Masters Foundation, EA Sports Partnership All About The Children

The Twittersphere is erupting over the news of Augusta National jumping into bed an international partnership with Tiger and EA Sports to grow the game around the world. But the more interesting news for me is this new foundation and its mission to grow the game around the world even though the place growth is most needed would be here in the good ole USA. Where, it should be noted, the tax benefits of this foundation will be most enjoyed!

From Jason Sobel's ESPN.com story:

"The establishment of the Masters Tournament Foundation is central to fulfilling our responsibility of supporting the game's continuous growth around the world," Payne said in a statement. "This tradition, shaped by our founders Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts, is the cornerstone of the Foundation's important commitment."

The Masters will receive proceeds from the EA Sports game, and will direct 100 percent of that money to its newly formed foundation.

"Our desire to help grow the game of golf throughout the world is sincere, and it is that commitment that first led us to EA Sports more than three years ago," Payne said. "EA Sports, Tiger Woods and the PGA Tour have developed an extremely successful franchise that responds to one of the popular entertainment choices of kids today.

"We hope our inclusion will foster an appreciation for the history and traditions of the Masters and inspire the next generation of golfers. Equally important is its ability to help further the mission of the Masters Tournament Foundation with the entirety of its proceeds."

I also find it quite moving that Payne has put his little outburst over "our hero" behind him in the best interest of the children.