Annika to Advise LPGA Board of Directors

LPGA Names Evans as Acting Commissioner Following Bivens’ Resignation; LPGA Legend Annika Sorenstam appointed Advisor to the Board of Directors

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla., July 13, 2009 – Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Board of Directors Chairman Dawn Hudson announced today that Rear Admiral Marsha J. Evans, U.S. Navy (retired) and a member of the LPGA Board of Directors, will serve as the player association’s Acting Commissioner effective immediately.

The move follows the resignation of Commissioner Carolyn Bivens, also announced today. The association has embarked on a search for a full-time Commissioner and made several changes within the leadership structure of the organization, including the appointment of LPGA player legend Annika Sorenstam as Advisor to the LPGA Board of Directors.

“We’ll soon have in place a Commissioner to lead us into 2010 and beyond, but until then, it’s important that we immediately appoint an Acting Commissioner whom we know and trust,” Hudson said. “As a Board of players and independent directors, we wanted an Acting Commissioner with experience leading large organization, one who appreciates and listens to our player members and tournament owners, understands sponsors and their challenges and needs, and has a track record that commands respect. We’re pleased that Marty Evans will be our Acting Commissioner, as she fits all the criteria necessary during these challenging economic times for sports leagues.”

“We respect Carolyn’s decision to resign since she has led this organization professionally and passionately the past four years,” said LPGA Board of Directors President Michelle Ellis. “We appreciate the unwavering commitment that she provided the LPGA, and during her four years, Carolyn accomplished a great deal for the LPGA and its player members.”

During her tenure starting in 2005, Bivens acquired and integrated the Duramed FUTURES Tour, a burgeoning developmental Tour, into the LPGA; secured ownership of a Major, the LPGA Championship; upgraded the quality of the courses on which LPGA players compete; introduced the first drug-testing program in professional golf; secured a landmark five-year TV rights agreement with South Korea’s J Golf which includes a new tournament in southern California starting in 2010; and secured a ten-year partnership from 2010-2019 with the Golf Channel, creating a dependable viewing schedule for LPGA events.

“The LPGA is a special organization comprised of great players, teachers and fans with a rich history,” Bivens said. “I love the LPGA and have been proud to serve as its Commissioner for the last four years. I am also proud of what the LPGA has accomplished during my tenure. My job was to be a change agent, to help move the LPGA into the strongest possible position to ensure its future. Those changes were only possible because the members are dynamic women who provide great value to our sponsors and tournaments. We also have a talented and dedicated staff supported by an engaged board that worked closely together to make progress. “It is time to turn this organization over to someone who can build on the solid foundation we’ve established. I wish the LPGA and its members nothing but fairways and greens as it enters its 60th year.”

Evans has a distinguished background that includes a nearly 30-year career with the U.S. Navy, where she rose to the rank of Rear Admiral. She also has served in top leadership positions with the American Red Cross and Girl Scouts of the USA. She served on the LPGA Commissioner’s Advisory Council in 2007-2008, and began serving on the LPGA Board this year. “It is an honor to have been selected to serve in the role of Acting Commissioner pending the selection of the Association’s next Commissioner,” Evans said. “We look forward to making progress on completing negotiations for the 2010 schedule and build on the impressive work of Commissioner Bivens to execute the Association’s long-range strategic plan.”

The Executive Search Committee will be led by LPGA Board member Leslie Greis and joined by Board members Juli Inkster, Helen Alfredsson and Bill Morton. Their work will be supplemented by the full Board of Directors and renowned executive search firm Spencer Stuart. Hudson also announced several other changes within the LPGA. Sorenstam, one of the LPGA’s legendary players who retired last year and has embarked on her own business ventures, will serve as Advisor to the Board of Directors, assisting the association with on-going discussions with tournaments and sponsors.

“Obviously, I will do everything possible to ensure that the LPGA remains the pre-eminent women’s sports association in the world,” Sorenstam said. “I’m committed to getting up to speed quickly on the challenges facing the Board right now, and will assist the LPGA in a number of ways both immediately and long-term.”

Zayra Calderon, the LPGA’s Senior Vice President of Worldwide Sales and CEO of the Duramed FUTURES Tour, has been promoted to Executive Vice President, Tournament Development & Worldwide Sales. She now will assume responsibility for all tournament business affairs, working closely with tournament owners and title sponsors to secure renewals and new tournaments and sponsors for the LPGA. She will retain her responsibilities with the Duramed FUTURES Tour.

Additionally, Bill Susetka, who recently retired from the LPGA as its full-time Chief Marketing Officer, has been nominated to fill Evans’ position on the Board of Directors. “The LPGA Tour has a bright future thanks to its appealing fan- and sponsor-friendly players, world-class sporting events, and stability as a women’s organization that was founded 59 years ago,” Hudson said. “The community and charity outreach of the LPGA players and tournaments remains imbedded in the organization’s DNA, and the LPGA boasts impressive domestic and global strength due to its membership make-up and media reach. We anticipate great things for the LPGA in the months and years ahead.”

Comments

[B. K.]

Annika,
I have read several articles over the last week about the difficulties on the LPGA regarding Carolyn Bivens. In nearly every one, you were mentioned as "the face of the LPGA", or the LPGA's greatest player or the Tour's Superstar and so forth. It is very clear that you have been missed by ALL. Now you will add instant credibility to an organization that is in need and help right the ship. There is perhaps no one in the game more respected than you and there is no doubt you will help the LPGA through this difficult time. Congratulations on your appointment and we wish you and the Tour all the best.
BK

[Eileen]

Congratulations, Annika. I hope the Board will realize what a gem they have with you as an advisor and tap into, not only your intimate knowledge of the workings of the tour, but your business acumen as well. Congratulations on yet another chapter in your post-golf career. I'm beginning to think you're busier now than when you were playing competitively. Hope all is well and you're enjoying the summer cottage (and have water by now!!)

[Buzz]

I wish you the very best in this new endeavor.Your amazing ability to focus, and solve problems on the golf course will, undoubtedly, serve you well in doing the same off the course.
I can't think of a better person to advise a Board on golf matters. If I were a tournament director I cannot think of anyone I would rather have walk thru my door to help solve a problem.

Take care...............(Hi Mike)

[Sue Densmore]

When I heard of the issues the LPGA was having, I thought immediately you would be tapped to bring your talents to bear. Your track record of team building with your own sponsors, and building your own brand, will undoubtedly be of great benefit to the LPGA. Congratulations on the new post, and best wishes for great success.

[Jill B]

Congrats Annika!

I know you will be a great help - offering guidance to the LPGA.

But get that work in now - once the baby girl arrives life will completely change - it's magical.

Water yet?

[Golf54deciple]

Annika,
so now we know about one of the conference call u made last week.

Thank you 4 doing something that will help the matters concerning the LPGA.

Great that u r use to LEADING by example... Prepared 2 offer the best u have gotten through the years by living large.

Is Tom from Texas trying 2 b cute or am I over-sensitive?

[Karen Ross]

The LPGA could not have a better advisor in these difficult times... but so much for your "time off" :) You are now going to be probably busier than ever!!
Enjoy this new phase in your "off-course" endeavours!

Golf54Deciple: if you are being over-sensitive, then so am I...a "report" button should probably be added in this blog so that "below-the-line" posts can be dealt with swiftly...I am sure the administrator will take care of "it" though...

[Golf54deciple]

Yes Karen we call on Greg the Webmaster...

Meanwhile why would anyone who is jeolouse & envious of Mike & Annika bother to post? Only more & more blessings will come the mcGees way and our resolve is strengthen even more!!

[Annika the Cat]

Golf 54,

I don't find Tom from Texas cute. I'm sure Greg the Webmaster will work some magic.

Go Annika!!!!

AtC

[Cindy]

Yay! I'm so glad you're going to be involved in smoothing things over between the LPGA and the sponsors and tournament directors! Hopefully you'll be able to convince some the sponsors who have defected to come back! It so good to read some GOOD NEWS about the tour!

[Mike McGee]

Thanks for the heads up and concern gang. Our webmaster will soon be taking away Thomas from Texas.

[Webmaster Greg]

Hi Everyone...

I've worked my magic and Thomas from Texas shall no longer darken our door

[Anna Lesemann]

Congrats Annika!

[Kathleen]

Annika,
I won't lie. I did miss you at the Open. You have been such an incredibly positive force on the LPGA Tour and your absence was exacerbated this week by the turmoil within the ranks of the Tour. I feel like these women are fighting for their lives and livelihood and for you, with your multiples of skill around the golf course and in the boardroom to offer your unique talents to the LPGA at such a crucial time is a selfless thing to do and I applaud you for it.

So it is terrific to hear that you will aid and abet the cause of the LPGA. There is no one more qualified. Your sponsor affiliations and your business acumen will be a valuable asset and I am sure all of those involved in the LPGA organization are thrilled. As a fan I certainly am.

Stay well and thank you for your continued interest in the Tour and the game we all love.

[Golf54deciple]

Greg!
I always said you are an Officer & a Gentleman

[Golf54deciple]

As I read the Bio of "The Admiral", seems to me Marsha Evans is a VERY incredible person. What a resume of "serving" people.

Even in a "temporary" status she has to be bringing a cool mountain breeze to the LPGA right now.

Go Christina Kim in your involvement on the board as well

[Ken]

I know at this point in your life with all that is going on in your life its not something youd probably want to pursue, but I think youd make a great commissioner at some point. Your business savvy, your intelligent, you have repoir with the players, you deal with sponsors all the time. You obviously know golf and your name alone attracts golf fans. I think it would fit perfect.

[Golf54deciple]

Like it or not, Ken may be right on. Afterall, he did say "at some point" and you wouldn't have to do it forever...

So little Miss is kicking up a storm eh? But is she punching too? How active were you at the same stage of development? Time to talk to your Mom and see!!

[P clark]

Hello, Annika-
I think it is very good that you are going to be advising the LPGA. Do you think there is any chance that great, older tournaments like the one in Corning, NY, for example, may be restored? It was sad to watch that final tournament at that site, with all of the devoted fans, and to learn that it would come to and end.
I hope that you are feeling well. Remember to get plenty of rest!
Pat Clark

[John Fischer]

Annika,

It's great to hear that even with the baby coming you're willing to help the LPGA get back on its feet.

One of the first things I hope that the board does is get back to the Kapalua folks and work out the arrangement that they wanted, i.e. cancel this year, but guarantee next year and beyond. Then they need to find a sponsor for the Turtle Bay event. Hawaii has to remain on the schedule.

Good luck with your new responsibilities and be sure to keep healthy for that little girl. Don't wear yourself out.

[Cath M]

Commissioner and Mam Sorenstam
Great ones you will make
As for crazy kicks, a potential fix:
No more dips in a freezing lake! :)

[Annika]

Thanks everybody for your positive comments. I am happy to help. I care deeply about the tour and the growth of the game. I think this was handled very quickly and professionally.

[icare]

Where will the 2013 Solheim Cup be played? More importantly, which player sponsor(s)/company(s)/course was not awarded it? Which player and player's husband are associated with the company(s)/course that was not awarded the tournament? What was that company's motivation in the first place to retain a player's husband as an employee? How much was the player's husband compensated to be an advisor? What repercussions occurred/might occur if that player's sponsor/company/course didn't get the event? Can the player get the decision reversed?

Which current player was sponsored last year by a company tournament sponsor that is now defuct? That same player is now sponsored by another company that is also a tournament sponsor and has just pulled out. What pressure would you expect the company/tournament sponsor/player sponsor to put on this golfer to influence any potential suits against the company? Can the player get the decision reversed?


You may or may not be interested in asking the questions on this stuff.

[EricUSGAVolunteer]

Dear Annika,
Congrats on yet another post-golf endevor. I would think that PGA Professional Donald Ross would be proud of you today for what you have given to the LPGA. I would love however for the Ochard's in South Hadley, Massachusetts to get the U.S. Women's Open again. I remember working with you at that open you came in second place with your heals up against Meg Mallen one of your still friends today. I would also love to see Newport, Rhode Island get the tournament again the US Women's Open. They got a pretty good draw there where you won. Plus being on the beach was even better because it was July a top tourist vacation hot spot. Lastly, I'll be looking for you next weekend in the crowd at the Celebrity Tournament. It's near your summer cottage, and its on NBC.
God speed Annika.

[Mike McGee]

icare, we are not really sure about anything you are referencing with regards to the 2013 Solheim Cup....the player or the husband. Sorry we can be of no assistance.

I do know that no player would have any say over where a Solheim Cup would be played, and any course would have the right to hire anyone....even a player's husband....to try and bring a Solheim Cup to their course.

Sponsors come and go at no fault to the players who represent them....it is simply part of the business in any sport. The game of golf has been that way for many generations.

Thanks.

[31Putz (Julie)]

I have to admit I have only watched the LPGA majors and a bit of the Jaime Farr (being in Ohio) this year. Some of it is due to Annika not playing, but most of it is due to not knowing when it's on, timing of the telecasts, coverage of the telecasts, and many of the tournaments now going 'overseas'. Bring the game back to the fans and 'they will come'. Best of luck Annika, I'm sure you will put the same dedication and details in your preparation for this challenge as you did when you were playing. The LPGA needs you very much! Take care of yourself along the way! Hi Mike ~ Go BUCKS!

[Leslie]

Annika,
I think it's awesome that you are going to do this. I agree that it seems as though the LPGA was needing a new direction, and I feel confident that with you and the others on the board that things will be turned around.

Lol...maybe the little one thought the lake was freezing too! My neice turns 1 today(the 16th). She's in that just learned how to walk, sometimes crawling age, except she doesn't crawl right. She scoots on her leg haha. I think it's bc she was always wearing a dress when she was learning to crawl and her leg always got hung in the dress. Lol she looks like a monkey when she does it. Took the bottle away and god forbid we even think about trying the sassy...whew that will be a bad bad day...

[Jeanette Jones]

Annika, Congratulations on your appointment as Advisor to the Board of Directors of the LPGA. It seems to me that your advisor position will quickly restore credibility to an organization that has recently suffered tremendous losses in sponsored tour events. The confidence that you bring to the table will once again return the LPGA to a place where respect is a value. As you said since you have time on your hands, your expertise and experience will be just what the LPGA needs to move forward.
Hope all of the McGees are having fun back in Orlando. Look forward to your posting of your Lemon Chicken recipe that Mike enjoys. All good wishes.