Nike Golf announces signing of former college all-star Lovemark

BEAVERTON, Ore. -- Nike Golf has announced the addition of former University of Southern California star Jamie Lovemark to its Tour staff. Lovemark, who made his debut as a Nike athlete at the recent RBC Canadian Open, has entered an exclusive multi-year relationship with Nike Golf that includes clubs, ball, glove, bag, footwear, apparel, headwear and accessories.

"Jamie is a solid player who has all of the ingredients to be a force on the PGA Tour," said Kel Devlin, Global Sports Marketing Director for Nike Golf. "He's such a natural athlete and is a terrific ball striker. We are confident that he will shine as a Nike Golf athlete and are thrilled to have him join the Nike family."

Lovemark, from Rancho Santa Fe, Calif., enjoyed an illustrious collegiate career at USC, having won the 2007 NCAA Championship and being named the 2007 National Player of the Year and National Freshman of the Year. In the 2007 Walker Cup, the 21-year-old was undefeated with a 3-0 record. Formerly ranked No. 1 in World Amateur Golf ranking, Lovemark won the 2005 Western Amateur at the age of 17.

"I'm a big fan of Nike and am inspired by all that the company stands for," said Lovemark. "They really care about the athletes and are passionate about developing products that help us get better. I'm impressed by the work they do and how they do it. They listen to the athlete and then turn around and create great products. It is such an inspirational company and I'm proud to be a part of the team."

As an amateur, Lovemark competed in eight PGA Tour events and made the cut in five of them. His best finish was tied for 39th at the 2007 Buick Invitational. He also competed in three Nationwide Tour events, where his best finish was second after losing in a playoff at the 2007 Showdown at Somerby in Rochester, Minn.

Lovemark's Nike Golf arsenal will include, the SQ Sumo 5000 driver, SQ2 3-wood (13-degree) Fairway Wood, the Victory Red Forged TW blades (3- PW) and the 52-degree, 56-degree and 60-degree Victory Red Forged wedges. Lovemark also will play with the Nike ONE Tour D ball.