The Florida Economic Development Council (FEDC) recently honored Matt Rapp, executive director for THE PLAYERS Championship, for his contributions to economic development in Northeast Florida. Rapp was recognized as the region’s Economic Development Volunteer of the Year during an awards luncheon at the 2013 Florida Economic Development Conference in Orlando, Fla.

Rapp has led THE PLAYERS in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla., since 2010. During this time, he has focused on significantly enhancing the fan experience at THE PLAYERS while increasing the event’s charitable impact and reinvigorating its vital connection with the local community. Under his leadership, the event has seen dramatic increases in all areas, most notably in attendance and sponsorship/hospitality revenue.

In addition to the thousands of golf fans who attended the tournament, the telecast was delivered to 930 million households in 224 countries and territories around the world, and more than 350 local, national and international businesses invested in hospitality and sponsorship programs at the tournament.  All of these factors are vital tools for generating increased recognition and promotion of the region and attracting the interests of businesses and investors to Northeast Florida.

Proceeds from THE PLAYERS benefit Northeast Florida charities and have totaled more than $52.8 million since the event moved to Ponte Vedra Beach in 1977, including a record $6.5 million donation in 2012.  Charitable dollars generated from the 2013 event will be announced in the fall as part of Giving Back Month.

The Economic Development Volunteers of the Year Award is named in honor of Richard L. McLaughlin who firmly believed in the significance of volunteer contributions to the achievement of economic development goals for the state. McLaughlin was the second president of Florida Economic Development Council in 1965. In honor of his contributions, one outstanding volunteer is recognized annually in each of the eight FEDC Regions.

More information about THE PLAYERS is available at PGATOUR.COM/theplayers.