Shifting Focus: Why PGA Professionals Deserve Your Attention During This Week's Championship

Let's step back from the drama surrounding men's pro golf. This week's PGA Championship reminds us that the vast majority of professional golfers, often overshadowed, deserve our spotlight.

The Professional Golfers' Association of America (PGA) – the organization behind countless courses you frequent – fosters the game at its core. Their members manage public and private courses, run tournaments, teach everyday people, and yes, sometimes even fold shirts. While a select few compete at the highest level (including some in this week's Major), all contribute to this storied organization.

Perhaps now, more than ever, the PGA of America desires a clear distinction from the PGA TOUR. The ongoing feud between the TOUR and LIV Golf has poisoned the sport for fans and players alike, devolving into public spats on social media as viewership dwindles. In stark contrast, PGA members tirelessly work to expand and manage the game's growth. They cultivate new generations of golfers while cherishing the established ones.

Before tuning into the action at Valhalla, take a moment to explore the PGA of America's website. Discover initiatives far more critical than millionaire battles for billionaire status.

Programs like PGA REACH and PGA WORKS offer life-changing scholarships to diverse, motivated students pursuing PGA Membership through accredited university programs. These scholarships empower future leaders in the golf industry. Explore their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts too. The PGA strives to welcome everyone to the game, workforce, and supply chain through education, government outreach, workforce development, procurement practices, and community engagement.

Finally, visit the Make Golf Your Thing website. Here, you'll see the PGA's genuine commitment to expanding accessibility and attracting new players across the nation. This, in essence, is how golf truly grows, not through self-serving pronouncements from touring professionals consumed by internal conflicts.

Additional Benefits of Supporting the PGA of America:

• Enhanced Local Golf Experience: By supporting your local PGA professional, you're directly contributing to the health of your course's pro shop. This translates into a wider selection of equipment, apparel, and expert advice readily available to you. Additionally, PGA professionals often host clinics and events, fostering a vibrant golfing community around your course.

• Stronger Junior Golf Programs: The PGA is a driving force behind initiatives like First Tee, which introduces youngsters to the game in a fun and inclusive environment. Your support strengthens these programs, ensuring future generations have the opportunity to discover the joys of golf.

• Preserving the Traditions of Golf: The PGA of America acts as a steward of the game's rich history and traditions. Supporting them helps ensure these traditions are passed down and celebrated for years to come.

Let's not forget why we love golf, even amidst the constant headlines and online debates bombarding us. Supporting your local PGA professional by grabbing a dozen balls or a hat from their shop is a small way to show appreciation for a business and profession that keeps the heart of the sport beating. Introducing a youngster to the game – the purest way to pay it forward – is something any PGA member would be happy to help with. Don't let those unused clubs gather dust – donate them to a First Tee event, often organized by your local pro.

By supporting the PGA of America, you're not just backing an organization, you're investing in the future of the sport we all love. From cultivating new generations of golfers to preserving the game's heritage, the PGA's dedication ensures golf remains welcoming and accessible for all. So, this week, as you follow the PGA Championship, remember the PGA professionals who are the true backbone of the game. Consider how you can support them – on the course, through their initiatives, or simply by introducing someone new to the sport.

The stars of golf’s pro tours will get the camera time this week against a backdrop supported by thousands of hardworking PGA members and volunteers behind the scenes. Remember to pull back that curtain now and in the future to shine light on the other side of pro golf. You’ll love what you find.

Fantasy Golf Picks: 2013 Deutsche Bank Championship

The second round of the 2013 FedExCup Playoffs is this week as the top 100 players will tee-off at the Deutsche Bank Championship in Boston. The main story for the week will be how points-leader Tiger Woods will play following his back injury last week at The Barclays. Woods still holds a slight lead over Adam Scott, but he is in danger of being dethroned should Scott produce another strong performance.

Rory McIlroy is the defending champion this week, so keep an eye on him to build off his strong performance at the PGA Championship.

Here are this week's fantasy golf picks for the 2013 Deutsche Bank Championship.

Tiger Wins 2013 Bridgestone, Fifth Tournament This Year

Leading by seven shots on Sunday, Tiger Woods simply needed to tread water during his final round of the 2013 WGC Bridgestone Invitational to bring home his fifth victory of the season. After shooting an even-par 70, Woods accomplished his goal. Woods' victory last weekend marked No. 79 of his PGA Tour career and eighth at Firestone CC. After shooting an astounding 61 during Friday's second round, Woods remained well ahead of the tournament field and never looked back.

''As blustery as it was, it was going to be really hard for someone to shoot 62 or 63,'' Woods told reporters following his round. ''If I didn't give any shots away and played my game and shot even par or better, I'd force these guys to go and shoot something super low on a golf course that wasn't going to give it up under these conditions.''

Despite all of Tiger's accomplishments this season, many golf fans remain critical of the current state of his game, particularly his lack of a major championship win in 2013. There is a certain level of "disappointment" felt by his naysayers with each passing year of Tiger's major drought.

Those fans would be wrong, of course.

As Yahoo Sports' Brian Murphy so eloquently states in a recent article, Tiger has basically spoiled us all due to his own greatness.

What Tiger Woods has done in 2013 is nothing short of remarkable, staggering and, perhaps put best: Tiger-esque. By winning percentage of starts-to-wins, no player in golf history wins with the frequency of Tiger Woods. Not even close. He's won 27 percent of starts. Jack won 12 percent of his starts. So that essentially answers any questions about his place in history, right?

Apparently not, given some of the shoulder shrugs of some fans this weekend.

Will Tiger Woods surpass Jack Nicklaus and Sam Snead on the career achievements list? Only time will tell, of course, but it would appear anything less would be a major letdown for most fans.

Fantasy Golf Picks: 2013 WGC - Bridgestone Invitational

Tiger Woods is the heavy favorite (again) heading into Firestone, a course that he has dominated throughout his career. While he is coming off a disappointing final round at the British Open, Woods did show he is in top form for this week. There are a ton of strong players to choose from this week, including most of the Top 10 players in the world. Phil Mickelson returns to action after becoming the newest major champion of 2013, and reigning Masters Champ Adam Scott returns to a course on which he has won one already.

Here are my fantasy golf picks for the 2013 WGC- Bridgestone Invitational at Firestone CC.

Fantasy Golf Picks: 2013 The Memorial Tournament

Jack Nicklaus runs a golf tournament every year, and Tiger Woods likes to win it. The World No. 1 is this week's defending champion, and don't be surprised for him to successfully defend his title. The Memorial is always a fun tournament to watch as it is one of the last tune-ups before the U.S. Open. I have no doubt this week will be memorable in one way or another, especially considering the strength of the field. Here are my fantasy golf picks for the 2013 Memorial Tournament. (Psst; Tiger's going to win again)

Fantasy Golf Picks: 2013 The Players Championship

Some may call it the "fifth major", but I call it "watch a bunch of good players hit balls into the water", otherwise known as the 2013 Players Championship. This tournament is traditionally one of the most fun to watch thanks to the infamous 17th hole at TPC Sawgrass. Matt Kuchar is your defending champion, however the likes of Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, Adam Scott and a slew of other top-ranked players will be in attendance. Here are my fantasy golf picks for the 2013 Players Championship.

Fantasy Golf Picks: 2012 The Barclays

The FedEx Cup Playoffs begin this week at The Barclays, which is being held at Bethpage Black in upstate New York. The post-season will bring out all the top names in golf, so you will have a plethora of fantasy golf options this week. Tiger Woods is still the leader on the FedEx Cup points list, but now everything is up for grabs as the 2012 season is near its end. Here are my fantasy golf picks for the 2012 The Barclays.

Fantasy Golf Picks: 2012 WGC Bridgestone Invitational

The PGA Tour returns to Firestone Country Club in Akron, OH for the 2012 WGC Bridgestone Invitational this week. All the big names will be back in action, including Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, Ernie Els, and Adam Scott. Last week's winner Scott Piercy is also scheduled to play and hopes to go back-to-back with consecutive tournament victories. Here are my fantasy golf picks for the 2012 WGC Bridgestone Invitational.

Fantasy Golf Picks: 2012 RBC Canadian Open

Fresh off an interesting major tournament at the British Open, the PGA Tour returns to our friendly neighbors up north for the 2012 RBC Canadian Open at Hamilton Golf and Country Club in Ancaster, Canada. Ernie Els is slated to also return to action fresh off his major victory last week, along with names like Brandt Snedeker, Matt Kuchar and Vijay Singh. Can The Big Easy record his second consecutive win in two weeks? Here are my fantasy golf picks for the 2012 RBC Canadian Open.

Fantasy Golf Picks: 2012 Open Championship

The 2012 Open Championship (or British Open, as we know it here in the States) is ready to tee-off this week at historic Royal Lytham & St. Annes Golf Club in England. Defending champion Darren Clarke is ready to defend his crown at the season's third major championship, however a familiar face in Tiger Woods is once again the odds-favorite to capture his 15th major title. Last week's winner Zach Johnson is also ready to continue his hotstreak, along with top names like Rory McIlroy, Phil Mickelson, and others. These are my fantasy golf picks for the 2012 Open Championship.

Fantasy Golf Picks: 2012 Travelers Championship

The PGA Tour is fresh off its second major of the year, and Open champ Webb Simpson returns to action this week at the Travelers Championship. Defending champion Fredrick Jacobson also played well last week at Olympic Club, so expect him to be in contention again this week. Here are my fantasy golf picks for the 2012 Travelers Championship.

Fantasy Golf Picks: 2012 FedEx St. Jude's Classic

Defending champion Harrison Frazar returns to the TPC Southwind in Memphis, TN for the 2012 FedEx St. Jude Classic at this week's Tour stop. Other big names of note taking advantage of the final tournament before the US Open include Rory McIlory, Graeme McDowell, Dustin Johnson and a few others. Will Rory finally make another cut before having to defend his US Open crown? Here are my fantasy golf picks for the 2012 FedEx St. Jude's Classic.

Fantasy Golf Picks: 2012 Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial

The PGA TOUR makes another stop this week at the 2012 Crowne Plaza Invitational at the beautiful Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, TX. Defending champion David Toms will be in attendance, along with last year's runner-up Charlie Wi. Big names like Jason Dufner, Rickie Fowler, and Matt Kuchar headline the field, all of whom are playing great golf currently. Here are my fantasy golf picks for the 2012 Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial.

Fantasy Golf Picks: 2012 HP Byron Nelson Championship

The PGA TOUR returns to the Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas for the HP Byron Nelson Championship this week, and defending champion Keegan Bradley looks to be playing rather well so far in 2012. Last year's runner-up Ryan Palmer is also back in action, however I highly doubt he will be of any concern to the rest of the field. Here are my fantasy golf picks for the event.

Seve's Son Makes Tour Debut Next Season

It's in the genes. According to a recent article in the New York Times, Seve Ballestero's son Javier is preparing to play in next season's Majorca Open on the European Tour, although as an amateur. The event is set to take place next May and was originally reported in a Marca newspaper.

The 21 year-old Ballesteros has been receiving quite a bit of buzz lately for his golf game and its unmistakable resembleance to his father's. According to OWGR #1 Luke Donald - who had the pleasure of playing with the young man recently in the Madrid Masters - the resemblance is uncanny.

"I was very impressed with Javier, he is so like his father. I guess the genes have been passed down." Donald told reporters two weeks ago.

Javier has been working with a new golf teacher since the passing of his father.

"My father was always my coach," said Javier. "Now this is not possible any more Angel Matallana from Pedrena is helping me with my swing at Club Santander."

The one-handicapper has also expressed his wishes to eventually turn pro after completing his law degree studies.

Fantasy Golf Picks: Tour Championship by Coca-Cola

First of all, can I just say that the name of this tournament is ridiculous? "...by Coca-Cola"? Come on.

Anyway, the PGA TOUR season comes to an end this week in Atlanta as the FedEx Cup will be awarded to one of 30 players at the Tour Championship. Atlanta Athletic Club is a tough track historically, so I wouldn't expect low numbers like we saw at Cog Hill last week at the BMW. Webb Simpson is your FedEx leader going in, however names like Dustin Johnson, Justin Rose, and many others are within striking distance to capture the Cup. Oh, and the winner of the Cup gets $10 million, which is nice. Here are my fantasy golf picks for the Tour Championship by Coca-Cola.

A List

Starter: Dustin Johnson; Bench: Matt Kuchar

DJ started the Playoffs with a victory then promptly fell off the face of the planet in his next three tournaments. What gives, Dustin? And here I thought he would be a sure pick to win the whole she-bang. Granted, he could still win the Cup with a strong showing here, however only if he can get his short game in order. Matt Kuchar has played well at this course in the past, so he may be a good fantasy reserve this week. By the way: Kuchar almost became the latest contestant in "Let's Make a Mockery of the FedEx Cup". Read more of that debacle here.

B List

Starters: Justin Rose, Webb Simpson; Bench: Hunter Mahan, Bill Haas

Last week's winner is a no-brainer for Atlanta. Just Rose played unbelievable golf at the BMW Championship, and even held off a terrible back-nine on Sunday to still capture the title. Webb Simpson is also riding out a hot streak as of late and is your FedEx Cup leader going in to the Tour Championship. Other names like Mahan and Haas are still within striking distance of winning the Cup, however they will need to actually win the tournament to do so. I think. How do these point systems work again?  Who cares.

C List

Starter: Adam Scott; Bench: Jason Day

Did I ever tell you guys the time when I took a leak next to Adam Scott at the BMW Championship? I haven't? Well, I just did. Besides that, Scott will need a strong showing this week to cap off a successful 2011 season and potentially $10 million. Jason Day is simply a pick for fantasy golf points this week for me, assuming that Scott goes to the crapper. Ha! See? Everything went full circle there.

Fantasy Golf Picks: Deutsche Bank Championship

The FedEx Cup Playoffs continue for the PGA TOUR this week as those remaining make their way to the Deutsche Bank Championship from the TPC Boston. Luckily Hurricane Irene didn't wreak as much havoc as previously thought in the Boston area (although many streets remain flooded), so golf will go on as scheduled! Here are my fantasy golf picks for this week's tournament.

A List

Starter: Phil Mickelson; Bench: Dustin Johnson

Can we just hand the FedEx Cup trophy over to Dustin Johnson now, or do we actually have to play this thing out? We do?  Alright, fine. I'm still keeping DJ on my bench for this week (not like it matters) and will give Lefty the start on a course he has faired relatively well on in his career. Mickelson has had a strong 2011 season from a fantasy golf perspective (avg. 38+ points), so let's hope he can finish strong in these last few weeks.

B List

Starters: Steve Stricker, Rickie Fowler; Bench: Charl Schwartzel, Webb Simpson

Stricker and Fowler have both played well in 2011, the former being my pick for Player of the Year honors this season. Charl Schwartzel continues his consistently-strong play, and Webb Simpson picked up his first PGA TOUR victory a couple weeks ago. All four men are in the top ranks in terms of fantasy golf points, so here's looking forward to another strong showing by everyone.

C List

Starter: Gary Woodland; Bench: Adam Scott

Gary Woodland continues to play well in the second-half of the 2011 season, averaging over 34 fantasy points per tournament after a slow start in the beginning of the year. Adam Scott, of course, continues his strong play with new caddy, a longer putter, and a win under his belt. While I still think Dustin Johnson will ultimately win the FedEx Cup, one of these two players could also catch him with a strong showing this week.

Fantasy Golf Picks: Wyndham Championship

The PGA TOUR makes its way to beautiful Greensboro, North Carolina this week as the Wyndham Championship at Sedgefield Country Club rolls into town. Only five tournaments remain on most fantasy golf seasons, so this week's picks could mean a great deal for fantasy players "in the money". From the TOUR's perspective, multiple golfers will be looknig to earn their way into the FedEx Cup Playoffs by a strong showing this week. Read on for my fantasy golf picks for the Wyndham Championship.

A List

Starter: Lucas Glover; Bench: Ernie Els

Glover has played at Sedgefield three times in his career and has never finished outside the Top 25. Furthermore, the field of competitors this week is relatively weak in comparison to other events, and Glover is certainly one of the better golfers. Els is more-or-less a sentimental pick for my reserve this week and will likely not receive much playing time. However, he has also played well at this course in the past, so anything can happen.

B List

Starters: David Toms, Ben Crane; Bench: Webb Simpson, Davis Love III

Toms played very well last week at the PGA Championship, plus he has a win on TOUR this season (and probably should have 2 wins total). He has also played very well at the Wyndham in the past, so look for him to have another strong week. Ben Crane is playing rather poorly this season (7 missed cuts in 17 events) but does have a Top 10 finish. He and others will be looking to sneak into the Playoffs with a strong showing this week. Webb Simpson, on the other hand, is having a heck of a year with six Top-10's and two Top-3's. Davis Love III also has two Top-10's in 2011 and played strong golf last week.

C List

Starter: Jason Dufner; Bench: Arjun Atwal

Dufner obviously played exceedingly well last week at the PGA, finishing second to eventual winner Keegan Bradley in a playoff. He is this week's "no brainer" and shoudl have another solid showing. Defending champion Atwal is a strong pick for a back-up despite playing relatively weak in 2011.

Fantasy Golf Picks: PGA Championship

"Glory's Last Shot" takes place this week in the form of the PGA Championship at the beautiful Atlanta Athletic Club in Georgia. Defending champion Martin Kaymer will be on hand along with the best players in the world for 2011's final major championship. Players that are hot going in to this week: Adam Scott, Rickie Fowler, Luke Donald, and Jason Day.

A List

Starter: Luke Donald; Bench: K.J. Choi

Donald had an impressive tournament last week at the Bridgestone Invitational (T-2nd) and is the leading money winner for both the PGA and European Tours. A strong finish this week will likely secure the World #1 ranking for Donald as the season nears its end. K.J. Choi continues to be impressive in majors this season, including a tie for 8th at this season's Masters in April. Choi also has a victory under his belt - the Players Championship - which many believe to be the fifth major on the PGA TOUR schedule.

B List

Starters: Steve Stricker, Rickie Fowler; Bench: Ben Crane, Charl Schwartzel

There are two potentially dominant American players right now: Steve Stricker and Rickie Fowler. Stricker has two wins this season, and Fowler is playing incredibly well (including a T-2nd last week along with Donald). From a fantasy golf perspective, Charl Schwartzel is having a strong season averaging over 40 points a week. Ben Crane is a wildcard this week for me, however I feel he is due for a strong finish in a major.

C List

Starter: Adam Scott; Bench: Simon Dyson

Let's get this out of the way first: I promised myself I would pick an unknown player for the final major; thus, we have Simon Dyson as my reserve. With that being said, Adam Scott is playing incredible golf right now, including a win last week at Firestone. While his caddie seems to be getting more attention than needed, Scott appears to be at the top of his game and will look to capture his first major this week in Atlanta.

Fantasy Golf Picks: WGC Bridgestone Invitational

As the PGA TOUR season is nearing its end, some of the best players in the world are taking their talents to Akron, Ohio for the ever-popular Bridgestone Invitational at Firestone Country Club. Defending champion Hunter Mahan returns to the field this week, along with a certain "you-know-who" in NIKE gear and a hideous goatee.

A List

Starter: Phil Mickelson; Bench: Dustin Johnson

Nope.  Not gonna be that guy. I refuse to take Tiger Woods as my starter this week despite his impressive record at Firestone in the past (seven victories). Instead, I'm going with Phil Mickelson, who has played strong golf throughout the 2011 season. In 14 events he has only missed one cut, averages over 40 fantasy points, and has another win on his resume. Likewise, Dustin Johnson has averaged 34 points a week and has five top-10's this season. Tiger hasn't done squat.

B List

Starters: Hunter Mahan, Steve Stricker; Bench: Bill Haas, Rickie Fowler

Don't be surprised if the eventual winner comes out of this group, folks. While defending champion Mahan hasn't played all that well this year, Steve Stricker, Bill Haas, and Rickie Fowler certainly have. All four men average over 31 fantasy golf points a week and Stricker has two victories under his belt so far. Haas and Hunter have also recorded two runner-up finishes in 2011, while Fowler continues to make a name for himself on TOUR.

C List

Starter: Rory McIlory; Bench: Sergio Garcia

Rory didn't quite live up to expectations at the British Open, so look for him to come back with a vengence this week in Akron. Both men average over 36 fantasy golf points per tournament, and McIlory is making his case to be the best player on the planet before too long. Garcia continues his own little "hot-streak" as of late, recording three top-10's in 2011 and missing only one cut in 11 tournaments.