Click HERE for a follow up on yesterday’s blog. 

The attitude of LPGA spokespeople seems to be extremely apathetic considering all the backlash they’re receiving for their new policy and the way in which it was presented.  They could show some sensitivity instead of essentially telling everyone it’s between the association and their members.  Since when does it work to basically tell the media,  sports commentators, and community groups to back off because it’s an internal matter?  I’m sorry, but that’s whack. 

Have you heard about this LPGA debacle? They released a statement explaining their new policy on language requirements of their members. 

The statement reads in part: “It is imperative for the future success of the LPGA as well as the success of each LPGA player that our members effectively communicate in English at tournaments inside the United States with those who provide for the existence of the tournaments and the opportunities for professional women golfers to make a living doing what they love.”

So basically, the international players that make up nearly a quarter of the LPGA tour members must pass an English exam or they can’t participate in LPGA sanctioned events. Apparently much of this new policy stems from the LPGA’s concern about players being able to properly interact with media. No mater what the motivation, this could’ve gone down much better. Someone at the LPGA was ignoring what their PR person said because I can’t believe that this type of statement would get past any decent communications professional. If the association really wanted to improve communications why not provide resources to the players and make a statement about the LPGA’s goals to help unite the players and improve the language barrier? Get some good press for the association and the players. Don’t start punishing people who don’t speak perfect english, giving yourself an ethnocentric reputation.

Anyway, I’m getting to the point in the title.  I was excited to hear today that State Farm is at least one sponsor that’s taking this very seriously. The company, (who sponsors the league as well as the State Farm Classic) essentially told the LPGA if they don’t reconsider the policy than State Farm will have to reconsider their sponsorship role when their contract is up.  

It’s comforting to know that a company is taking responsibility for the connection their sponsorship creates. State Farm isn’t simply dumping money into an event for some exposure. They’re aware of the actions and the reputation of the association they’ve partnered with. The company is troubled by the new policy and isn’t shy about saying so.  I’d like to think all the companies engaged in corporate sponsorship would take such an interest in their relationships. 

Click HERE to read more about the policy announcement.

Click HERE to read more about State Farm’s reaction.