almostGOLF Introduces New "Off-Course" Training Products

February 2004 - In an effort to infuse a blast of new energy and interest into the recreation of golf nationwide, almostGOLF is introducing an entirely new "off-course" ball and set of training programs for juniors and adults that bring the sport off the fairways and safely into backyards and parks everywhere. And those programs are even being introduced in an increasing number of grade schools, high schools & universities nationwide.

What is almostGOLF?
One-quarter the weight of a regulation ball (13.5 grams), the almostGOLF Trainer ball responds to the golf swing with a limited-distance, true-ball flight and feel, sailing over 100 yards with remarkable accuracy. almostGOLF ball's unique composition safely allows for golf play in typically uncommon venues, without the dangers of hitting regulation golf balls. The ball's patent-pending technology enables golfers to perform fades, draws and backspins similar to a real ball, but provides the added benefit of being able to play safely off-course in parks, schoolyards, and even backyards. Casual or serious golfers can now effectively work on their game without leaving their own neighborhoods. "Every golfer can and should train every day, no matter where they are," said almostGOLF founder Rob Peterson. "The almostGOLF Ball now makes that possible."

Junior/School Training Programs
almostGOLF's ball is already gaining national attention in schools nationwide. Because of its unique qualities, it is the perfect weight for a junior's size, weight and strength. Since production began in July 2003, hundreds of elementary, middle and high schools have adopted the almostGOLF trainer in school Physical Education classes and after-school golf programs. With almostGOLF, instructors are able to overcome the safety risks of using real golf balls and make golf accessible to every child wanting to learn. Among the success stories is the North Florida PGA's comprehensive junior golf program's "Swing Into School," which is currently engaging 96 schools and over 10,000 students in exposure to golf. Additionally, twelve Wisconsin elementary schools (K-6) are involved in a similar program, introducing golf to more than 7,500 students.

"Last year baseball had a grassroots $3.8 billion feeder sport to their industry called softball -- golf had nothing," says almostGOLF CEO Tom Melberg, "With our latest efforts, almostGOLF will become the 'softball of golf' and the sport will benefit greatly because of it."

Unprofessional AlmostGolfers Tour
The company is also launching the Unprofessional AlmostGolfers Tour, where golfers play over, around and through some of the country's most prestigious college campuses and corporate parks. In fact, the company is working with the Collegiate Golf Alliance setting up "hole-in-one" competitions at 50 college campuses nationwide to help grow each school's golf program. The company plans to expand distribution into Europe and Japan and launch the Unprofessional AlmostGolfers Tour soon.

Golf Market Potential
almostGOLF's announcement is also great news for retailers as the ball creates a whole new market segment. The company contends that, as the "softball of golf," the almostGOLF trainer actually complements real golf ball sales and will convert disappointed 'blown plastic ball' users into return-consumers.

Adding A Pro To The almostGOLF Team
Driving up their already rising image in the golf accessory industry, almostGOLF has announced the signing of Champions Tour Winner Bob Duval as a spokesman for almostGOLF. "The almostGOLF trainer ball will improve your game - period," says Duval, who will be the experienced voice behind the almostGOLF Trainer and also appear as co-host in the company's instructional video DVD/video launch. "How To Play Golf Off-Course - And Not Get Arrested" is the industry's first video on off-course golf and covers essentials of off-course etiquette, play and practice, including humorous segments like "How to play out of the rough by not mowing your front lawn" and "How to play the elevated tee by using your neighbor's balcony."

Almost Golf products range in price from $12 per dozen to $49 for a bucket of 5 dozen balls and are available at stores like Edwin Watts, Golf Smith, Golf Galaxy, Roger Dunn, Galyans, online at: www.almostGOLF.com or by calling 800.998.1077.