The recently completed PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando always brings talk about the heath and state of the game of golf.

With 41,000 enthusiastic attendees in Orlando January 20-23, 2015 for the annual kickoff of the golf season, it’s hard to believe golf if hurting, but studies say participation is down and Steve Mona, CEO of World Golf Foundation always talks to me and sets the record straight.

“The golf industry is stable and healthy. Although participation in the game does not match its all-time high from 2005 (pre-recession), many industry segments are experiencing much success. Adult and junior growth-of-the-game programs are more unified and have seen significant growth in the past few years. The First Tee has more than 180 chapters and 900 golf locations and is also available in close to 7,000 elementary schools. Get Golf Ready has more than 4,500 certified facilities and reached close to 100,000 participants last year. PGA Junior League Golf has experienced 490 percent growth and had 18,000 participants last year.”

Mona says golf needs to adapt and evolve like other sports have to remain top-of-mind with the sports public.

via Steve Mona, CEO of World Golf Foundation on golf’s outlook for 2015 – National Fitness & Exercise | Examiner.com.