When Chris Smeal first launched Future Champions Golf (FCG) in 2004, his goal was simple: to help kids fall in love with the game of golf. Today, FCG has evolved into one of the largest junior golf tours globally, hosting over 130 tournaments across 30 countries. Learn how Smeal built the FCG Brand. But Smeal’s journey from a small business with a local player base to an international powerhouse was far from easy.
The Early Days: A Leap of Faith
In the early 2000s, Smeal saw a gap in junior golf. His passion for teaching kids the game quickly gained him a loyal following. However, as he delved deeper into the sport, Smeal became frustrated with the existing junior golf tournament landscape. “In 2007, I knew it could be better,” he recalls. “There needed to be more passion behind the events to inspire youth to pursue the game further.”
This frustration ignited the creation of the FCG Tour, a venture designed to offer young golfers more opportunities to compete at a higher level. Word-of-mouth marketing and grassroots efforts, such as setting up at local golf expos and even a hockey game, helped Smeal attract new players. The desire to create something better for the kids propelled him forward, despite the challenges of building a business before the age of social media.
Key Decisions That Changed the Game
One of the most pivotal moments in FCG’s growth came when Smeal made a strategic decision that would catapult the brand: hiring the right team. “Everyone who works at FCG Tour does it because they like helping the kids,” he shares. “That’s what makes the difference.”
Another key turning point was when Smeal transformed the FCG World Championship into a qualification-based event. In one year, the size of the event doubled, growing from 250 players to 500. By 2025, it is expected to draw over 900 players. These milestones were not just achievements but proof that Smeal’s vision was resonating globally.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
When asked what advice he would give to aspiring entrepreneurs, Smeal emphasizes the importance of passion and visibility. “Let everyone know who you are and what you are doing, and why,” he advises. “Make it obvious to everyone what you are passionate about and be really, really good at it. If people enjoy your product or service, they will be fans for a long time. The more you give, the more you get back.”
For Smeal, the journey has always been about more than just building a business—it’s about impacting the lives of the young athletes he works with. His approach to leadership centers around passion, hard work, and a genuine desire to see others succeed.