GolfPodium Offers One-Stop Shop
by Tabitha Northrop

Reprinted from Convention South Magazine
November 2001 Vol. 18 No. 4

Imagine your meeting attendees receiving golf advice from Gary Player, or getting topnotch treatment at the Masters Tournament in Augusta, Ga. These are just a few of the scenarios available to groups that utilize the services of GolfPodium's online speakers bureau or event planning service.

Launched in 2000, GolfPodium offers the first golf-specific speakers/talent bureau online. But it's more than just a speakers bureau. According to Eddie Smith, creator and president of GolfPodium, the website is a "one-stop shop for meeting planners".

A division of Infinity Sports Marketing, a full-service sports management group, GolfPodium was created when Smith realized he could utilize the relationships he formed with players, broadcasters and industry professionals while working in player relations and management for the PGA and then Golden Bear International. Smith decided to showcase these industry professionals on a website that would serve as a resource for planners seeking talent, event management, tee times and high-end golf packages. "Whatever a meeting planner needs, we can facilitate," he said.

There is no particular type of selection process for talent, Smith said. "We include individuals who have a story to tell: who have made a significant contribution to golf; who can share knowledge, experience or testimonials; or who is a motivational speaker. However, Smith added that the list of individuals listed as talent on GolfPodium do not limit their activities to speeches alone. "They can play golf with your group… any way at all to use their celebrity." Featured talent includes broadcasters, celebrity golfers, tour players, women executives in golf, instructors, golf writers, psychologists and people in golf ministries. Famous sports figures such as Chi Chi Rodriguez, Gary Player, Peter Kessler, Gary McCord, Don Shula, Ken Venturi, and Raymond Floyd are among the talent pool available to meeting planners.

According to Smith, a mix of charitable organizations; corporate groups, including Fortune 500 companies; associations; and independent planners have utilized the services of GolfPodium. In this business, I believe you have to set yourself apart…and I think while GolfPodium is still in its infancy, it has done well," he said.

He continued, "My business associates have seen the website as a neat concept. It is a great feeling when I see a lot of my competitors put the athletes they represent on GolfPodium."

Golf commentator Peter Kessler agreed, "GolfPodium is poised to be the number one resource for golf- or sports-related speakers, instructors and specialty event entertainment. It is the best place to be listed as talent and the best place for planners to find the solution to their talent needs."