THE MISTWOOD GOLF DOME located on Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook is now open until 10 PM daily. Come see what all the excitement is about when you try out Toptracer, hit balls play Pebble Beach, get fitted for clubs, trade in the old clubs and get credit towards new ones, have some great food and beverages in the remodeled McWethy’s Sportsbar, and get ready for the derby in the OTB. Mistwoodgolfdome.com #allyeargolf   _____________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy or Linkedin and Facebook. With Kicker-Golfer Robbie Gould.

HE’s BACK ! Well no, not in a Bears uniform anyway, but Chicago area resident and NFL Kicker Robbie Gould is back in town when the NFL is not in season, and his company EVENTLify is helping get your golf outing off the ground and making the impact you want to have.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to put on a golf outing, whether your raising money for charity or other causes. Are you just having an outing for fun, or having a corporate outing for employees and clients.

If your looking for a way to maximize your outing, in terms of fun, and the money it raises, it’s time for you to speak with EVENTLify (Event-lif-fie).

Eventlify with kicker and golfer Robbie Gould.

So why is Gould who still kicks in the NFL involved with a company like EVENTLify.

Gould’s official title is CMO-Chief Marketing Officer and yes he is involved hands on with the company. He is not just a celebrity figure-head using his name for a paycheck.

Gould is an avid golfer and carries a low single-digit handicap at his home club the Medinah Country Club.

If you have run a golf outing, it’s an event that needs a team of workers to pull it together, whether it’s people in the office, or volunteers, there is more than enough to do. If it all seems a bit overwhelming, that’s where EVENTLify comes in.

If your running a charity outing, and looking to raise funds, the question arises, how do we raise the most money possible, how can we reach more people. What about the people who support what we’re doing and they don’t play golf, how about golfers who suddenly can’t attend the attend the outing because of another conflict, how do you get those people involved. Should your outing have it’s own website, how do you get golfers registered, are you putting together tee gifts, how do you get them to come back and play again next year, Eventlify can help answer all those questions and drive your outing right through the uprights.

Click here to hear our interview with Robbie Gould, and learn how EVENTLify can make your golf outing one for everyone to remember.

If your trying to get the most out of your golf outing, and raise the level of the amount of dollars you bring in, and take the strain off your team of people putting the outing together, visit Chicago based Eventlify.com or call (800)-961-6554.

THE SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB has it’s simulators open for year round golf. You can play TPC Sawgrass home of this weeks Players Championship, island green 17, some pro’s splash, do you have that shot-find out. Schaumburggolfclub.com (847)-885-0000.  _____________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, Linkedin and Facebook. At Bandon Dunes.

THE WARM UP IS COMING…I’m so ready and so are many other people, especially golfers. Upper 40’s on Tuesday, 50’s on Wednesday, and 60’s on Thursday, then a drop off. But maybe most of the remaining snow piles can melt off, wouldn’t that be wonderful.

It will still be a few weeks before our courses thaw-out, and they can open for the season. But with a a few more warm days, maybe by around the first of April, most of them can open for the season. No joke…

New wedges, Callaway Mack Daddy 4’s, with a good stamping.

I have talked all winter long about putting some new clubs in your bag. I started the process of flipping the bag, when my new Callaway Mack-Daddy 4’s arrived.

It’s a great feeling to come and find the big box next to your door, instead of just bills in the mailbox. I’ll go hit them this week in the Mistwood Golf Dome, and see if I get some spin. It’s been awful the last few years to repeatedly waste scoring opportunities by having bad wedges, THAT is about to change in 2019. Time to lower the handicap back into single digits.

If you haven’t already done so, get fitted. Even if you don’t buy clubs right away get your numbers dialed in, so when the time comes, you’ll know what buy. If your waiting for the right sale, be ready when it comes along. I know it’s tough these day to buy a full set of clubs all at once, it gets pricey. But analyze what part of your game is hurting the most, and replace those clubs. No distance off the tee, get some new top grade golf balls and a new driver, and see what happens. Can’t get out of bunkers or the rough around the green, new wedges. Not making putts, try a new putter. Lessons are ALWAYS a great idea, but it never hurts to put the best club you can in your hands. Or at least take the wrong clubs out of your hands, by taking them out of your bag. Do start the year with a few dozen new balls that didn’t sit in the garage all winter long.

Outside of clubs, new comfortable golf shoes, a new golf bag, a new towel, a new shirt, slacks, shorts or a hat, add to you looking sharp on the course and at the 19th hole, or the short game area. Where to get fitted, there are plenty of places now in the area, the Mistwood Golf Dome is a great place and Top 100 location in America per Golf Digest. Custom fitting locations such as Club Champion, True Spec, and the PGA Tour Stores are among the other good locations. Watch for demo days in the area, they are great options as well.

I hope you have enjoyed our run of stories from our trip to the PGA Merchandise Show, and down to and back from Orlando. I do expect to finish up the content over the course of this week.

IN THE WEEK AHEAD…my interview with former Chicago Bears Kicker Robbie Gould, on his company EventLIFY, if your running an outing and want to maximize it’s potential check in with EventLIFY.

I WILL ANNOUNCE THE DETAILS of the return of Golfers on Golf Radio that starts this month, yes a new start date, stay clicked or dialed in.

A CONGRATULATIONS to our IPGA Section award winners for 2018, they will be awarded tonight in a special awards ceremony. Special Kudo’s to IPGA Section professional of the year, Chris Gumbach of River Forest Country Club in Elmhurst.

FINALLY…I was disappointed to hear that longtime friend and golf architect Keith Foster got sentenced to 30 days in a federal prison, for illegally importing certain protected animal items into the country. His golf business was never under suspicion from the government, but the charges and guilty plea have cost him work at several of the nations top clubs which is sad to hear. Some of the clubs that cut ties with him, would not be on the map if Foster’s renovation work had not brought them back into the eye of the golf world, and helped them get Top 100 ratings, top level professional and amateur championships and increases in memberships. I’ll have more on this topic in the days ahead.

The Gog Blog returns with Robbie Gould and a story on his golf company tomorrow, stay tuned. RS

THE SIMULATOR BAYS AT THE SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB do include this coming weeks TPC Sawgrass home of the Players Championship. How would you fare on the famed par 3, Island Green 17th hole. You can find out while teeing it up this week at the Schaumburg Golf 401 Roselle Road. Schaumburggolf.com or (847)-885-9000. #TPC     ___________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory @GogBlogGuy on Twitter, Linkedin or Facebook. In the Mistwood Golf Dome #Flash

SOME FINAL NOTES on clubs and merchandise coming from the PGA Merchandise Show and since then by a few name companies.

NEW XXIO Woods and Irons

Now available as of this past March 1st, XXIO Prime Woods, Hyrbrids and Irons, for distance and accuracy for golfers with a slower swing speed.

“XXIO Prime is , quite frankly, the most unique and beneficial product ever available to moderate swing speed players,” Chuck Thiry, Vice President of XXIO USA. “People might think it’s marketing hype, but they simply haven’t hit Prime yet.”

The new XXIO Prime Woods has a newly designed hosel structure that makes it easier for moderate swing speed players to shut the drivers face at impact, that will result in longer and straighter drives. The new XXIO’s are lighter, that makes them faster and easier to swing. It’s lightweight power for players who need it says Thiry. The new XXIO Irons have an expanded Titanium face, with a CNC milled Speed grove, that provides increased ball speed and a straighter ball flight.

Now available prices range from (MAP) $259 for a single graphite iron, $379 for Prime Hybrids, $579 for Prime fairway woods, and $849 for the new Prime Driver, details can be found at XXIO and Cleveland Golf website’s.

The New Srixon Z-Star series golf balls, built for distance.

The new Srixon Z-Star XV and Z-Star and now available since February.

The Z-Star XV distance golf ball is used by PGA Tour driving distance leader Cameron Champ, who says” the ball gives me a chance to compete week-in and week-out, with it’s exceptional ball speed.”

The Z-Star XV is the sixth generation model of the Z-Star series, and now comes equipped with a FastLayer Core, a core that starts soft in the center and gets firmer around the edge. This design adds speed for distance, and feels softer at impact. The addition of Spin Skin with SeRM is a coating that helps sit deeper in wedge and iron grooves for better spins and stopping ability. The new 338 dimple pattern allows for less resistance and more lift to increase distance. the MAP is $39.99 a dozen. More information at Srixon.com

MIZUNO for the first time has introduced two new tour-caliber golf balls, the RB Tour Ball and the RB Tour X. Mizuno has taken it’s Shaft Optimizer to a new level to help put golfers into irons that are right for them. The key is a new Gyro that adds to existing strain gauges, that can recommend lie angles from a digital standpoint instead of old methods like using tape and strike boards.

The new golf balls both have high greenside spin, and are a 4-piece ball with 360 dimples and Urethane covers, with a soft compression. More information see Mizunousa.com.

The latest in the Titleist Players 4 Stand Bag line

The new Titleist Players Stand Bag and Hybrid Collection golf bags are now available starting at $200, with customization available on all bags.

The Players 4 StaDry is 14% lighter than it’s predecessor, and includes 25% increase in strap padding for extra comfort while carrying, and has increased storage options.

Options include the Players 4 Plus, the Players 4, the Hyrbid 14 stand bag meets cart bag- starting at $240, The Hybrid 5 called a smooth ride and is designed for a cart-friendly ride. More details at Titleist.com/golf-gear/golf-bags

Titleist adds the 718 AP3 and AP2 irons in Black Finish

Now available as of March 1st, are the Titleist new 718 AP 3 and AP 2 Irons.

The iron sets are finished in a, High Polish Black PVD coating to create a standout appearance.

The True-Temper AMY Onyx shafts with a coal coat matte black finish helps reduce glare, and the clubs have all-black Golf Pride Tour Velvet 360 grip.

The addition of these models came from Titleist staff players on the PGA Tour, and they will wear similar to the Jet Black coating on SM7 wedges. Details at Titleist.com/golf-clubs/irons/718-ap-black.

The new Scotty Cameron Phantom-X putters, a line of nine.

The new Scotty Cameron Phantom X line of nine new putters will arrive in golf shops and retail stores on April 12th.

The Phantom X family is a group of nine new mallet putters that Scotty feels will take putting performance to a new level.

The Phantom X series will replace the Futura Family, but Scotty will continue to combine the 303 stainless steel, and the 6061 aircraft-grade aluminium for an increased MOI, optimal weight distribution and a better sound.

Scotty says that,” Phantom X is by far the most high tech putter line we’ve designed to date. This product is so much faster looking, and taken to the next level, that it needed a new name. It’s a major leap in performance. We’ve designed a variety of flange set up’s, alignment options and shaft bends to offer mallet players more models to choose from. I was inspired by tour players who wanted slightly smaller profiles with more alignment options and solid face construction.

The nine new models are: Phantom X5, Phantom X 5.5, Phantom X6, Phantom X 6STR, Phantom X7, Phantom X 7.5, Phantom X8, Phantom X8.5, Phantom X12, more information at Titleist.com or Scottycameron.com.

NOW AVAILABLE from Scotty Cameron is the new Select Fastback, that adds to the line of mid-mallet models of the Select Line. Which came from suggestions of top tour players. The two new models are the Select Fastback 2, and the Select fastback 1.5.

The feedback Scotty received from tour players had them asking for more prototype necks. With more moving towards smaller compact style heads, that are not blades and not mallets. So Scotty is calling them mid-mallets. The fastback 2 has a plumbing neck with the 1.5 coming with a mini-slant neck. The putters coming with mid-sized Black and Silver Matador grips. The double milled three-Cherry dots are smaller in size. MAP is suggested at $399. More at Scottycameron.com.

The Gog Blog Speaks Out-Returns on Monday. RS

THE MISTWOOD GOLF DOME is open today to help you get ready for the golf season ahead. Located at Rt. 53 in Bolingbrook and open until 10 PM daily the Mistwood Golf Dome home of Toptracer and McWethy’s Sportsbar is where golfers need to be. Visit Mistwoodgolfdome.com THE SCHAUMBURG GOLF CLUB on Roselle Road is now a year round golf facility, the simulators have numerous Top 100 courses and Ryder Cup venues waiting for you. Get ready for the outdoor season. Schaumburggolf.com #golf     _____________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation, Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, Linkedin and Facebook. On Pinehurst #2, home of the 2019 U.S. Amatuer Championship and 2024 U.S. Open, (R) Pine Needles home of the 2019 U.S. Senior Women’s Open coming in May. Pictured the par 3, 13th hole. #USOPENS

Registration is now open for the open’s run by the United States Golf Association (USGA), this includes the U.S. Open, the U.S Sr. Open, the U.S. Women’s Open, and the second playing of the U.S Sr. Women’s Open.

THE U.S. OPEN trophy sits perched along the bay at Pebble Beach, in advance of the 2019 U.S. Open in June.

“It total, the USGA received more than 13,000 entries for our Open Championships in 2018,” says John Bodenhamer, USGA senior managing director,championships. “We are committed to continuing to create an Open Championship experience that is exemplary for our players, volunteers, spectators and viewers, and are excited for the venues we’ll be bringing our four championships to this season. The openness of our championships is something we’re extremely proud of, and we look forward to seeing more dreams come true as our qualifying season begins.”

The U.S. Open Championship at Pebble Beach will be June 13-16, and is open to both professionals and amateurs with a handicap of 1.4 or less, and will be the sixth U.S. Open at Pebble Beach. In 2018 there was 9,049 entries. Deadline this year is 5 PM EST on April 24th.

The U.S. Women’s Open which will be played at the Country Club of Charleston from May 30th-June 2, is open to female golfers amateur or professional with a handicap not exceeding 2.4. This is the second USGA Championship held at CCC. Entries close at 5 PM EST on April 17th.

The U.S. Sr. Open will be played at the Warren Course in South Bend Ind from June 27-30, the championship is open to golfers amateur or professional with a handicap that does not exceed 3.4, and players who will be 50 years of age by the start of tournament play. Entries close at 5 PM EST on May 8th. Locally there will be a sectional qualifier on May 29th at Inverness Country Club.

The second annual U.S.Sr. Women’s Open will be held at Pine Needles Lodge and Golf Club in Southern Pines N.C. from May 16-19. It is open to female golfers who will be 50 years of age by the start of tournament play, and amateurs or professionals with a handicap not exceeding 7.4. Entries close at 5 PM EST on April 10th.

For more information, visit USGA.org.

KEITH FOSTER works on the renovation of the Baltimore Country Club-Five Farms.

BY: RORY SPEARS Golfers on Golf Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy.

One of golf’s top architects Keith Foster of Upperburg Virginia was sentenced earlier today in Federal Court in Virginia.

Foster will serve 30 days at a still unknown federal facility, his report date is still TBD, but is expected to begin shortly. Foster will also have 1-year of a supervised released.

Foster was charged with violations of the Lacey Act, which is transporting items made from animals on protected lists, and bringing them into the United States illegally.

Government law enforcement officials openly admitted in court they substantially overstated the offenses in public releases and statements, and that Foster’s store the Outpost donated much of it’s profits to various area charities, the judge told Foster he needed to be made an example of before handing down the sentence. Government officials did make clear that no part of Foster’s golf design business was ever under investigation or suspicion.

Foster is one of the leading golf architects in the world for restoring classic golf course designs. As recent as one year ago, Foster had 11 courses on a Top 100 Classic Course list by a national publication.

His work in the Chicago area includes, new construction at both Shepherd’s Crook in Zion, and for 9 of the 18 holes at the Highland’s of Elgin. His stellar restoration of Knollwood in Lake Forest helped the course return to it’s roots of almost 100 years ago Foster brought in the white-tour edge sand at Knollwood, and the look it brought to the golf course was so outstanding, many other golf courses in the area are now using it.

Foster had been hired by Olympia Fields in 2018 to begin master planning improvements for both the North and South golf courses, but was let go by the club’s board after his guilty plea with the U.S. Government was made public.

The Gog Blog Speaks Out will have more to say on this story in the regular Monday Column next week.

THE KOHLER GOLF CHALLENGE now on three weekends April 13-14, April 20-21, April 27-28 different weekends, different courses, Call (855)-510-7225 #Rydercup2020   _____________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, Linkedin and Facebook. At Reynolds on Lake Oconee’s National Golf Course.

Northwestern University senior Stephanie Lau has been selected to the 2019 United States Palmer Cup team.

Her selection was announced on The Golf Channel, with the other members of the team.

This years Palmer Cup, named for golf legend Arnold Palmer, will be contested at the Alotion Club in Arkansas, from June 7-9. The 2015 Palmer Cup was played in the Chicago area, at Jerry Rich’s Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar Grove. The Palmer Cup returns to Rich Harvest Farms in 2021.

“We are so excited for Stephanie that she has earned this remarkable honor of representing her country on an international stage,” Northwestern head women’s golf coach Emily Fletcher said. “Stephanie has proven she is one of the top amateurs in the world and we know she will represent our program with pride as a member of Team USA.”

Northwestern Wildcats

Lau becomes the first Northwestern University women’s golf student-athlete to represent her country at the team level in international competition.

The Palmer Cup a Ryder Cup style event for amateur golfers was formerly a just for men, but as of this year the teams have been expanded to 24 players to include women.

Lau is a three-time All-Big Ten honoree and was the 2016 Freshman of the Year in the Big Ten. Her stoke average of 72.12 was the second-lowest single-season mark in program history.

The first Palmer Cup was played at Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge in Orlando Florida, that is hosting this weeks Arnold Palmer Invitational on the PGA Tour. the Palmer Cup supports Arnie’s Army Charitable Foundation. Team USA leads in the all-time series winning the cup, 10-9-1.

The Schaumburg Golf Club on Roselle Road in Schaumburg already has it’s 2019 golf season underway. It’s still indoors downstairs in the simulator bays, but you can play one of several Top 100 courses, or Ryder Cup venues. Call (847)-885-9000 #teetime.     _____________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy and on Linkedin and Facebook. On the National Golf Course at Reynolds at Lake Oconee.

When you hear it’s all about the short game, the first swing you take before you “putt for dough” is quite often made with your wedges.

The Pitching Wedge, the Gap Wedge, the Sand Wedge or the Lob Wedge, often found in degree intervals of 48-52-56 or 60, with minor variations available to all of the above.

The new look in wedges started at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando 6 weeks back. What’s on the market now in wedges is more amazing than ever before. Even higher handicappers are getting their ball out of bunkers, out of the rough, off the tight-lie in the fairway, and getting shots to spin and stop on the green. Leaving that putt for dough a little shorter than it has been in recent summers.

New from Miura Golf K-Grind 2.0 wedge

Miura golf has just announced the release of it’s new K-Grind 2.0 wedge. The K-Grind follows a 1957 original K-Grind, but the new 2.0 features a knuckled sole, from milling techniques that look and feel.

While the Miura craftsman worked to maintain the integrity of the original design, they added the feature of the knuckles that adds playability through every type of turf.

The new face of the K-Grind 2.0 now comes with a fully milled club face that should increase spin from all varieties of shots.

Hand-forged in Himeji, Japan, using Miura’s time-honored 14 step manufacturing process, the wedge comes in five lofts from 52-60 degrees. You can also custom design your new K-Grind 2.0 wedge with one of 19 types of shafts, and 14 styles of grips.

The new wedge comes on the creation of the new CB-301 Mirua Line of Cavity Back Irons, Miura says the new CB-301 line is the longest distance Iron that Miura has created, and the first cavity back Iron since the PP9003 in 2011. For more information on Miura clubs please visit www.Miuragolf.com.

Titleist wedge designer Bob Vokey in his studio.

The Wizard of Wedges Bob Vokey did not let this years PGA Merchandise Show go by without adding to his line of wedges.

For 2019 Vokey had added to his of Titleist SM7 wedges, a new finish that has his wedges now available in a Slate Blue Finish.

The new finish give players an option to look down at the club and have no concerns about reflection or glare. These wedges are now available in shops or golf retail stores.

“Very often wedge finishes look great, but they don’t last,” Vokey said. ” At the same time the most durable finishes often aren’t stunning. Slate Blue combines the two and the finish will last.”

Click here to hear the interview with Titleist Director of Wedge Relations Aaron Dill talk about Titleist Vokey Wedges.

The Blue Slate wedges are available in all 23 loft, bounce and grind options, and in RH-LH options. Cost $199.00 MAP.

Callaway Wedge Designer Roger Cleveland with the Mack Daddy and PM Wedges.

Callaway Golf that has been on the move in all area’s over the last few years, has new wedges out for 2019 as well.

Maybe lost a little with all the press the outstanding new Flash Driver and fairway metals have received, are the new PM Wedges.

PM in case you didn’t pickup on it stands for “lefty” Phil Mickelson. To learn more see Callawaygolf.com or check our interview with Roger Cleveland below.

Click here to hear the interview with Roger Cleveland on the new Callaway wedges.

BEN HOGAN GOLF EQUIPMENT COMPANY has announced the addition of it’s line of Equalizer BLACK Wedges, that feature a Black Diamond Metal Finish. That is an addition to the line launched one-year ago, and the Black Metal is up to 7 times more durable than nickel chrome.

With golfers repeatedly asking for lofts other than 52-56-60, changes were made and the Equalizer line has expanded. Another thing that golfers will love is the price which starts at $105 for either steel or graphite. With new milled features on the face and grooves, the wedges have maximum spin and stopping ability.

The longtime feature of Hogan wedges has included V-Sole Technology, which has been enhanced with a new sole geometry to fit a wider range of golfers and course conditions. This addition comes with input from tour players and should improve shots from deep round and tight fairways.

All Hogan Black Equalizer wedges come in the following options, GAP 48-50-52 degrees. Sand Wedges in 54-56-58 degrees and Lob Wedges in 60-62 degrees. For more information or to purchase the wedges see BenHoganGolf.com.

   DON’T LET WINTER GET YOU DOWN. SPRING IS COMING and the Schaumburg Golf Club will have you ready for the change in seasons, when you get your game in shape on the simulators at the Schaumburg Golf Club 401 N. Roselle Road, just minutes from Woodfield Mall. Play Top 100 courses, Ryder Cup venues, and matches with your favorite foursome while the temps are still in the 20’s. Call the Schaumburg Golf Club today for your tee time at (847)-885-9000 or visit Schaumburggolf.com.#golf    ______________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy Linkedin and Facebook. With the Fairway Flash by Callaway, Barry Allen would love it, you will too. In the Mistwood Golf Dome in Bolingbrook.

Special note: Are you trying to raise money for charities through golf. If so, check out SMT Events and Fundraising that has helped raise over $13 million dollars for charity in the last 10 years.

Having an outing, www.smtevents.com or call (888)-693-4001.

STATE APPAREL-a San Francisco based company that is launching it’s first women’s golf apparel collection.

That’s made with a unique Wiping System, and the collection features fitted polo’s, outerwear and tailored pants in a variety of colors.

With the successful launch of it’s men’s collection, creating the women’s collection was the next step for the company, says the companies CEO Jason Yip. The modern classic Pixley Polo is just ($87). For more details on the full line from State Apparel, visit stateapparel.com or you can visit their urban clubhouse in Downtown San Francisco.

Troy Merritt in his new Galvin Green outerwear

Galvin Green a leading technical performance brand of golf clothing, has added to it’s line up of PGA Tour players who serve as brand ambassadors.

Two-time PGA Tour Champion Troy Merrit will be wearing a Galvin Green breathable lightweight line in 2019. For Merritt it’s the third year of wearing the brand.

Martin Laird who has won three times on the PGA Tour including the 2011 Arnold Palmer-Bay Hill Invitational.

Ben Silverman who competes on the PGA Tour and kept his card with a par-saving putt at the end of his rookie year, is part of Galvin Green.

American Theo Humphrey who plays on the PGA  Mackenzie Tour in Canada is another member of the Galvin Green ambassador team. Merritt feels the VENTIL8-PLUS shirt that keep him 10-15 degrees cooler than other players, keeps him from changing shirts on hit days during summer play. See Galvingreen.com for more details.

Callaway Swing Tech Apparel

Callaway Apparel has announced the release of SWING TECH, which is a more technological advanced apparel that allows for comfort with less restriction, that allows for a better range of motion on every swing.

The line of Swing Tech apparel now includes, Polo’s, Shorts, and other outerwear including pullovers. Swing Tech is now available at select retailers and certain country clubs around the world. See callawayapparel.com and follow SWINGTECH on social media channels.

     NEW BALANCE GOLF SHOES and IMPERIAL GOLF HATS now released for the 2019 U.S Open.

Follow Golfers on Golf for more on golf apparel as we reach the summer season.

 ANDY MICKELSON swings at Vibe Speed with the new Epic Flash Driver by Callaway Golf, in the Mistwood Golf Dome on Rt.53 in Bolingbrook, come check out the new Toptracer technology, Mistwoodgolfdome.com or call (630)-739-7600. Long time LPGA veteran and NIU alum Nicole Jeray is now part of the professional staff at Mistwood. Nicole is available for lessons (and is working with the junior program) #ladiesyourturn    ______________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, Linkedin and Facebook. A tip of the golf visor to the King, as Bay Hill week starts off in Orlando.

IT’S BAY HILL WEEK ON THE PGA TOUR which means it’s time to take a moment to remember the King, Arnold Palmer, who left us now 2 1/2 years ago.

Let’s hope for some good golf this week, and a great champion. Even though with Tigers Woods in the field, and NBC being the network this week, it’s likely we won’t hear much about many of the players we should be hearing about, or seeing all week long. (Update-Woods has just withdrawn due to a stiff neck).

This past week, was the Honda Classic that in recent years has finally been getting stronger fields. But with the new PGA Tour schedule this year, that has it’s pro’s and con’s, the Honda seems to have ended up on the short-end of the draw. Even with Brooks Koepka, defending champion Justin Thomas, and Rickie Fowler in the field, opinion was that the field was down and lacking. Top to bottom the Bay Hill field that had been missing for a few years, might be on the way back up. We will see.

Rules…Rules…Rules the debate is on and Justin Thomas and Rickie Fowler seem to be in the middle of it, whether it’s in the press tent, on the golf course or on social media. In my early morning round table today with BIG 3 partner Len Ziehm who covered the Honda Classic this past week, Ziehm wondered where are all the veterans chiming in on the rules changes of this year. Nothing against Thomas or Fowler for speaking up, but where are guys like Tiger, Phil, or the Davis Love III’s, Jim Furyk, Ryder Cup Captain Steve Stricker, or even some of the senior-strokers like Fred Couples, Tom Lehman’s and Bernhart Langer’s of the PGA Champions Tour.

THE USGA has called out Justin Thomas in return of him calling them out, that seemed to put out Thomas who acted like his feeling were hurt, hopefully both sides get together this week and have some positive give and take on the issues.

Hole-More-Putts the latest technology by Odyssey putters to help you get fit for the proper putter. The I-pad style device that you putt off of, sends data to a technician with an I-pad to determine what kind of putter will work for you.

PUTTER FITTING yes it’s the next wave in getting fitted for proper clubs. While many golfers have been fitted for drivers, woods and irons, for a long time putters were all about a feel thing. Did the putter have a god feel, did have a good look, did it have an alignment line, was it the right face for me, solid or with an insert. Where was the shaft, middle or on the heel, straight down or with a some sort of a mid-slant.

Odyssey/Callaway has created something for golfers to think about, and it’s called Hole-More-Putts, and it’s putter technology at it’s finest. While Hole-More-Putts is still an infant, and will likely be improved at some point, it brings putter fitting to a new level.

Callaway Sales Representative Paul Schlimm, has been voted salesperson of the year for 2018, by members of the Illinois PGA Section, he will be honored on March 11th.

I tried it, and put my fitter through his pace. Being his first day on the new level of the high-tech product, he finally called in Callaway Sales Rep Paul Schlimm for a second look at my numbers. Schlimm decided that even though I was sinking more than my fair share of 18-20 footers on the floors at the PGA Tour Superstore on Butterfield Road in Downers Grove, that something had to change with my putting stroke before placing my order for a new putter in 2019. It’s always best to get things right the first time. Hole-More-Putts won’t tell you what’s wrong with your stroke, but it can tell you that something needs to change before you spend $200-$400 on a new putter.

TEAM WILSON GOLF Alessandra Ladd and Ryan First were at the Downers Grove PGA Tour Store on Saturday, handing out 2-packs of the Wilson DUO golf ball.

During my trip to the PGA Show in January, I was playing several rounds of golf in 35-48 degree weather while in Pinehurst.

With several keep warm layers on me, I wasn’t hitting my best approach shots and didn’t have many short putts for birdie or par.

While I didn’t have almost any three putts, I certainly didn’t have many 1-putts, or almost any 1-putts unless I missed the green and chipped it close. Maybe part of the problem was the layers of clothing that knocked my putting alignment off-track. Once I get it back on line, then I will visit Hole-More-Putts again and then continue the process of flipping the bag into new equipment.

The simulators are open at the Schaumburg Golf Club, 401 N. Roselle Roadin Schaumburg, Book your simulator time at (847)-885-9000 Schaumburggolf.com

IT WAS GOOD TO SEE WILSON GOLF, TaylorMade, Mizuno, Cleveland Golf all out at PGA Tour Superstore working with golfers and helping them be fit for the new clubs of their choice.

BREAKING NEWS: Northbrook IL. based KemperSports management has just announced they are the new management firm for Thornberry Creek at Oneida in Green Bay Wisconsin, the home course of the Green Bay Packers.

ON THE RUMOR MILL…will TEAM USA 2020 Ryder Cup Captain Steve Stricker name his former U of I teammate and current U of I men’s golf coach Mike Small a Vice-Captain for Team USA, it could happen, do stay clicked in. The Gog Blog Returns on Tuesday. RS

REYNOLDS AT LAKE OCONEE in Greensboro Georgia, six golf courses, 4 marina’s a Ritz Carlton and more, it’s time to get Georgia on your mind. #jackisback Jack Nicklaus is back on property at Reynolds renovating his Great Waters course, it is scheduled to reopen late in 2019. Learn more by visiting Reynoldslakeoconee.com. #itsgolfseason     _____________________________________________________________________

THE GOG BLOG by RORY SPEARS, Director of Content and Creation. Follow Rory on Twitter @GogBlogGuy, Linkedin and Facebook. On the National Course at Reynolds on Lake Oconee GA.

Welcome to another Sunday morning of golf here at Golfers on Golf. It might be cold outside, but it’s nice indoors which means a great time for golf at both the Schaumburg Golf Club’s simulators where you can play several Top 100 golf courses, or recent or upcoming Ryder Cup venues. Learn More at Schaumburggolf.com or call the club at (847)-885-9000. OR…

The Mistwood Golf Dome in Bolingbrook on Rt. 53 where you can try out the new Toptracer technology, get fitted for new clubs at one of the Top 100 fitting places in America, enjoy the food and drinks in McWethy’s Sportsbar, pound your favorite pony in the domes OTB. (630)-739-7600.

WOULD YOU LIKE to be a caddie this summer, Cog Hill in Lemont is looking for caddies for the summer. Call the club at (866)-COG-HILL. Kids it’s a great summer job.

THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS fresh off a second place finish in Louisiana has headed to Las Vegas Nevada to for the start of the Southern Highlands Classic which begins this morning. The 25th ranked Illini are facing a full field of ranked or Top 50 teams and it should be a good test for Coach Mike Small’s team.

Part of the expanding product line at Zero Friction in Oakbrook Terrace.

Oakbrook Terrace based Zero Friction that is increasing their product line, has introduced a variety of new products at the recent PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando.

“We are excited to introduce our latest products in Orlando this year,” says John Iacono, founder and president of Zero Friction. “Our universal fit gloves achieved #2 in golf sales according to Golf Datatech, and we believe our new products will be just as successful.”

Zero Friction’s SuperTube line has expanded and now includes a Super Sleeve. With 7 matte finished distance balls in one clear tube, that be can be logo’d for tournaments and events. A new color matte finish blue is now available. the ZFT Maxx 4″ tee is now available for all the big hitters out there. The ZF6-way golf stand bag is great for walkers, short course players, junior or senior golfers. Golfers can also check-out the new Stryker Glove with a compression fit with an expansion flap for even a better fit. Just released at the show are the one-size work maintenance gloves great for course workers. For more details on Zero Friction Products see ZeroFriction.com or call (630)-317-7700.

CALLAWAY has announced that Cody Gribble, PGA Tour winner and national champion from the University of Texas has signed to be a brand ambassador for Callaway Apparel Tour Authentic collection. More on the line coming soon in a future story here.

THE BEN HOGAN Golf Equipment Company has signed Travis Fulton who is rated by one national golf publication as one of the best young instructors in Florida as a Brand Ambassador. For more information on the clothing line see Benhogangolf.com.

MIURA GOLF and Mexico’s Abraham Ancer have announced an agreement for Ancer to be playing Miura Products. Ancer an upcoming player on the PGA Tour has been tabbed by one publication to breakthrough in 2019 and win on the PGA Tour.

SWINGLOGIC EFX1 has created a new tee that helps with ball and shot alignment, for more details, see the video at DivotIsland.com/video. The product is endorsed by longtime golf instructor Jim (Doc) Suttie.

HERE IS A FAMILY OUTING FOR YOU..the first ever Kissimmee FL. Family Golf Classic will be played at the Reunion Resort on the Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson golf courses from June 20-23 of this year. The 54-hole, team scramble is open to any mix of family members. The entry fee is $799 per team. There  will also be a round played at the famed Celebration Golf Club designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and Sr. For more details on this 4-day/3-night inaugural event visit kissimmeefamilygolfclassic.com

IN LONGS SOUTH CAROLINA, there is great news that Aberdeen Country Club has reopened as of last week. It’s taken five months to restore the course from damage caused by hurricane Florence. The new 4,000 square foot clubhouse has been redone and there wasn’t a divot taken from the course for over five months. Aberdeen is a Scottish links style design course that is now complete with a new fleet of EZ-GO golf carts. For information at PlayAberdeen.com or book times at Myrtlebeachgolftrips.com or call (800)-882-3420.

Dustin Johnson at the Dustin Johnson Golf School located in TPC Myrtle Beach

Dustin Johnson continues to give back to the game with the opening of the Dustin Johnson Golf School at TPC Myrtle Beach in SC.

” I couldn’t be prouder of the golf school and it’s growth,” said Johnson. “Golf has given me so much, and hopefully the school can play a role in developing some of tomorrows golfers.”

The state-of-the-art facility is located in a 4,000 square foot building that is among the best in the Carolina’s. Some of the modern technology at the school includes, Trackman, Swing Catalyst, K-Vest 3d Motion Analysis, SAM Putt Lab, there is three indoor hitting bays and a 140 yard tee box. The building is now home to the Dustin Johnson Foundation that has donated more than $500,000 to local junior golf programs, and has helped offset the cost of instruction to over 70 kids. Annually there is a donation of over $20,000 in equipment. For details see dustinjohnsongolfschool.com

DUSTIN JOHNSON and HOOTIE and the BLOWFISH Inducted into the Myrtle Beach Golf Hall of Fame. Other inductee’s include Robert White and Kelly Tilghman.

BOYNE GOLF in Michigan has for over 30 years offered the “Great Escape Golf Package” it includes five nights and golf on seven Boyne Golf Courses. Pricing starts at $949 per person and runs for the 19 weeks of golf season in Northern Michigan from May 7th, through September 15th. Boyne.com/golf/great-escape-golf-vacation. Or call (844)-634-5315.

aboutGOLF has released aGLinks a platform for the modern golf in it’s simulators, and a new APP.

PITCHFIX has released the latest model of green repair tools, called Greenkeeper Pro, it’s long enough so you don’t have to bend over to fix a ball or spike mark. Check out Greenskeeper pro at Pitchfix.com Chicago area favorite, and tour pro Chip Beck was on hand at the recent PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando to serve as a spokesman.

MIZUNO has signed PGA Tour player Chris Kirk, and extended contracts of Luke Donald, Eddie Pepperell, Lucas Glover, Oliver Fisher.

LUKE DONALD has finally sold his Northfield IL. home for the reported price of $3.9 million dollars. The Gog Blog Returns tomorrow.