Orlando, Florida – February 9, 2024, GolfPass, the premier golf lifestyle platform, is set to make waves at the 2024 Jim Thorpe Invitational by announcing an extraordinary Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) offering for all collegiate players participating in the event. 

This groundbreaking initiative adds a new dimension to the highly anticipated competition, featuring exceptionally talented minority collegiate players from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs). Scheduled for February 17-18, 2024, in the vibrant city of Orlando, Florida, the Jim Thorpe Invitational promises to be a historic event, and GolfPass is thrilled to play a pivotal role in this momentous occasion. Building on the excitement, GolfPass has also confirmed the capture of the event on its streaming platform, which boasts a massive membership of over 2 million golf enthusiasts. 

This dual announcement reflects GolfPass’s commitment to supporting and empowering collegiate athletes, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. The NIL offering is designed to provide these talented players with a unique opportunity to benefit from their own brand and image while participating in this prestigious golf event. “GolfPass is proud to be at the forefront of innovation and inclusivity within the golf community. We recognize the incredible talent and potential of collegiate players, and our historic NIL offering aims to empower them on their journey,” said Ron Newsome, Director, Diversity and Community Impact at NBC Sports. “This opportunity aligns with our values of promoting diversity and excellence in the world of golf via our Better Together Initiative. We are excited to not only capture the event on our platform, but also contribute to the growth and success of these exceptional athletes.” 

In addition to the financial benefits of the NIL offering, GolfPass’s streaming platform will provide a global stage for the Jim Thorpe Invitational. With millions of members tuning in, the event will receive unprecedented exposure, highlighting the skills and sportsmanship of the collegiate players and showcasing the diversity within the world of golf. 

For further information, please contact: Erin Grier, erin@uga.golf

About GolfPass: GolfPass is a leading golf lifestyle platform that offers a unique combination of exclusive content, benefits, and community for golf enthusiasts. With a rapidly growing membership base, GolfPass is dedicated to providing golfers with unparalleled access to the best in golf. 

About the Jim Thorpe Invitational: The 2024 Jim Thorpe Invitational is offering an unprecedented opportunity to Elite Junior Minority Golfers, Collegiate Athletes, and Tour Professionals from across the US, Canada, Caribbean, and Africa to compete in this signature 36 Hole Tournament. Participants will compete in two rounds of high level golf against on the Greg Norman designed Championsgate Golf Courses in Orlando, Fl.

United Golfers Association (UGA) [Founded in 1925] is a 501C3 – non-profit organization that is committed to increasing the introduction, development and advancement of Black youth and adults within the sport of golf. The UGA Developmental Golf Academy will provide these golfers with the resources and direction to cultivate their passion for the sport as competitors and professionals in the industry. The UGA Golf Academy is designed to prepare them mentally, physically and professionally to compete as Future Tour Players and Golf Professionals throughout the world.Many talented golfers such as Ted Rhodes, Bill Spiller, Pete Brown, Renee Powell, Lee Elder, Charlie Sifford, Willie Brown Jr, Althea Gibson, Jim Thorpe, Jim Dent, Ann Gregory, and Howard Wheeler started their careers as members of UGA.