Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson To Lead Ryder Cup Task Force

By Michael Terrill @MichaelTerrill on October 14, 2014

The United States has failed miserably in the Ryder Cup the past few years, with the most recent showing being one of the more embarrassing. For that reason, U.S. captain Tom Watson is out and a new “Ryder Cup Task Force” has been put into place to ensure future success for Team USA.

The 11-person task force will include superstar golfer Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Rickie Fowler, Jim Furyk, Steve Stricker, Raymond Floyd, Tom Lehman, 2012 U.S. captain Davis Love III and three PGA of America executives. The purpose of the task force will be to “examine the US Ryder Cup process, from how captains and players are selected to the schedule of events and how the team prepares for the matches,” according to a report by the Golf Channel.

It is no secret that golfers from the U.S. have not been pleased with their personal performances in the Ryder Cup or the team as a whole. Winning just twice in 15 years will have that effect on people.

The hope is that by examining the process that leads up to the Ryder Cup, the U.S. will have an advantage when they step on the course in 2016. Of course, it is not just about what happens two years from now. It is about changing the landscape for the next few decades. There is no reason why the U.S. cannot compete at a high level, and more importantly, bring home the Ryder Cup Trophy on a more consistent basis.

“I think this is a great step by the PGA to accomplish what we all want – to win the Ryder Cup,” Woods said, according to CBS Sports. “The Ryder Cup is very important to every player who has the honor to represent his country. I’m excited to be part of this group.”

The group that consists of legendary golfers will either succeed or fail miserably. It will all come down to how they handle their given roles within the task force. The good news is the upside is tremendous, and the future certainly looks bright for the Americans.

Michael Terrill is a Senior Writer for Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @MichaelTerrill, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.