Posted on 08/26/2008 10:27:41 AM PDT by BGHater
The world's best female golf players will no longer be required just to be able to drive and chip, but also to speak English, according to a report.
Golfweek reported on its website that the LPGA informed players last week that those on the tour at least two years will have to pass an oral evaluation of their ability to speak English.
Those who fail would have their memberships suspended, though LPGA deputy commissioner Libba Galloway told Golfweek that players would be helped out in such a scenario.
“Hopefully what we’re talking about is something that will not happen,” said Galloway. “If it does, we wouldn’t just say, ‘Come back next year.’ What we would do is work with them on where they fell short, provide them the resources they need, the tutoring … and when we feel like they need to be evaluated again, we would evaluate.”
The tour has taken on a more international flavour in recent years, particularly from Asia. Of the 121 international players, 45 are from South Korea.
As that process has developed, the tour has reportedly told players that a minimum proficiency in English would be needed at some point, particularly because of the many obligations and events with the LPGA's corporate sponsors.
“We agree we should speak some English,” said Se Ri Pak, who helped blaze the trail for many South Korean pros. “We play so good overall. When you win, you should give your speech in English. … Mostly what comes out is nerves. Totally different language in front of camera. You’re excited and not thinking in English.”
Evaluations will begin at some point in 2009, the magazine reported.
PGA champ Angel Cabrera, from Argentina, seems to have a very weak command of English if any. So I wonder whether the PGA has a similar rule.
A good start. Perhaps McDonald’s will follow suit for its employees.
This edict will last until the first lawsuit is initiated. Foolish, foolish waste of time in our “you can do no wrong except if you are a white middle aged male”
You watch the ACLU will jump all over this.
You’re right. This will backfire. Who cares if they speak english or not. If they can play at the high level required, that should be good enough. English only should be for government business etc. Not sports.
Very good!
Then they will be such cunning linguists.
They are a private entity and can set their own rules.
Now THAT right there is funny!
Very true. I agree they should be ALLOWED to do it. I just don’t think it’s a good idea. Is it even legal? I’m sure the ACLU will scream discrimination and probably win.
You are probably correct. Pity.
Money talks, they could make them wear bikinis if it would sell more tickets.
I wonder why they want to make this rule? If they don’t speak English well or at all, does it affect their tournaments or operations?
See how it goes, I would expect a lawsuit based on this. And I think they would have a tough time defending the action in court.
“You’re right. This will backfire. Who cares if they speak english or not. If they can play at the high level required, that should be good enough. English only should be for government business etc. Not sports.”
It’s not sports, it’s a business. Since it’s a business, each of the members of this organization is an ambassador of their business. If one of the members acheives a measure of stardom, and can’t speak to the customer base, that’s a problem. If the leading money winner can’t give interviews without an interpreter, that’s a problem.
This very much like a business owner requiring the marketing department hire English speaking people only. It’s in the business’ best interest.
Basaball . . . . . been vedy vedy good . . . to me.
Finally,we found a way to be the South Koreans. Brilliant!
Indeed...this has nothing to do with playing ability. Without the corporate sponsors the LPGA and numerous other pro sports would disappear.
Wadju aks THAT woman that she has that look on her face?
Allow me to translate that to more of an Asian tongue... You, pobably corrr-ek
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