The first and only nationally networked, database-driven USGA
handicap service, designed to enhance the enjoyment and participation of
the game for all golfers, has been unveiled by GOLF Intelligence, Inc.,
a provider of customer-focused technology solutions to the golf
industry. The company's National GOLF Network (NGN) system is
poised for national roll-out following a successful test launch in 2004
after four years of development and testing.
The NGN features a standardized USGA Handicap Service(R) with
value-added "Golf Life Management(TM)" services, including
score posting, game analysis, course information and tee times,
tournament and league management with online registration, instruction
and online tools that enable golfers to interact with their clubs and
fellow members. The system was developed by GOLF Intelligence in
collaboration with golf associations, golf course owners and operators,
amateur tours and leagues, clubs, and golfers of all types.
"We are prepared to provide the NGN system and services to
every club in America," said John Montague, founder and CEO of GOLF
Intelligence. "Our vision is to help grow the game and business of
golf by serving the fast-growing population of nomadic, public golfers
in addition to players at traditional clubs, both private and public
golf courses."
The NGN system was tested in 2004 by more than 800 clubs and 35,000
golfers to ensure its national scalability and provide feedback to
improve its functionality. This test group included clubs without real
estate, such as health clubs and retailers. More than 250,000 scores
were posted to the USGA Handicap Service(R) via NGN in 2004.
"The system makes it easy for golf courses to operate clubs as
valuable loyalty programs and revenue sources," said Curt Walker,
executive director, Midwest Golf Course Owners Association. "The
NGN helps drive business to the courses through partnerships with local
clubs without real estate. We are very excited about anything that helps
fill tee sheets."
Organizations that have selected the NGN include: Golf Galaxy, Pro
Golf of America, Nevada Bob's, Austad's, Life Time Fitness,
The Golf Channel, ESPN, Clear Channel, Michelob Ultra Golf Tour,
National Amateur Golf Tour, NHL Alumni Association, The Minnesota Wild,
sections of the PGA of America, chapters of the National Golf Course
Owners Association, Spirit of Golf Foundation/National Association of
Golf Coaches, and the Executive Women's Golf Association. In
addition, the company is partnering with prominent junior golf
associations and organizations to offer its NGN services at no charge to
every junior golfer in America.
"We needed a single system that could serve our entire
membership, so we looked at all USGA-authorized handicap service
providers," said Sara Hume, executive director of the Executive
Women's Golf Association. "This system was in a class by
itself and uniquely capable to meet the needs of our association,
chapters and (18,000) members."
Based in Minneapolis, GOLF Intelligence provides nationally
networked and standardized services to golfers through an alliance of
associations, organizations and clubs that are dedicated to grow the
game and business of golf.
For more information, visit http://www.golfintelligence.com or call
952/937-2869.
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