Good Good Golf, the popular golf‑content brand that grew from a YouTube channel into a major media and merchandise operation, confirmed that its chief executive officer, Matt Kendrick, and its president, Joe Flannery, are leaving the company. The departures come after a widely condemned advertisement for a new Callaway driver showed a man pushing a woman to the ground and telling her not to touch the club.
Local impact and interim leadership
The company’s internal memo, first reported by Business Insider, named co‑founder Nahid Giga as interim CEO. Good Good Golf, which is based in Austin, Texas, has been a significant presence in the local sports‑media scene, producing original shows, apparel, and a roster of eight men and four women who compete in golf challenges.
Controversy over the ad
The video, posted on August 20, was intended as a parody of the horror film “Obsession,” but the depiction of a man physically shoving a woman sparked immediate and relentless criticism on social media. The clip was removed the same day, yet it continued to circulate, prompting apologies from both Good Good Golf and Callaway that failed to quell the outcry.
Industry response
Brian Rolapp, CEO of the PGA Tour, expressed disappointment, emphasizing the Tour’s belief that golf should foster a welcoming environment for all participants. In response to the controversy, Good Good Golf withdrew its title sponsorship of a new PGA Tour event scheduled to be held in Austin this fall, though the tournament will proceed without the company’s backing.
Callaway also terminated its relationship with Good Good Golf. Major retailers, including Golf Galaxy and its parent Dick’s Sporting Goods, removed the brand’s merchandise from shelves, and the Golf Channel canceled a new season of its “Big Break” reality series that had partnered with Good Good.
Founder’s reaction
Garrett Clark, a co‑founder of Good Good Golf and the man featured in the disputed scene, posted an eight‑minute video condemning the commercial as “the worst ad known to man” and stating it does not reflect the company’s values.
What’s next?
With Giga stepping in as interim CEO, Good Good Golf faces the challenge of rebuilding its reputation and restoring relationships with sponsors, retailers, and the broader golf community. The company’s future direction will be closely watched by fans and industry partners alike.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
