Brooklynjay, thanks for the advice. I really don't feel that I mustn't have any other options in my life to qualify my passion to be a pro. Also, my schooling is important to me because I feel that having a financial safety net in life is smart, especially if you want to chase a dream that has no definite financial security. With as few tournaments that are worth going to, it's safe to say that one could do both professions. It would be tight with vacation time, practice and being and entry level employee.
Sarah, thank you for the advice. I understand the premise, but I do not agree with holding back information as it can be viewed by sponosrs as a severe issue on many levels. I believe that not publishing the prize money is a huge mistake. Young women like myself are not getting all of the information. Many that could bring something to the party, and possibly even advance the WPBA years from now, are turning away because they feel like that are being mislead, non informed, and kept as an outsider by not having open access knowledge that is available in every other profrssional sport. I feel that this is the perfect plan if the current WPBA stars want to be the stars 15-20 years frm now. Promoting the sport should be a concern and the WPBA should try to find the right formula that permits the free exchange of knowledge and information. Otherwise, years from now, the mistakes they're making today will be felt.
I want to make it clear that I didn't say that I wouldn't play tournaments. My attitude is clear. For now, I'm flying under the radar and by not going to tournaments, I could do what I love and actually make more money doing it. Doing it in a professional tournament would be a bonus. If I have to match up to make decent money, so be it. Tournaments and a chance to earn a living outside of making a ball is what a lot of players strive for. If you think that this is incorrect, ask them. They all want a check for doing something that doesn't involve making a ball and possible doing something as simple as having their picture on a package containing the product that they endorse.
As far as what I can do besides stand beside a product, pose for a picture, or wear a logo in a tournament is market? I'm not a single-talented individual asking to some company to fill my hat with spare change. I'm capable of developing a marketing plan that could lead a company to success. If I decide to play tournaments, I would like to be able track my performance so that a company can actually see what I'm bringing to the table.
In short, I want to decide if I want to play professionally. Having everything make sense financially is hard without published payouts. Making a decision to go professional might be the silliest thing a young woman can do unless it's her only option. I feel that the WPBA is shooting themself in the foot and can't see the forrest through the trees.
thanks for letting me speak my mind,
Dezi |