The Times? They are A-Changin’.

Walking around on Wednesday at TPC Sawgrass for the Creator Classic was an out of body experience, and not just because the golf course is a masterful work of art. Of course being at such an iconic venue lends itself to being a real pinch-me moment, but walking around as the creators were on the course, and seeing just how many kids were out there following their favorite golfers, asking for autographs left and right, was what really struck me.

The scene transported me back to my first time at a professional golf tournament. I was only eight years old, dragging my dad around Kingsmill in Williamsburg, Virginia, positively awestruck at my heroes right in front of me. Lorena Ochoa, Michelle Wie, Paula Creamer—all superstars to me and I got to see them in action. It was the best day of my life and a memory I’ll forever cherish.

Flash forward 17 years, and I’m witnessing kids have that exact same moment of awe. You can see it in their eyes—the sparkle, the wonderment. They’re excited to have their favorite golfer—a creator—acknowledge them, even if it’s just a quick wave in passing.

Following each of the groups, I got to chat with kid patrons and get their take on the experience—why they showed up, and for who, specifically.

I met two elementary-school aged girls who traveled 4 hours and some change to TPC Sawgrass just for the Creator Classic. One of the sisters was on crutches, trucking along like a real trooper in hopes to see the Bryan Bros and Grant Horvat IRL.

They told me they watch every video because it’s relatable to them, and they see themselves in what these creators produce. Having fun with their friends and playing the game they love.

With each pair and group of kids I chatted to, their stories all echoed the same sentiment—this is golf to them. It doesn't look the same for them, because this is more snackable and what they can share along with their friends. They can stop and start and video whenever they want because they're probably about to go outside and try that trick shot they just saw.

That’s exactly why creators and the Creator Classic are healthy for the game. It’s about giving a new experience to something we all know and love but through a new lens, meeting the next generation where they are.

The kids are dialed and I think we need to take a page out of their book.