might one day be stars on the PGA or LPGA Tours.
Check out some of the cool gear that was handed out over the last few weeks.