Tom Gocke has joined Utah-based OGIO's golf division as its national sales manager / Western Region. The announcement was made today by OGIO executive vice president Harlan Gardiner.
Gocke, the director of golf for Bite Footwear for the past eight years, will oversee Ogio sales representatives and develop retail partnerships in the western United States. The former Nike Tour professional golfer and celebrity golf teacher will work from Ogio's Bluffdale headquarters as well as his existing office in Sammamish, Washington. He joins OGIO National Sales Manager Andy Gilkison, who continues to manage the Eastern states and also reports to Gardiner.
“Tom is everything OGIO wants in a golf manager: he's innovative, he's a leader, and he absolutely loves the game,” explains Gardiner. “The OGIO brand – its technology and innovation – is the standard against which all other bags are now measured. It is paramount that we create the strongest, most respected team the industry knows. Tom's ability to get things done, combined with his exceptional relationships with many of our retail partners and industry reps, fits seamlessly with our growing golf division.”
While at Bite Footwear, Gocke was responsible for developing and managing regional managers and independent sales teams. In addition, he oversaw the company's marketing and player development program, and led the initiative to distribute LPGA- licensed apparel in North America.
“I've watched OGIO grow into a phenomenal golf brand in recent years,” explains Gocke. “When the opportunity arose to join this team, I jumped at the chance to help do for golf what the OGIO brand has done in the action sports market: appeal to the younger athlete. I'm all about growing the game, and OGIO is the perfect brand to make it happen!”
