PGA TOUR University Welcomes Huntington Bank as New Partner
PGA TOUR University has officially announced that Huntington National Bank will take on the role of an official sponsor. This new partnership is a significant step in enhancing the bank's presence in sports marketing while also demonstrating its dedication to collegiate athletics. With sports at its core, Huntington Bank is revitalizing its connection to the game of golf through this alliance.
Supporting Talented Athletes
As a proud sponsor of PGA TOUR University, Huntington Bank aims to enhance its commitment to identifying and cultivating top collegiate golf talent. The program serves as a vital link, granting promising players access to PGA TOUR-affiliated tours. By partnering with PGA TOUR University, Huntington showcases its ongoing focus on fostering talent and facilitating long-term growth.
Brant Standridge, who leads consumer and regional banking at Huntington Bank, shared his insights on the partnership. "Our connection with PGA TOUR University mirrors our mission of investing in potential and supporting individuals at pivotal moments in their careers. These athletes embody qualities like discipline and resilience, and we are thrilled to support them as they evolve into professional players," said Standridge.
Engaging Media and Content Strategy
To maximize this partnership, Huntington Bank will implement a robust media and content strategy that focuses on showcasing emerging talent. This initiative will highlight captivating stories about the athletes’ preparation and ambitions while integrating the bank's branding across PGA TOUR University platforms. Weekly updates on player rankings will be shared, keeping fans informed about those striving to secure a top 25 finish in the PGA TOUR University Ranking.
Creating Lasting Impact
Vijay Konduru, Huntington Bank's chief marketing officer, articulated the transformative nature of the partnership, stating, "PGA TOUR University gives us credibility and a direct connection to fans while supporting golfers during a crucial stage of their development. We believe that true progress occurs when potential meets essential support; this initiative encapsulates that belief beautifully."
Malcolm Holland, who played a critical role in developing the bank's golf strategy, emphasized the importance of beginning investment in golf early on. "Our journey into supporting golf stemmed from the belief that nurturing individuals from the start makes a lasting difference," Holland noted. This aligns flawlessly with what PGA TOUR University stands for—supporting young athletes at the most significant moments in their careers.
A History of Success
Since its inception, PGA TOUR University has successfully paved the way for numerous players, with over 100 athletes gaining membership on PGA TOUR-affiliated tours since its launch. With alum collectively boasting 49 global professional victories, the program continues to be a springboard for many. Currently, 23 PGA TOUR University alumni are members of the PGA TOUR, while 33 others hold membership on the Korn Ferry Tour.
A System for Success
According to Alex Baldwin, who oversees PGA TOUR Pathways, the university's structured approach ensures that top college golfers seamlessly transition into the PGA TOUR ecosystem. "Our partnership with Huntington Bank allows us to further promote our mission and highlight the next generation of golf stars," Baldwin stated, underscoring how well Huntington's vision aligns with the goals of PGA TOUR University.
In collaboration with the World Amateur Golf Ranking, the program evaluates collegiate players based on their performance in the final two years of their college careers. The tournaments eligible for inclusion range from NCAA Division I team competitions to official PGA TOUR events and select DP World Tour events.
Rankings and Memberships
At the close of each collegiate season, the top player in the final PGA TOUR University Ranking is awarded PGA TOUR membership. Meanwhile, those ranked from 2nd to 10th achieve Korn Ferry Tour membership, and players finishing from 11th to 25th earn exempt membership on the PGA TOUR Americas. Furthermore, junior or senior players clinching the Division-II Jack Nicklaus Award will also receive their memberships on the PGA TOUR Americas.
About PGA TOUR University
Launched in 2020, PGA TOUR University has developed a reputation for identifying the top collegiate golf players and facilitating their entry into professional play. Alumni have accumulated 49 professional tournament wins, and as many as 23 alumni have been granted PGA TOUR cards for the upcoming season.
About Huntington Bank
Huntington Bancshares Incorporated operates as a regional bank holding company, boasting an impressive asset base of $279 billion. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, and founded in 1866, Huntington National Bank serves a diverse customer base, including consumers, small businesses, corporations, and municipalities, offering an extensive array of banking and wealth management solutions. With nearly 1,400 branches available across 21 states, Huntington continues to expand its influence and service capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the partnership between PGA TOUR University and Huntington Bank?
The partnership aims to support collegiate golf athletes by providing them access to PGA TOUR-affiliated tours and enhancing the bank’s engagement in sports marketing.
How does PGA TOUR University evaluate its players?
Players are evaluated based on their results from the last two years of their collegiate careers and performance in designated tournaments.
What benefits do players ranked in PGA TOUR University receive?
The top-ranked player gains PGA TOUR membership, while those ranked 2nd to 10th earn Korn Ferry Tour membership, and players ranked 11th to 25th receive PGA TOUR Americas membership.
Who is Brant Standridge?
Brant Standridge is the president of consumer and regional banking at Huntington Bank, emphasizing the bank's commitment to athlete development through the partnership.
What impact has PGA TOUR University had since its launch?
PGA TOUR University has already helped over 100 players gain membership on PGA TOUR-affiliated tours, showcasing the program's effectiveness in transitioning talent to the professional level.
