THE PLAYERS Championship returns to THE PLAYERS Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass, May 9-14. This internationally known tournament brings world-class golf to the region and an estimated economic impact of $151 million to Northeast Florida. In 2016, 213,000 people attended THE PLAYERS. That group consisted of fans, business executives and media from around the world.

Business leaders recently met at the JAX Chamber to discuss how the tournament can be used to work and grow business.

“We work closely with the City of Jacksonville and the JAX Chamber in joint efforts in promoting the tournament and showcasing Northeast Florida,” said Jared Rice, executive director of THE PLAYERS. “Overall, 400 local, national and international businesses utilize the tournament to entertain clients, build relationships and network. Our Showcase of Excellence and continued growth is made possible by the continued support of the Jacksonville community.”

THE PLAYERS provides a tremendous platform for companies to do business and entertain clients. THE PLAYERS partners with more than 350 local businesses, creates nearly 2,000 jobs during the tournament and invests millions back into the community.

Jacksonville University’s president and chair of the JAXUSA Partnership, Tim Cost, attended the press conference and discussed how THE PLAYERS is instrumental in their business growth and allows them to showcase Northeast Florida, and the university, to national clients, potential employees and donors.

“Where else can you host a meeting in such a fun, and beautiful setting, like the 17^th hole at TPC Sawgrass?” Jacksonville University President Cost said. “THE PLAYERS gives us a unique venue to bring in our clients from across the globe to both entertain and proudly showcase what our university, and community, has to offer.”

US Assure uses the tournament as a business development tool, COO Ryan Schwartz said. This year, US Assure will host national clients in THE PLAYERS Club, a hospitality package with exclusive venues located in the clubhouse, on the iconic 17^th tee and on 18 green.

“Our involvement, and use of THE PLAYERS, continues to grow each year,” Schwartz said. “The tournament has hosting opportunities for businesses of all sizes. If you have not already, I would highly suggest reaching out to staff of THE PLAYERS to figure out how they can help your company host clients at this amazing event.”

JAX Chamber Chair Darnell Smith thanked THE PLAYERS for its commitment to Northeast Florida and urged businesses of all sizes to take advantage of the tournament.

“During May 9-14, Northeast Florida is on an international stage thanks to THE PLAYERS Championship,” Smith said. “As a community, we must continue to take advantage of this spectacular tournament and venue to showcase how wonderful this city is and to help grow business here in Northeast Florida.” 

About THE PLAYERS Championship

THE PLAYERS Championship annually combines the best field in golf with the world-class venue that is THE PLAYERS Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass. Morgan Stanley, PwC and Optum are the exclusive Proud Partners of THE PLAYERS. Proceeds from THE PLAYERS benefit Northeast Florida charities and have totaled more than $84 million since the event moved to Ponte Vedra Beach in 1977, including a record $8.5 million generated in 2016. In April 2011, THE PLAYERS announced a new charitable focus, committing to generate $50 million for youth-related charities over 10 years. For more on THE PLAYERS and the surrounding area, visit THEPLAYERSChampionship.com or floridashistoriccoast.com.

About JAX Chamber

The JAX Chamber is the business membership organization dedicated to driving quality economic growth in Northeast Florida to make this region the best place to live, work and play. Membership provides the opportunity to connect with and buy from other Chamber members. The connections result in business growth and a more prosperous economy.