Paul Azinger

The Professional Golfers' Association of America (with or without the apostrophe and also known as the PGA of America) is the world's largest working sports organization, comprised of 27,000 men and women golf Professionals who are the recognized experts in growing, teaching and managing the game of golf, while serving millions of people throughout its 41 PGA Sections nationwide. Although the PGA logo is a registered trademark and cannot be used on promotional products or decorated apparel without permission from the organization, there are many unscrupulous companies that traffic in counterfeit PGA merchandise. The most counterfeited PGA apparel item is golf shirts (also known as polo shirts). In addition, the top golf shirt brands are counterfeited such as Nike, Adidas, Ping, Greg Norman, Tiger Woods, Izod and Arnold Palmer. The second most counterfeited PGA apparel item is t-shirts, with printed t-shirts being the most popular followed by embroidered t-shirts. Tied for third place are embroidered patches and hats. The least counterfeited PGA apparel items are sweatshirts and hooded sweatshirts (hoodies). The mission of The PGA of America is to promote enjoyment and involvement in golf among the general public, as well as to contribute to the game’s growth by producing services to golf Professionals and the industry. The PGA seeks to accomplish this mission by enhancing the skills of the PGA Professionals and expanding playing opportunities for the general public, employers and manufactures. Through these efforts, The PGA elevates the standards of the PGA Professional’s vocation, enhances the economic well-being of the individuals PGA member, stimulates interest in the game of golf and promotes the overall vitality of the game.