Some Thoughts About The Ryder Cup: Brad Patterson

Congratulations to the American Ryder Cup team for bringing "The Cup" back to The United States, but not without some controversy. The play was outstanding on both sides but there were some pointed criticisms about the American fans. Here's what I find puzzling.  You don't hear much about European soccer fans from the European side.  That's just a thought. I also think that the PGA of America did the right thing in putting out the memo concerning fan behavior and enforcing that policy.

I found a post on Facebook by our colleague Brad Patterson that pretty much says it all.  I want to share that post with you.  Here it is.

I'm not one to hold back on an opinion but I'm at a loss on this one. Please read and offer your thoughts. Preface this to say whenever the Americans win a Ryder Cup on US soil there is a "trend" the Euros are quick to cite the over the top behavior on the part of our players or our fans. It happened in 1999 with Justin Leonard and "The Putt", Louisville in '08, and it happened again this weekend. (These are the only victories on US soil in the past 17 years).

Many of you heard the exuberance from the fans during the event. Most notably the cheering when the Euros missed putts. We simply don't do that in golf. Even Mike Tirico commented as many of you have that "many of the patrons are sports fans and not necessarily golfers." Sports fans all across the board cheer, trash talk, and heckle. How we get the 6th man, the 12th man, the aura of playing in "their house." But as golf transitions and appeals to the masses it also attracts a multitude of people not educated on the etiquette and traditions of golf.

Maybe it began with the Euros calling out a heckler Thursday in an attempt to embarrass him with playing on a stage in front of millions for money. Their plan backfired and Insurance Man made the putt. Did this give the hecklers even more fuel? Or was it the heckler screaming vulgarity at Rory Saturday on every hole?

Apparently it did. So much so, the PGA of America published this statement before the singles matches yesterday....

"Rooted in the ideals of sportsmanship and international goodwill, the Ryder Cup is about having a spirited passion for not only the victory, but for the game of golf. We are encouraging all spectators on Sunday to be passionate and support their team in a way that is respectful to those around them, the players, and the Ryder Cup.

"Our security staff will continue to enforce a zero tolerance policy, removing from the course any fans who are disruptive in any way, including the use of vulgar or profane language directed at the players. We look forward to a strong finish today that reflects the spirit of the Ryder Cup and provides a positive experience for all."

Sergio even gave an interview where he cited "I feel ashamed for my American girlfriend."

Rory's heckler was booted. Others were booted following the PGA's statement yesterday. Yes, you could see a decided behavior change from the fans yesterday. At the same time you have perhaps the most emotionally charged match in golf history occurring between Patrick Reed and Rory to lead off America's charge to victory yesterday.

Where does it end? How does it change? Personally? I actually take offense at The Euros attempting to put an asterisk on American victories in The Cup due to hostile playing conditions. But I also know The Euros are our guests and they do deserve to be treated with the utmost respect during the matches.

http://www.independent.ie/…/i-feel-ashamed-for-my-girlfrien…


Brad Patterson
PGA



Thanks Brad for those comments which really hit the nail on the head.

Way to go Lads!