by Joe Wilhelm Jr.
Staff Writer
The fan experience is at the top of the list for improvements at this year’s The Players and one of the improvements actually lets fans take home a piece of the experience.
“We want people to come and stay a while,” said Chuck Ged, a volunteer from Queens Harbour. “We want to build a crowd here at ‘The Bluff’ to cheer on the golfers as they finish.”
Ged was helping people find a seat in one of the 200 blue, folding chairs that are being donated by the PGA each day of tournament play.
Though the plan may be to keep people at the hole, if they want to leave they can claim their seat by writing their name on it. The first 200 fans can enjoy the comfy chair and wait staff that serves food and beverage to the guests in the area.
The seats are set on grass that was occupied by bleachers last year, but the PGA wanted to open up the end of the 18th hole to give a better view of the clubhouse. Unlike the bleachers, the seats can go home with the fans each day.
“At the end of the day, they can take them home,” said Ged.
The 2011 Tournament Chair, Duval County Clerk of Court Jim Fuller, received some positive responses to the improvements as he toured the grounds while overseeing about 2,000 volunteers.
“More places to cool off, more televisions ... people are really enjoying the changes,” said Fuller.
Matt Rapp, executive director of The Players, made the fan experience one of his priorities.
“Our main focus for 2011 has been on creating an enhanced experience for our patrons,” said Rapp. “We have lowered ticket prices substantially, almost doubled the number of high-end restroom facilities and created several new venues where fans can go to cool off, enjoy some refreshments and recharge.”
A round up of the new features includes:
The Terrace
On the clubhouse side lawn, The Terrace is an exterior fan zone open to the public featuring a cash bar, tables and umbrellas. The Terrace is one of only two locations (along with the JELD-WEN Stadium Village) — outside of private hospitality venues — where fans can purchase mixed drinks.
Four Points
South of the clubhouse and west of No. 18 green adjacent to the practice area pond, Four Points is an exterior fan zone open to the public providing seating and food and beverages for purchase. It provides spectators with a public, outdoor hospitality-type gathering area.
The Grove
An outdoor, shaded area, open to the public located behind No. 17 tee, The Grove features tables, umbrellas and is located next to The Food Court.
The Patio
Located southeast of JELD-WEN Stadium Village, close to No. 10 tee and the hospitality area at No. 18 green, The Patio is a shaded area with tables, food and beverages for purchase.
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