I think you guys are over estimating the ROI of staffers. I know from experience that there is a lot of talented bowlers on staff who are terrible representatives and do little to no evangelizing of their equipment. Yes, I am on the regional program with DT but I also do a lot for the company. I aggressively promote the equipment online and offline. My pro shop is now selling more DT than he ever has, and more than a few bigger brands. And it isn't because the equipment is on television, it is because when people ask what a good ball would be, he RECOMMENDS it!
What most bowlers do not understand is that there is MUCH MORE value in catering to INFLUENCERS on ball buyers than in raw talent. Quality equipment will make it on television, always. A pro bowler will throw what will help them win. Period.
I do not think signing WRW is a good decision, especially not if it will put stress on the DT's finances. In fact I think it is better that he throws the equipment as a free agent, it proves he uses it because it WORKS, not because he has to. Norm Duke is in the same situation. He pretty much switched between Track and DT last year, one guess who he won with.
DT's key tour staffer, Steve Hoskins, has done amazing things to promote the gear on tour. You folks don't see that. I don't know about WRW work ethics, but I can vouch for Hoskins... he works hard to get the equipment in the right bowler's hands. The fact that Phil is delivering an amazing product only makes his job easier.
Tony Melendez
tony@allBowling.com
Edited on 5/1/2003 10:04 AM