"Some of this new crop of players could have gone professional in other sports but chose golf"

[tiderider]

i've reached the limit on my allowed statements supporting an auburn player (typically reserved for only bo jackson), so > @cdnglf said:

> > @LICC said:

> > > @cdnglf said:

> > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > @cdnglf said:

> > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > @cdnglf said:

> > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > @cdnglf said:

> > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > @cdnglf said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > @cdnglf said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @cdnglf said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @cdnglf said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Deion Sanders - Hall of Fame NFLer and ok MLBer

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Danny Ainge - Solid NBA player, brief MLB career

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Bo Jackson - Hype exceeded the reality, but still... played in both the NFL and MLB.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dave Winfield - Drafted by 4 different leagues (ABA, NBA, MLB, NFL) in 3 different sports.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Tom Glavine - MLB Hall of Famer, Mid-round NHL draft pick.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Charlie Ward - NBA player, Heismann winner, token MLB draft pick

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kyler Murray - 1st overall NFL draft pick, 9th overall MLB draft pick

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Babe Didrikson is the only golfer I can think of with comparable crossover abilities.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > How did Bo Jackson hype exceed reality? He was a Pro Bowler in the NFL and an All-Star in MLB. A tremendous player in both sports.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rick Rhoden was a MLB All-Star and good enough at golf to play in the U.S. Senior Open and Champions Tour events.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Jackson looked great and was capable of awesome highlight reel stuff, but his actual output was very small.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > In baseball, 8.3 career WAR with a single-season best of 3.5.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > In football, less than 3000 yards total rushing and 18 TD total. Never rushed for 1000 yards, or played more than 11 games in a season.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rhoden is interesting... wasn't really thinking of senior golf guys.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > WAR is a deficient statistic. In his two best baseball seasons before he was injured, he had a 124 and 142 OPS+.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > In his two best NFL seasons before his injury, he had 5.5 and 5.6 yards per carry. He was one of the best players in both sports before he was injured.

> > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > No, that is just silly. He was nowhere near being one of the best players in baseball at any point.

> > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > If you do a whole bunch of caveating, you can make the argument he was one of the best players in football for a very short period of time on a pro-rated basis. But durability matters, and he didn't have it.

> > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > He played football after the baseball season ended.

> > > > > > > > > > > > A 142 OPS+ with a 30 HR/25 SB talent, a rocket for an arm, and highlight-reel defense, is justifiably an All-Star.

> > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > Why did you combine the career highs from different years?

> > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > Why are you still trying to argue a silly assertion? Ok, a 124 OPS+ with 30 HR/25 SB talent, a rocket for an arm, and highlight-reel defense, followed by a 142 OPS+ season, is justifiably an All-Star.

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > A 3.5 WAR season isn't All-Star calibre.

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > If you can't understand the deficiencies of WAR and the impressiveness of 124 and 142 OPS+ seasons, then you are on full display here of your lack of credibility.

> > > > > > >

> > > > > > > Says the guy who cherry-picks a rate stat for a season in which Jackson only played 2/3rds of the games.

> > > > > > > 124 OPS+ isn't that great for a left fielder who can't stay healthy.

> > > > > >

> > > > > > Please stop, you are digging a bigger credibility hole for yourself. I'm feeling bad for you.

> > > > > > 124 OPS+ is generally in the top 40 or better of all of MLB. Clearly All-Star level.

> > > > >

> > > > > 76th in WAR is not all-star level.

> > > >

> > > > The WAR joke again. LOL. You should stay away from talking statistics if you don't understand them.

> > > > 14 MLB All-Stars this year have an OPS+ less than 124.

> > >

> > > What is wrong with WAR?

> >

> > It is based on speculative judgements, and is affected by factors beyond the player's performance.

> > There are lots of pieces critiquing its flaws, here is one: https://medium.com/@joelkupfersmid/stat-talk-whats-wrong-with-war-wins-above-replacement-cf391eb4153

> >

>

> So instead, let's cherry pick a hitting-only rate stat, ignore counting stats, and ignore the defensive spectrum. Stellar.

 

i've reached the limit on my allowed statements supporting an auburn player (typically reserved for only bo jackson), but i think you're nuts (regarding his baseball ability) ...

[bscinstnct]

> @tiderider said:

> i've reached the limit on my allowed statements supporting an auburn player (typically reserved for only bo jackson), so > @cdnglf said:

> > > @LICC said:

> > > > @cdnglf said:

> > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > @cdnglf said:

> > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > @cdnglf said:

> > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > @cdnglf said:

> > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > @cdnglf said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > @cdnglf said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @cdnglf said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @cdnglf said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Deion Sanders - Hall of Fame NFLer and ok MLBer

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Danny Ainge - Solid NBA player, brief MLB career

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Bo Jackson - Hype exceeded the reality, but still... played in both the NFL and MLB.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dave Winfield - Drafted by 4 different leagues (ABA, NBA, MLB, NFL) in 3 different sports.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Tom Glavine - MLB Hall of Famer, Mid-round NHL draft pick.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Charlie Ward - NBA player, Heismann winner, token MLB draft pick

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kyler Murray - 1st overall NFL draft pick, 9th overall MLB draft pick

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Babe Didrikson is the only golfer I can think of with comparable crossover abilities.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > How did Bo Jackson hype exceed reality? He was a Pro Bowler in the NFL and an All-Star in MLB. A tremendous player in both sports.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rick Rhoden was a MLB All-Star and good enough at golf to play in the U.S. Senior Open and Champions Tour events.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Jackson looked great and was capable of awesome highlight reel stuff, but his actual output was very small.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > In baseball, 8.3 career WAR with a single-season best of 3.5.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > In football, less than 3000 yards total rushing and 18 TD total. Never rushed for 1000 yards, or played more than 11 games in a season.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rhoden is interesting... wasn't really thinking of senior golf guys.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > WAR is a deficient statistic. In his two best baseball seasons before he was injured, he had a 124 and 142 OPS+.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > In his two best NFL seasons before his injury, he had 5.5 and 5.6 yards per carry. He was one of the best players in both sports before he was injured.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > No, that is just silly. He was nowhere near being one of the best players in baseball at any point.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > If you do a whole bunch of caveating, you can make the argument he was one of the best players in football for a very short period of time on a pro-rated basis. But durability matters, and he didn't have it.

> > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > He played football after the baseball season ended.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > A 142 OPS+ with a 30 HR/25 SB talent, a rocket for an arm, and highlight-reel defense, is justifiably an All-Star.

> > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > Why did you combine the career highs from different years?

> > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > Why are you still trying to argue a silly assertion? Ok, a 124 OPS+ with 30 HR/25 SB talent, a rocket for an arm, and highlight-reel defense, followed by a 142 OPS+ season, is justifiably an All-Star.

> > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > A 3.5 WAR season isn't All-Star calibre.

> > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > If you can't understand the deficiencies of WAR and the impressiveness of 124 and 142 OPS+ seasons, then you are on full display here of your lack of credibility.

> > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > Says the guy who cherry-picks a rate stat for a season in which Jackson only played 2/3rds of the games.

> > > > > > > > 124 OPS+ isn't that great for a left fielder who can't stay healthy.

> > > > > > >

> > > > > > > Please stop, you are digging a bigger credibility hole for yourself. I'm feeling bad for you.

> > > > > > > 124 OPS+ is generally in the top 40 or better of all of MLB. Clearly All-Star level.

> > > > > >

> > > > > > 76th in WAR is not all-star level.

> > > > >

> > > > > The WAR joke again. LOL. You should stay away from talking statistics if you don't understand them.

> > > > > 14 MLB All-Stars this year have an OPS+ less than 124.

> > > >

> > > > What is wrong with WAR?

> > >

> > > It is based on speculative judgements, and is affected by factors beyond the player's performance.

> > > There are lots of pieces critiquing its flaws, here is one: https://medium.com/@joelkupfersmid/stat-talk-whats-wrong-with-war-wins-above-replacement-cf391eb4153

> > >

> >

> > So instead, let's cherry pick a hitting-only rate stat, ignore counting stats, and ignore the defensive spectrum. Stellar.

>

> i've reached the limit on my allowed statements supporting an auburn player (typically reserved for only bo jackson), but i think you're nuts (regarding his baseball ability) ...

 

Lol, was gonna say you being very magnanimous given the rivalry ; )

 

But anybody who saw Bo, especially back then, knows the guy is like freaking superhuman.

 

I remember one Auburn game, was like,

 

Pitch it to Bo, 20 yards

Pitch it to Bo, 40 yards

Pitch it to Bo, there he goes.

 

And with Kieth Jacksonnnnnn making the calls!

 

.

 

Then, he goes and plays MLB baseball too? I don’t think he even played much baseball at Auburn.

 

 

 

 

[PZero]

I bet DJ would be a pretty good outfielder.

[golfortennis]

I can't recall if it was sportscentury, or 30 for 30, but one of the teammates of Jackson said it was the only time he had ever seen a lockerroom of professional athletes be in awe of another player. that was the type of physical specimen he was.

 

But ok, it appears the argument is if you get your hop pulled right out of your socket too early in your career, you were just a bandwagon bum.

[tiderider]

> @PZero said:

> I bet DJ would be a pretty good outfielder.

 

eh, don't know how well he runs ... not saying he's not fast, but a golf swing isn't indicative of leg speed (that i know of) ... honestly wouldn't be surprised if a young daly had pretty good speed ...

[Wesquire]

> @rangersgoalie said:

> Tiger, Phil and Rory were in top 40 athlete earners

> Longevity of a golf career levels a lot of the numbers for a career

>

> ****, Palmer was near the top earners until he died probably after his passing

>

> But to the OP there are about as many chances golfers could play professionally as there are Jordan’s who were delusional enough to think they could play baseball or golf professionally

>

> The specialization required by virtually all is just too consuming

 

If Jordan concentrated on baseball from the beginning he absolutely could have been an MLB player.> @Ole3wiggle said:

> > @Wesquire said:

> > > @Ole3wiggle said:

> > > > @Wesquire said:

> > > > > @Sixcat said:

> > > > > > @"HackerD " said:

> > > > > > Gary Woodland is another mentioned as very athletic, and played D2 basketball. He was not close to being NBA talent, though.

> > > > >

> > > > > I heard Woodland on a podcast a few weeks after the US Open. He was asked a question along the lines of _"What made you decide to ditch basketball riches for golf?"_ His reply was something like _"The first time I had to guard Kirk Hinrich, I knew I didn't have a future in basketball! There was another level and I didn't have it!"_

> > > >

> > > > Basketball is easily the hardest of the major team sports to have a successful pro career in.

> > >

> > > Interested on how you are defining "successful" here

> >

> > Being able to be a meaningful contribution to the team for 5+ years. The height and length you have to have already already disqualifies probably like 90% of the population. Then add the athleticism and now that you have to be able to dribble and shoot....you arent guaranteed to make it to the NBA even if you are 6'8" and a world class athlete.

>

> I would argue the NHL would be harder to have a meaningful contribution of 5+ years, given your example. 99% of the population cant ice skate. Also, the NFL average career length is something like 2-3 years or something. Its incredibly hard to make a meaningful contribution in any professional sport for 5+ years.

 

Far fewer people play hockey than basketball, and the physical outliers needed are far less. NFL teams have many many more players on the roster.

[Wesquire]

> @bscinstnct said:

> Lol, was gonna say you being very magnanimous given the rivalry ; )

>

> But anybody who saw Bo, especially back then, knows the guy is like freaking superhuman.

>

> I remember one Auburn game, was like,

>

> Pitch it to Bo, 20 yards

> Pitch it to Bo, 40 yards

> Pitch it to Bo, there he goes.

>

> And with Kieth Jacksonnnnnn making the calls!

>

> .

>

> Then, he goes and plays MLB baseball too? I don’t think he even played much baseball at Auburn.

>

>

>

>

 

My dad played football and baseball at Auburn. They weren't allowed to play both in the same year until his senior year. He graduated like a year or two before Bo got there. The baseball coach was very much not okay with having players that weren't full time baseball. I'm sure he would have made an exception for Bo though.

[RobertBaron]

If Bo doesn’t blow out his hip... who knows?? Could’ve been in 2 pro Halls of Fame.

[cdnglf]

> @RobertBaron said:

> If Bo doesn’t blow out his hip... who knows?? Could’ve been in 2 pro Halls of Fame.

 

... good example of why I said the hype exceeded the reality.

[LICC]

> @cdnglf said:

> > @RobertBaron said:

> > If Bo doesn’t blow out his hip... who knows?? Could’ve been in 2 pro Halls of Fame.

>

> ... good example why I said hype exceeded the reality.

 

Which was baseless and contrary to facts, but sure ...

[jonsnow]

> @LICC said:

> > @cdnglf said:

> > > @LICC said:

> > > > @cdnglf said:

> > > > Deion Sanders - Hall of Fame NFLer and ok MLBer

> > > > Danny Ainge - Solid NBA player, brief MLB career

> > > > Bo Jackson - Hype exceeded the reality, but still... played in both the NFL and MLB.

> > > > Dave Winfield - Drafted by 4 different leagues (ABA, NBA, MLB, NFL) in 3 different sports.

> > > > Tom Glavine - MLB Hall of Famer, Mid-round NHL draft pick.

> > > > Charlie Ward - NBA player, Heismann winner, token MLB draft pick

> > > > Kyler Murray - 1st overall NFL draft pick, 9th overall MLB draft pick

> > > >

> > > > Babe Didrikson is the only golfer I can think of with comparable crossover abilities.

> > > >

> > > >

> > >

> > > How did Bo Jackson hype exceed reality? He was a Pro Bowler in the NFL and an All-Star in MLB. A tremendous player in both sports.

> > >

> > > Rick Rhoden was a MLB All-Star and good enough at golf to play in the U.S. Senior Open and Champions Tour events.

> >

> > Jackson looked great and was capable of awesome highlight reel stuff, but his actual output was very small.

> >

> > In baseball, 8.3 career WAR with a single-season best of 3.5.

> > In football, less than 3000 yards total rushing and 18 TD total. Never rushed for 1000 yards, or played more than 11 games in a season.

> >

> > Rhoden is interesting... wasn't really thinking of senior golf guys.

>

> WAR is a deficient statistic. In his two best baseball seasons before he was injured, he had a 124 and 142 OPS+.

> In his two best NFL seasons before his injury, he had 5.5 and 5.6 yards per carry. He was one of the best players in both sports before he was injured.

 

Per Mark Twain: "There are three types of lies: lies, damn lies, & statistics." Bo Jackson is the greatest athlete I ever saw. And I'm saying that as a lifelong UGA fan who watched Herschel Walker in his prime & who hates Auburn with a passion. But Bo is better...

 

 

[Lagavulin62]

> @tiderider said:

> > @Lagavulin62 said:

> > Why all the disrespect? BK, DJ, and prob even Rory would be star linebackers anywhere in the NFL. Golf gives them more time to spend with family at the best resorts worldwide. It’s not just about them.

>

> this a troll? ...

 

Troll? You can’t figure out that was over the top sarcasm? Is this the first post of mine you’ve read? Lol. Wake up. You are not a new guy.

[Man_O_War]

Hovland and Wolf definitely would be wood choppers

[dan360]

Fowler was headed in the right direction for a reasonable AMA “pro” career. He barely got into the big bikes before smashing his foot into 3 pieces at 15 yrs old. That’s when he concentrated on golf more serious and is probably the only current American tour player with a halfway decent shot at another something else sporty career. You don’t rock a 14 number plate in national media without being able to back it up.

 

For the legends, Arnold Palmer was a legit pool hustler. Nicklaus and Nick Price could probably win bass fishing tournaments today, and Hale Irwin was a pretty accomplished D1 football player.

 

For Euros, Sergio played professional football/soccer, briefly, and I’ve heard rumors of a few other Euro players who know their way around a pitch, and have talent with a cricket bat.

[Lagavulin62]

> @dan360 said:

> Fowler was headed in the right direction for a reasonable AMA “pro” career. He barely got into the big bikes before smashing his foot into 3 pieces at 15 yrs old. That’s when he concentrated on golf more serious and is probably the only current American tour player with a halfway decent shot at another something else sporty career. You don’t rock a 14 number plate in national media without being able to back it up.

>

> For the legends, Arnold Palmer was a legit pool hustler. Nicklaus and Nick Price could probably win bass fishing tournaments today, and Hale Irwin was a pretty accomplished D1 football player.

>

> For Euros, Sergio played professional football/soccer, briefly, and I’ve heard rumors of a few other Euro players who know their way around a pitch, and have talent with a cricket bat.

 

 

Interesting post but assuming it’s serious let me critique honestly.

 

I think I am in the majority that believe motor sports, fishing, and certainly pool, do not require the level of athleticism as skill sports such as the big 3.(football, basketball, baseball) Also look at the level of access to motor sports. I went to HS in a small northeast Texas town, pretty much a hotbed area for motorized sports. Yet I only recall one classmate involved in motor cross. I don’t know of anyone with links to auto racing. Of course that really doesn’t have anything to do with whether these so called sports are in fact sports. But I would argue they do not require an ability comparable to traditional sports and at least at this point, most of those competitive “sports” require access, at least at the entry level, and that lack of access by many is the primary barrier, not natural born talent. I promise you if given opportunities many would excel in those areas that otherwise could never compete in the usual sports. It’s not the same argument as saying golf and tennis are not as competitive because most kids don’t play those sports. In other words auto sports, fishing, probably even bowling, are not as competitive, not because real athletes don’t compete, but because everyday kids do not have access.

 

So to say Ricky, Arnold, could have been pros in another “sport”, well you haven’t made any sort of convincing argument.

 

That said you are probably correct about Irwin, Sergio, and other Euros. I don’t think anyone would argue against the athletic ability to play soccer, criquet, and the like.

 

 

 

 

[PureSlice]

> @Lagavulin62 said:

> > @dan360 said:

> > Fowler was headed in the right direction for a reasonable AMA “pro” career. He barely got into the big bikes before smashing his foot into 3 pieces at 15 yrs old. That’s when he concentrated on golf more serious and is probably the only current American tour player with a halfway decent shot at another something else sporty career. You don’t rock a 14 number plate in national media without being able to back it up.

> >

> > For the legends, Arnold Palmer was a legit pool hustler. Nicklaus and Nick Price could probably win bass fishing tournaments today, and Hale Irwin was a pretty accomplished D1 football player.

> >

> > For Euros, Sergio played professional football/soccer, briefly, and I’ve heard rumors of a few other Euro players who know their way around a pitch, and have talent with a cricket bat.

>

>

> Interesting post but assuming it’s serious let me critique honestly.

>

> I think I am in the majority that believe motor sports, fishing, and certainly pool, do not require the level of athleticism as skill sports such as the big 3.(football, basketball, baseball) Also look at the level of access to motor sports. I went to HS in a small northeast Texas town, pretty much a hotbed area for motorized sports. Yet I only recall one classmate involved in motor cross. I don’t know of anyone with links to auto racing. Of course that really doesn’t have anything to do with whether these so called sports are in fact sports. But I would argue they do not require an ability comparable to traditional sports and at least at this point, most of those competitive “sports” require access, at least at the entry level, and that lack of access by many is the primary barrier, not natural born talent. I promise you if given opportunities many would excel in those areas that otherwise could never compete in the usual sports. It’s not the same argument as saying golf and tennis are not as competitive because most kids don’t play those sports. In other words auto sports, fishing, probably even bowling, are not as competitive, not because real athletes don’t compete, but because everyday kids do not have access.

>

> So to say Ricky, Arnold, could have been pros in another “sport”, well you haven’t made any sort of convincing argument.

>

> That said you are probably correct about Irwin, Sergio, and other Euros. I don’t think anyone would argue against the athletic ability to play soccer, criquet, and the like.

>

>

>

>

 

what?

[johnseg]

I would like to throw out the name of Dick Groat. Dick was a great basketball and baseball player. Dick played at Duke and had his number retired. Drafted 3rd overall in the NBA played one year and went to war. Came back signed with the Pirates and became an All Star SS including NL MVP and Batting Champ in 1960.

Dick is the Great Uncle of Brooks Koepka and is one of the owners of Champion Lakes Golf Resort in Ligonier (Course Record -5 by Rocco).

Not a bad two sport pro.

And as for Bo anyone who played Techmo Bowl knows how good Bo was.

[soregongolfer]

I've heard Sergio throws a mean spitter.

[Lloyd_Christmas29]

> @Wesquire said:

> > @Llortamaisey said:

> > Video games are now considered sports and you can go pro. Some nerd just won a cool $3 mill for playing fortnite while eating boogers. Maybe that’s the sport some golfers could have done well at.

>

> It takes a lot more time than real sports. Most esports players spend close to 14 hours per day practicing, and they live in "team houses" with their teammates.

 

This. Practicing golf 3 hours every single day would make most people scratch if not better. Playing Fortnite 3 hours a day, you might be as good as the average 12 year old.

[Wesquire]

> @Lloyd_Christmas29 said:

> > @Wesquire said:

> > > @Llortamaisey said:

> > > Video games are now considered sports and you can go pro. Some nerd just won a cool $3 mill for playing fortnite while eating boogers. Maybe that’s the sport some golfers could have done well at.

> >

> > It takes a lot more time than real sports. Most esports players spend close to 14 hours per day practicing, and they live in "team houses" with their teammates.

>

> This. Practicing golf 3 hours every single day would make most people scratch if not better. Playing Fortnite 3 hours a day, you might be as good as the average 12 year old.

 

I like video games, and I've been into esports before....but I just dont get the popularity of Fortnite. It is easily the worst game I've ever played.

[Lloyd_Christmas29]

> @Wesquire said:

> > @Lloyd_Christmas29 said:

> > > @Wesquire said:

> > > > @Llortamaisey said:

> > > > Video games are now considered sports and you can go pro. Some nerd just won a cool $3 mill for playing fortnite while eating boogers. Maybe that’s the sport some golfers could have done well at.

> > >

> > > It takes a lot more time than real sports. Most esports players spend close to 14 hours per day practicing, and they live in "team houses" with their teammates.

> >

> > This. Practicing golf 3 hours every single day would make most people scratch if not better. Playing Fortnite 3 hours a day, you might be as good as the average 12 year old.

>

> I like video games, and I've been into esports before....but I just dont get the popularity of Fortnite. It is easily the worst game I've ever played.

 

Never got into Fortnite either. Star Wars Battlefront II is where its at!

[Lloyd_Christmas29]

Announcers talk about Koepka like he's a bodybuilder. The "fit" golfers on tour are no where near the body of say an NFL player. Woodland and Brooks look about the same as the average dad at your local Gold's Gym.

[Paintman]

> @mjen43 said:

> > @smashdn said:

> > Michael Jordan

> > Tim Tebow

> >

> > Not MLB level but still technically professional baseball players.

> >

> > Here is an aside question to ponder, if the equipment forced a higher level of hand-eye coordination/skill and rewarded athletic ability less (think persimmon and blades), would we see the body-type of golfers who are at the top of the sport transition back to folks who are a little more "round?"

>

> **** no. There is no evidence "round" people have higher levels of hand-eye coordination than athletic people. In fact I would say the opposite is more likely true, as "round" people are less likely to have the required dedication and discipline to push themselves to excel in a physical endevour (which golf inherently is) than those who keep themselves in shape.

>

> The only reason golfers didn't used to physically train is because they didn't have to to compete.

 

Babe Ruth

[golfandfishing]

I don’t belong to a Gold’s Gym, but my neighborhood LA Fitness is almost entirely doughy, tired, hobbling fat guys like me. There are maybe 5 members total in Brooks’ type of condition (that I agree is not outstandingly special).

 

> @Lloyd_Christmas29 said:

> Announcers talk about Koepka like he's a bodybuilder. The "fit" golfers on tour are no where near the body of say an NFL player. Woodland and Brooks look about the same as the average dad at your local Gold's Gym.

 

 

[Lloyd_Christmas29]

> @golfandfishing said:

> I don’t belong to a Gold’s Gym, but my neighborhood LA Fitness is almost entirely doughy, tired, hobbling fat guys like me. There are maybe 5 members total in Brooks’ type of condition (that I agree is not outstandingly special).

>

> > @Lloyd_Christmas29 said:

> > Announcers talk about Koepka like he's a bodybuilder. The "fit" golfers on tour are no where near the body of say an NFL player. Woodland and Brooks look about the same as the average dad at your local Gold's Gym.

>

>

 

Yeah I guess I just meant they definitely hit the weights, but aren’t anything different than most people that have been lifting for some years. Still about half the size of anyone in the NFL.

[Lagavulin62]

> @Lloyd_Christmas29 said:

> > @golfandfishing said:

> > I don’t belong to a Gold’s Gym, but my neighborhood LA Fitness is almost entirely doughy, tired, hobbling fat guys like me. There are maybe 5 members total in Brooks’ type of condition (that I agree is not outstandingly special).

> >

> > > @Lloyd_Christmas29 said:

> > > Announcers talk about Koepka like he's a bodybuilder. The "fit" golfers on tour are no where near the body of say an NFL player. Woodland and Brooks look about the same as the average dad at your local Gold's Gym.

> >

> >

>

> Yeah I guess I just meant they definitely hit the weights, but aren’t anything different than most people that have been lifting for some years. Still about half the size of anyone in the NFL.

 

The whole linebacker, these guys could play other sports bit is really just fun talk. You don’t really have to make a court standing type presentation. Just laugh it off. Add your own version of silliness. There is plenty to do in here if you want to be serious and crunch numbers.

[bscinstnct]

> @Lloyd_Christmas29 said:

> Announcers talk about Koepka like he's a bodybuilder. The "fit" golfers on tour are no where near the body of say an NFL player. Woodland and Brooks look about the same as the average dad at your local Gold's Gym.

 

Woodland is BKs size without lifting. If GW lifted and ate good, he’d be a pretty big dude, like 6’1, 230 or more.

 

 

[dan360]

> @Lagavulin62 said:

> > @dan360 said:

> > Fowler was headed in the right direction for a reasonable AMA “pro” career. He barely got into the big bikes before smashing his foot into 3 pieces at 15 yrs old. That’s when he concentrated on golf more serious and is probably the only current American tour player with a halfway decent shot at another something else sporty career. You don’t rock a 14 number plate in national media without being able to back it up.

> >

> > For the legends, Arnold Palmer was a legit pool hustler. Nicklaus and Nick Price could probably win bass fishing tournaments today, and Hale Irwin was a pretty accomplished D1 football player.

> >

> > For Euros, Sergio played professional football/soccer, briefly, and I’ve heard rumors of a few other Euro players who know their way around a pitch, and have talent with a cricket bat.

>

>

> Interesting post but assuming it’s serious let me critique honestly.

>

> I think I am in the majority that believe motor sports, fishing, and certainly pool, do not require the level of athleticism as skill sports such as the big 3.(football, basketball, baseball) Also look at the level of access to motor sports. I went to HS in a small northeast Texas town, pretty much a hotbed area for motorized sports. Yet I only recall one classmate involved in motor cross. I don’t know of anyone with links to auto racing. Of course that really doesn’t have anything to do with whether these so called sports are in fact sports. But I would argue they do not require an ability comparable to traditional sports and at least at this point, most of those competitive “sports” require access, at least at the entry level, and that lack of access by many is the primary barrier, not natural born talent. I promise you if given opportunities many would excel in those areas that otherwise could never compete in the usual sports. It’s not the same argument as saying golf and tennis are not as competitive because most kids don’t play those sports. In other words auto sports, fishing, probably even bowling, are not as competitive, not because real athletes don’t compete, but because everyday kids do not have access.

>

> So to say Ricky, Arnold, could have been pros in another “sport”, well you haven’t made any sort of convincing argument.

>

> That said you are probably correct about Irwin, Sergio, and other Euros. I don’t think anyone would argue against the athletic ability to play soccer, criquet, and the like.

>

>

>

>

 

Obviously you’ve never played best of 7 on a 10 ft Gold Crown in a fog of unfiltered Camel smoke surrounded by people with concealed weapons and thousands of dollars to lose between you and the drop top Deville outside the door.

[Lagavulin62]

> @dan360 said:

> > @Lagavulin62 said:

> > > @dan360 said:

> > > Fowler was headed in the right direction for a reasonable AMA “pro” career. He barely got into the big bikes before smashing his foot into 3 pieces at 15 yrs old. That’s when he concentrated on golf more serious and is probably the only current American tour player with a halfway decent shot at another something else sporty career. You don’t rock a 14 number plate in national media without being able to back it up.

> > >

> > > For the legends, Arnold Palmer was a legit pool hustler. Nicklaus and Nick Price could probably win bass fishing tournaments today, and Hale Irwin was a pretty accomplished D1 football player.

> > >

> > > For Euros, Sergio played professional football/soccer, briefly, and I’ve heard rumors of a few other Euro players who know their way around a pitch, and have talent with a cricket bat.

> >

> >

> > Interesting post but assuming it’s serious let me critique honestly.

> >

> > I think I am in the majority that believe motor sports, fishing, and certainly pool, do not require the level of athleticism as skill sports such as the big 3.(football, basketball, baseball) Also look at the level of access to motor sports. I went to HS in a small northeast Texas town, pretty much a hotbed area for motorized sports. Yet I only recall one classmate involved in motor cross. I don’t know of anyone with links to auto racing. Of course that really doesn’t have anything to do with whether these so called sports are in fact sports. But I would argue they do not require an ability comparable to traditional sports and at least at this point, most of those competitive “sports” require access, at least at the entry level, and that lack of access by many is the primary barrier, not natural born talent. I promise you if given opportunities many would excel in those areas that otherwise could never compete in the usual sports. It’s not the same argument as saying golf and tennis are not as competitive because most kids don’t play those sports. In other words auto sports, fishing, probably even bowling, are not as competitive, not because real athletes don’t compete, but because everyday kids do not have access.

> >

> > So to say Ricky, Arnold, could have been pros in another “sport”, well you haven’t made any sort of convincing argument.

> >

> > That said you are probably correct about Irwin, Sergio, and other Euros. I don’t think anyone would argue against the athletic ability to play soccer, criquet, and the like.

> >

> >

> >

> >

>

> Obviously you’ve never played best of 7 on a 10 ft Gold Crown in a fog of unfiltered Camel smoke surrounded by people with concealed weapons and thousands of dollars to lose between you and the drop top Deville outside the door.

 

No I haven’t. But if everyone in your worst case scenario was a licensed carrier, suffice to say you were not in grave physical danger. And if you don’t understand that you know nothing of guns and some of the people who carry them.

 

You still haven’t proven pool is a sport on par with the big 3. If you want to say it’s similar to high stakes poker, yeah I can see that.

[Cwing]

Mostly made up comments to fill air time and ink space. There may be guys that are/were very good athletes. As far as “going pro”, there maybe a few but not likely to be many. Most sports are built on speed. Just how well/fast do these guys move?