LIVE Q&A with Kraig Kann, Chief Communications Officer, LPGA Tuesday, January 17, 2pm ET!

[tbowles411]

[quote name='Kraig Kann' timestamp='1326828673' post='4100083']
[quote name='tbowles411' timestamp='1326744541' post='4094285']
[quote name='mizuno player' timestamp='1326503527' post='4080549']
Kraig we would love to have the lpga back in D.C.
[/quote]
THIS!!!!!

Also, when it comes to coverage of TGC, why is it that it seems that the ladies are considered "second class" when it comes to actually watching a tournament at a decent hour, and more than just a couple hours of it, when we do get to see it?
[/quote] no second class... I can tell you that for sure. GC loves the LPGA... but the PGA TOUR contract was completed first and there are restrictions. I will tell you that our ratings on Golf Channel were up 29 percent across the board last year and 38 percent for N American events. This year 100% of our N American telecasts on the weekends will be live. That feels first class to me
[/quote]
Finally!

[Kraig Kann]

[quote name='Outlier' timestamp='1326744357' post='4094269']
Hi Kraig- One more quick follow-up for perspective...how many folks on your staff are fluent in Korean or Japanese?

We would love to see the tour in Carolina...specifically Charlotte!!!
[/quote] We do have staff members fluent in Korean and Japanese... we have to One of our key tournament business affairs execs is from Korea... and delivers in a big way for our partners overseas. Obviously, he's not the only one... and we're looking to grow in this area as the tour schedule grows in that area as well. I'd like to see the tour in Charlotte too - but you will be able to see the Symetra Tour there in September at Raintree Country Club. The Road to the LPGA now runs through cities like Charlotte..... and the schedule will be released in the coming days.

[pga43]

Nice job with the spacing of tournaments on the schedule this year! Looks like the LPGA Staff realized that going up against the Majors on the men's tour can be a losing battle. Narrowing the time off between events is also key to staying out in front of the golfing public so as to keep their interest up. I'm really looking forward to covering more LPGA events for GolfWRX.com. The women players seem to be a bit more fan friendly across the board!

Keep it up.



Greg

[Kraig Kann]

[quote name='tbowles411' timestamp='1326829330' post='4100165']
[quote name='Kraig Kann' timestamp='1326828673' post='4100083']
[quote name='tbowles411' timestamp='1326744541' post='4094285']
[quote name='mizuno player' timestamp='1326503527' post='4080549']
Kraig we would love to have the lpga back in D.C.
[/quote]
THIS!!!!!

Also, when it comes to coverage of TGC, why is it that it seems that the ladies are considered "second class" when it comes to actually watching a tournament at a decent hour, and more than just a couple hours of it, when we do get to see it?
[/quote] no second class... I can tell you that for sure. GC loves the LPGA... but the PGA TOUR contract was completed first and there are restrictions. I will tell you that our ratings on Golf Channel were up 29 percent across the board last year and 38 percent for N American events. This year 100% of our N American telecasts on the weekends will be live. That feels first class to me
[/quote]
Finally!
[/quote] Hey... don't you think I've got an interest in keeping everything smooth for Golf Channel viewers?

[Kraig Kann]

[quote name='pga43' timestamp='1326829367' post='4100171']
Nice job with the spacing of tournaments on the schedule this year! Looks like the LPGA Staff realized that going up against the Majors on the men's tour can be a losing battle. Narrowing the time off between events is also key to staying out in front of the golfing public so as to keep their interest up. I'm really looking forward to covering more LPGA events for GolfWRX.com. The women players seem to be a bit more fan friendly across the board!

Keep it up.



Greg
[/quote] Going up against the men's majors is not a race that's easy to win... and logistics make for interesting scheduling conflicts. We're ironing things out like a finely pressed shirt. Mike Whan's goal is to eliminate the 3 week gaps.... he loves a 2-on, or 3-on with a break in between. But Rome wasn't built in a day... and the perfect schedule won't come in a week either. We'll get there - I'm super confident of that. As for fan friendly.... I think our players are the best ambassadors of their league - period. I tell them that and shout that message to everyone... the key in communications is to have a platform that's big enough for more people to share in the success and that's what I'm trying to grow.

[Swooshdaddy]

[quote name='Kraig Kann' timestamp='1326828673' post='4100083']
[quote name='tbowles411' timestamp='1326744541' post='4094285']
[quote name='mizuno player' timestamp='1326503527' post='4080549']
Kraig we would love to have the lpga back in D.C.
[/quote]
THIS!!!!!

Also, when it comes to coverage of TGC, why is it that it seems that the ladies are considered "second class" when it comes to actually watching a tournament at a decent hour, and more than just a couple hours of it, when we do get to see it?
[/quote] no second class... I can tell you that for sure. GC loves the LPGA... but the PGA TOUR contract was completed first and there are restrictions. I will tell you that our ratings on Golf Channel were up 29 percent across the board last year and 38 percent for N American events. This year 100% of our N American telecasts on the weekends will be live. That feels first class to me
[/quote]


Will GC change the way Thu/Fri telecasts are presented? On the PGA coverage, they follow marquee pairings and show alot of tee shots, but the LPGA broadcast is full of chips and putts. Makes it tough to watch 2+ hours of short game, especially since it follows PGA coverage.

[Mizgoodie]

Will the Lpga be the first world pro circuit ?... playing a full season around the world I like the idea. What would happen to the Let? , and would the majors have to be redone to incorporate the world?

[cwglum]

Kraig -

Has there ever been talks of adding an LPGA event in the Grand Rapids MI area? Professional golf has been sorely missed in this area since the Senior Tour stop departed a few years ago.

p.s. enjoyed watching you 'graduate' from WWMT in Kalamazoo MI up to The Golf Channel. Good luck in your new endeavors.

[Kraig Kann]

[quote name='Mizgoodie' timestamp='1326828428' post='4100049']
hi,

any chances of bringing or getting a tournament back in Illinois?,, I think a match play event in the Chicago area would be fun.? Also

what are the plans for events that run the same weekends as male majors for tv coverage....



also on the Gc thing... we should get live at " " at lpga majors I think i would draw more viewers and a chance to learn about the foreign players in the fields... don't know what you can do about that but put the word in


thanks for the chat
[/quote] As for the Live From - Golf Channel coming on site for big LPGA events.... we're working on that. Ultimately, that's up to the GC .... but trust me... I'd love to see Tim Rosaforte, Rich Lerner, Frank Nobilo, Brandel, Kelly and the gang at an LPGA event soon. Brandel owes me dinner at a Mexican restaurant!

[pga43]

[quote name='Kraig Kann' timestamp='1326830036' post='4100257']
[quote name='Mizgoodie' timestamp='1326828428' post='4100049']
hi,

any chances of bringing or getting a tournament back in Illinois?,, I think a match play event in the Chicago area would be fun.? Also

what are the plans for events that run the same weekends as male majors for tv coverage....



also on the Gc thing... we should get live at " " at lpga majors I think i would draw more viewers and a chance to learn about the foreign players in the fields... don't know what you can do about that but put the word in


thanks for the chat
[/quote] As for the Live From - Golf Channel coming on site for big LPGA events.... we're working on that. Ultimately, that's up to the GC .... but trust me... I'd love to see Tim Rosaforte, Rich Lerner, Frank Nobilo, Brandel, Kelly and the gang at an LPGA event soon. [b][i][u][size="4"]Brandel owes me dinner at a Mexican restaurant![/size][/u][/i][/b]
[/quote]

[size="4"]Just tell him to send the cash!! lol[/size]
[size="4"]
[/size]
[size="4"]
[/size]
[size="4"]Greg[/size]

[pl8nut]

I know you are no longer with TGC but what about a weekly show on there for example this week in the LPGA? Should I bug you about this or TGC? PETER

[Kraig Kann]

[quote name='cwglum' timestamp='1326829882' post='4100245']
Kraig -

Has there ever been talks of adding an LPGA event in the Grand Rapids MI area? Professional golf has been sorely missed in this area since the Senior Tour stop departed a few years ago.

p.s. enjoyed watching you 'graduate' from WWMT in Kalamazoo MI up to The Golf Channel. Good luck in your new endeavors.
[/quote] Thanks for keeping tabs on me all these years.... I always tell people that my favorite years in television were in Kalamazoo. Learned a lot... great people there and a whole lot of fun at WWMT. So thanks for that. This job has been rewarding in many ways... an opportunity I hoped to be able to come my way in the future, not the present. I always asked myself what I'd be doing in 5 or 10 years and television wasn't a lock. I want to be able to make a difference... and just like I feel I helped take Golf Channel from an idea to a brand, I think the same applies in many ways here. The LPGA is a sleeping giant with so much potential to grow. If I can be a part of leading this tour and its players into its greatest years... then it will have been the best thing I've ever done. The support has been outstanding... adn I think my 25 years of media experience has already helped in a few ways. Most of all, I've learned more in 5 months than I have in five years..... all good. If you've got a sponsor... I know of plenty of great golf courses in Kalamazoo!! Grand Rapids too... and Benton Harbor, Paw Paw, Battle Creek, Three Rivers. .... ok you get the point.

[Kraig Kann]

[quote name='pl8nut' timestamp='1326830363' post='4100295']
I know you are no longer with TGC but what about a weekly show on there for example this week in the LPGA? Should I bug you about this or TGC? PETER
[/quote] you're thinking like I'm thinking! It's on my radar.... we'll see where that goes.

[Kraig Kann]

[quote name='Mizgoodie' timestamp='1326829682' post='4100209']
Will the Lpga be the first world pro circuit ?... playing a full season around the world I like the idea. What would happen to the Let? , and would the majors have to be redone to incorporate the world?
[/quote] Can't speak for the LET (Ladies European Tour) .... but if I were guessing... in 10 years the idea of a world tour will be an old idea - not a new one. Asia has plenty of money and plenty of room for growth. The support the LPGA received in Korea, Taiwan, Japan, Malaysia was unreal. The players are rock stars from the minute they get off the plane. I'd also like to believe that a designated major will be held in Asia in the next 10 years. Don't know which tour.... This is a global game for sure... and the LPGA is leading the charge.

[theinsider]

Kraig,

Glad to see the LPGA now having two events on the schedule being played in Canada. Obviously they are taking place in Vancouver, British Columbia and Waterloo, Ontario this year but will there be any issues finding support for both events if they are both played in Ontario in the same year? Does the LPGA have a strategy that ensures both can be as successful as possible in a year like that?

[Kraig Kann]

[quote name='theinsider' timestamp='1326830676' post='4100335']
Kraig,

Glad to see the LPGA now having two events on the schedule being played in Canada. Obviously they are taking place in Vancouver, British Columbia and Waterloo, Ontario this year but will there be any issues finding support for both events if they are both played in Ontario in the same year? Does the LPGA have a strategy that ensures both can be as successful as possible in a year like that?
[/quote] We're all glad to see two events in Canada. Strategy? There is no way the LPGA would venture into a year like this without a strong believe that both would be successful. Ask Stu MacDonald from Golf Digest Canada... he knows there is plenty of support. And going all the way back to my earliest days at Golf Channel... the Canadians are the most passionate fans for golf that I have ever seen or heard... and believe me... Canadians yell loud - not just proud.

[Kraig Kann]

[quote name='LiveSTRONG1' timestamp='1326829668' post='4100207']
[quote name='Kraig Kann' timestamp='1326828673' post='4100083']
[quote name='tbowles411' timestamp='1326744541' post='4094285']
[quote name='mizuno player' timestamp='1326503527' post='4080549']
Kraig we would love to have the lpga back in D.C.
[/quote]
THIS!!!!!

Also, when it comes to coverage of TGC, why is it that it seems that the ladies are considered "second class" when it comes to actually watching a tournament at a decent hour, and more than just a couple hours of it, when we do get to see it?
[/quote] no second class... I can tell you that for sure. GC loves the LPGA... but the PGA TOUR contract was completed first and there are restrictions. I will tell you that our ratings on Golf Channel were up 29 percent across the board last year and 38 percent for N American events. This year 100% of our N American telecasts on the weekends will be live. That feels first class to me
[/quote]


Will GC change the way Thu/Fri telecasts are presented? On the PGA coverage, they follow marquee pairings and show alot of tee shots, but the LPGA broadcast is full of chips and putts. Makes it tough to watch 2+ hours of short game, especially since it follows PGA coverage.
[/quote] Good question - and one that's more for the Golf Channel than for me. But we work together to provide fans with our coverage... and we'd like to see more full shots as well. Golf Channel has a top notch crew assembled - and this year they're taking it up another level. Rumor that a lot of GC talent wants to be a part of the telecast which says something for the excitement level about this year's schedule and our cast of players. I'll never be too critical of GC... I've seen the effort that goes into everything. Fans are very, very fortunate for what they do.

[kingsford59]

Mr. Kann,

We lost the CVS/pharmacy LPGA Challenge at Blackhawk CC in Danville last year. In 2009 and 2010 I was very, very lucky to be a spotter/scorer for The Golf Channel. Working with The Golf Channel production staff was a lot of fun and it was cool to be around people who really cared about that event.

Do you think the LPGA will return to northern California in the near future?

Good luck Kraig!

[theinsider]

Thanks Kraig.

[Kraig Kann]

[quote name='pl8nut' timestamp='1326830363' post='4100295']
I know you are no longer with TGC but what about a weekly show on there for example this week in the LPGA? Should I bug you about this or TGC? PETER
[/quote] Bug me if you want... but bug them too. I'm bugging everyone with this idea

[HipCheck]

Any more plans of miking players during live rounds? I enjoyed that-- specifically seeing the caddy-player relationship at work.

What about Playing Lessons with the Pros? Now that GC has a different format with Brandel following players, this seems like way to let a player's mental game shine through.

[pga43]

[quote name='Kraig Kann' timestamp='1326831376' post='4100447']
[quote name='pl8nut' timestamp='1326830363' post='4100295']
[b][size="3"]I know you are no longer with TGC but what about a weekly show on there for example this week in the LPGA? Should I bug you about this or TGC?[/size][/b] PETER
[/quote][size="4"] Bug me if you want... but bug them too. I'm bugging everyone with this idea[/size]
[/quote]

GolfWRX.com members need to start a Twitter campaign to get The Golf Channel to listen!



Greg

[Kraig Kann]

[quote name='kingsford59' timestamp='1326831339' post='4100437']
Mr. Kann,

We lost the CVS/pharmacy LPGA Challenge at Blackhawk CC in Danville last year. In 2009 and 2010 I was very, very lucky to be a spotter/scorer for The Golf Channel. Working with The Golf Channel production staff was a lot of fun and it was cool to be around people who really cared about that event.

Do you think the LPGA will return to northern California in the near future?

Good luck Kraig!
[/quote] If the 49ers win the Super Bowl there will be so much excitement in NoCal that I'm convinced Alex Smith would donate the money needed to keep an event in the area! You were lucky... being a spotter for Golf Channel is a lot of fun... especially if Jerry Foltz is anywhere nearby. I hope we're back soon... call it the LPGA Candlestick Classic! By the way... Alex Msith, Justin Smith, Aldon Smith..... Sarah Jane Smith would have to be the favorite to win!!

[Kraig Kann]

[quote name='pga43' timestamp='1326831508' post='4100463']
[quote name='Kraig Kann' timestamp='1326831376' post='4100447']
[quote name='pl8nut' timestamp='1326830363' post='4100295']
[b][size="3"]I know you are no longer with TGC but what about a weekly show on there for example this week in the LPGA? Should I bug you about this or TGC?[/size][/b] PETER
[/quote][size="4"] Bug me if you want... but bug them too. I'm bugging everyone with this idea[/size]
[/quote]

GolfWRX.com members need to start a Twitter campaign to get The Golf Channel to listen!



Greg
[/quote] that's fine... but have them campaign for more followers to our LPGA, Road2LPGA twitter accounts... and our LPGA Facebook page. Over a million now... and growing. Plus... I'm only 21 followers short of 6,000 myself - but who's counting! Thanks for all the support folks

[Kraig Kann]

[quote name='HipCheck' timestamp='1326831435' post='4100455']
Any more plans of miking players during live rounds? I enjoyed that-- specifically seeing the caddy-player relationship at work.

What about Playing Lessons with the Pros? Now that GC has a different format with Brandel following players, this seems like way to let a player's mental game shine through.
[/quote] Miking players is something the Golf Channel started and will continue to do. We're all for it... and the players don't seem to mind as much as you might think. Remember... and I tell them this all the time... it's all about opportunity! The media is an opportunity, not an obligation. Those who see the positive in the press will bet the best. Great way to brand yourself and your tour. Playing lessons is a great show. We're working to create more opportunities for LPGA players to be a part of the show this year. you'll definitely see them more on GC as prime-time opportunities come our way, Morning Drive, Golf Fixx, Golf Central etc. We're ready whenever! And Golf Channel has been incredibly supportive of our players. But can they get a word in edgewise with Breed???

[pga43]

[quote name='Kraig Kann' timestamp='1326831680' post='4100481']
[quote name='pga43' timestamp='1326831508' post='4100463']
[quote name='Kraig Kann' timestamp='1326831376' post='4100447']
[quote name='pl8nut' timestamp='1326830363' post='4100295']
[b][size="3"]I know you are no longer with TGC but what about a weekly show on there for example this week in the LPGA? Should I bug you about this or TGC?[/size][/b] PETER
[/quote][size="4"] Bug me if you want... but bug them too. I'm bugging everyone with this idea[/size]
[/quote]

GolfWRX.com members need to start a Twitter campaign to get The Golf Channel to listen!



Greg
[/quote] that's fine... but have them campaign for more followers to our LPGA, Road2LPGA twitter accounts... and our LPGA Facebook page. Over a million now... and growing. Plus... I'm only 21 followers short of 6,000 myself - but who's counting! Thanks for all the support folks
[/quote]

Encourage your players to follow GolfWRX.com on twitter & our FaceBook page (and ask their followers to follow us). We can use the followers, too!



Greg

[SheriffBooth]

What sort of financial commitment is required to be a primary sponsor for an LPGA tour stop? How do sponsors measure or predict the return on their investment when evaluating whether to jump in?

Also, any chance of resurrecting the Kingsmill stop? That was always a fan and player favorite.

[Kraig Kann]

[quote name='pjaf' timestamp='1326829243' post='4100153']
Interested to know if commissioner Whan has given any consideration to another Canadian event? Lots of fans, its close by and in north america still, must be some sponsor opportunities here in the north. Would love to see some more tournaments Canada!

Also any plans on coming back to the golf channel ? You always did such a great job hosting the show " the approach". That show was the best!
[/quote] Never say never when it comes to events in Canada, right? Sponsors willing? LPGA wants long term partners. 3 year partners are great... 33 year partners are the one's that make us really proud. We've had a lot to celebrate here at headquarters over the last few weeks... but want everyone to know that while adding new partners, we haven't forgotten about those who've been supportive for so many years. As for Golf Channel return..... don't even know where to go with that. I will say that the number of folks who've commented since I left has been flattering. It was a thrill ride to be a part of that network from the beginning.. and the thing that made it so special was the viewer and the number of people who recognize the work we did. "Hey, its the Golf Channel guy!" - I've heard it a thousand times... and still do. Who knows what the future brings.... but we've got big things planned here and that's where my focus is. Enjoying the time spent AWAY from the make-up chair

[Sean2]

Hi Kraig,

Thanks for joining us. I really enjoy watching the LPGA golf tournaments. Is there any chance the players could discuss the kind of equipment they are playing and why from time to time?

Thanks and good luck in 2012. :-)

cheers --Sean

[Kraig Kann]

[quote name='SheriffBooth' timestamp='1326832427' post='4100549']
What sort of financial commitment is required to be a primary sponsor for an LPGA tour stop? How do sponsors measure or predict the return on their investment when evaluating whether to jump in?

Also, any chance of resurrecting the Kingsmill stop? That was always a fan and player favorite.
[/quote] Hey Sheriff.... every tournament requires a sponsor... and every sponsor requires money and a commitment to help us grow together. "Jumping in" might be a bit scary... but the return has proven to be quite positive for some of our recent additions. And Kingsmill is one of them. September 6-9 - were COMING BACK!!! Kingsmill Championship. See you there in 2012.