IMG Academies (IMGA), a division of global sports and entertainment company IMG, announced that Callaway Golf (NYSE: ELY) is now the official sponsor and exclusive provider of golf clubs, balls and apparel for its David Leadbetter Golf Academy program.
IMG Academies is the world’s largest, most successful multi-sport, training and education academy. Callaway Golf, an industry leader known for developing innovative equipment, holds relationships with several of the world’s best golfers, including Ernie Els, Annika Sorenstam, Stuart Appleby and Rocco Mediate. This new partnership with IMG Academies cultivates Callaway’s relationship with the next generation of gifted golfers.
“We are excited to have Callaway Golf, a leading brand that has been at the forefront in advancing the technology of golf equipment, join our endeavors to train our young golfers,” said Sam Zussman, Senior VP of IMG and Managing Director of IMG Academies.
IMGA delivers a world class sports training and education experience within an atmosphere that is fun, healthy, active and inspiring. Its amenities menu is unlike anything in the world today. Former attendees of the David Leadbetter Golf Academy program include several accomplished professionals, including Paula Creamer, Casey Wittenberg and Sean O’Hair.
“Callaway Golf is pleased to enter this new partnership with IMG Academies and broaden our relationship with David Leadbetter,” said George Fellows, President and CEO, Callaway Golf. “This partnership underscores our commitment to junior golf and growing the sport here in the U.S. and abroad.”
Located on a 300-acre campus in Bradenton, FL, IMG Academies annually attracts approximately 12,000 junior, collegiate, adult and professional athletes of all ages and ability levels, from over 80 countries. Its golf facilities include a 30-acre double ended driving range/training center and a 7,000 yard, par 72, championship level private golf course.
“I have personally been with Callaway Golf for 12 years,” said David Leadbetter. “During this time, Callaway’s commitment to provide the highest quality and most technologically advanced equipment has never wavered. Callaway’s equipment makes training the game of golf enjoyable for the lifestyle player and those aspiring to be a professional. They’re the perfect fit for the DLGA at IMGA.”
