by David Chapman
Staff Writer
Northeast Florida will be ready for one of its annual close ups in just a few weeks when The Players returns to TPC Sawgrass, bringing a sold out crowd and even more national exposure to the region.
Broadcast in 209 countries, 500 million households and in 35 languages along with no major competition from other sporting events, this year’s tournament looks to continue the tradition and passion known by both fans and golfers, said 2009 Players Chair Tommy Douglas while speaking at Monday’s Meninak meeting.
“We’ll be center stage all over the world,” said Douglas. “Jacksonville will be receiving a lot of exposure.”
Over the course of the Thursday-Sunday tournament there will be 22 hours of television coverage with 56 minutes per hour of coverage — the only other tournament with such a deal is The Masters — and an estimated local economic impact of more than $150 million, said Douglas, citing a University of Florida study.
One of the things Douglas said he was most proud of being associated with for the tournament was something many of the close to 100 attending Meninak members could identify with: the charitable aspect.
“I really love being involved,” said Douglas, while noting that the 2008 tournament raised $3 million for 94 different area charities. “The real winner of all of this are the charities.”
Douglas talked about his desire to see last year’s $3 million mark eclipsed and taking it “a step further.”
The tournament volunteers — more than 2,000 people and 45 different committees — took heed and created the “Mission Impact” initiative that will donate $40,000 worth of support for one local organization. This year’s “Mission Impact” recipient as voted on by the volunteers will be daniel, the oldest child-serving organization in Florida with roots in Jacksonville.
Hank Haynes, a former chair for The Players and Meninak member, introduced Douglas to during the event and agreed with Douglas’ sentiments.
“I’ve been involved with the tournament for 41 years now,” said Haynes, “and I am proud of the way everyone has stepped up.”
Douglas also discussed the honoring of former president George H.W. Bush after the May 6 practice round. The course will be closed at 5 p.m. and there will be numerous military and PGA Tour officials on hand as well as an F-16 fly over.
“It’s going to be quite a scene,” said Douglas.
356-2466