Full Swing’s TGL Tech Showing Early Promise
Full Swing Golf’s technology is proving to be a game-changer for TGL after three weeks of competition. The company’s vice president of product innovation, Evan El-Saden, shared his insights at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando.
“We have to be honest with ourselves,” El-Saden said. “From our standpoint, it’s been an overwhelming success for our company. I think it’s overall gone over really well.”
While Full Swing is known for their high-end simulators, it’s their radar-based launch monitor – the Full Swing Kit – that’s powering TGL’s innovative format. The Kit measures 16 data points and retails for $4,999, making it competitively priced in the launch monitor market.
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TGL’s setup at SoFi Center uses 18 strategically placed Kits to capture crucial data like spin rate and ball speed. This information feeds into Toptracer technology to create the ball flight visualization viewers see on screen.
Business Impact and Growing the Game
The league’s launch has already boosted Full Swing’s business. “When you see interests go up, conversions go up… it’s just the benefit of being part of it,” El-Saden explained. “We’re hoping to see interest from a new demo watching and being enthused to play golf.”
What makes TGL’s setup unique is its custom development for stadium golf. Players hit from 21 and 35 yards from an IMAX-sized screen, requiring specialized tracking solutions. The company worked with architects like the Nicklaus Group to create course designs that translate to this new format.
Technology and Adaptation
One of the most innovative features is the virtual green technology. The system can create endless putting scenarios within a 125-foot diameter, challenging players to adapt to new conditions each time.
Some players are adjusting better than others. “The teams who have been practicing have performed and posted the results,” El-Saden noted. “Justin Thomas seemed very comfortable in the environment” during recent play.
Addressing Tiger Woods’ notable 101-yard wedge shot that flew 131 yards, El-Saden suggested it’s mainly about adaptation. “These guys are so good. They’ll adapt. Are they willing to adapt? I don’t even think it’s a conscious thing. I think they’ve got to really make a concerted effort to understand what they need to do to be successful.”
The system can simulate various conditions including wind and green speeds, though they’re being introduced gradually to help players adjust. It’s all about finding the right balance between innovation and playability as the league continues to evolve.
Looking ahead, El-Saden believes player comfort will improve as they get more reps in the unique environment. The technology is there – now it’s just a matter of the world’s best golfers embracing this new way to compete.
