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In the world of professional sports, few things are as personal as an athlete’s equipment. Take George Kittle, the standout tight end for the San Francisco 49ers—his relationship with a specific golf driver goes beyond just performance. At a recent event called Tight End University in Nashville, Kittle opened up about his unwavering loyalty to a vintage club that’s become as much a part of him as his football gear.
Building camaraderie beyond the field
The final day of Tight End University took a refreshing turn when Kittle and his fellow co-founders, Travis Kelce and Greg Olsen, decided to hit the golf course instead of sticking to traditional drills.
With the sweltering Nashville summer in full swing, Kittle said, “We didn’t want to put guys on the field for two consecutive days under this heat, so we thought golf would be a great way to bring everyone together. Everyone loves golf.” Who wouldn’t appreciate a day on the green with friends?
As the sun beat down, the atmosphere on the golf course was filled with camaraderie and relaxation.
Kittle, Kelce, Olsen, and coach Jon Embree were ready to kick back and enjoy a much-needed break from the intense competition of football. However, Kittle’s choice of golf equipment was about to take center stage.
A unique driver with a personal history
What really sets Kittle apart is his choice of driver—the Nike SasQuatch Sumo2, affectionately known as the “Sasquatch.” This vintage club, with its unique square face and bold black-and-yellow finish, is no longer in production, yet Kittle has stuck with it since 2014.
While modern golf technology has come a long way, Kittle finds comfort and a sense of nostalgia in this classic driver.
Reflecting on his college days, Kittle admitted, “I was a really, really bad golfer—not saying I’m good now, but I was really bad in college.” He shared a fun story about how he came to own the Sasquatch: a teammate had a collection of high-end clubs, and after a rough outing, he tossed the Sasquatch into the woods.
Kittle, ever the opportunist, retrieved the club and made it his own. “It works for me, and that’s all that really matters,” he declared. Isn’t it funny how sometimes, the best finds are the ones we least expect?
The sound of nostalgia and connection
The sound of the Sasquatch is truly one-of-a-kind, often compared to an aluminum bat rather than the subdued thud of today’s drivers. Kittle enjoys the noise it makes, describing it as “cleansing.” He reminisced about the joy the club brings him, likening it to the carefree days of playing tee-ball as a kid. “Is there anything better? Just going out there with the boys and hitting the ball around?” For Kittle, golf is about the experience, not the score.
Knowing how rare his beloved driver is, Kittle took some smart steps to ensure he wouldn’t face a future without it. “I found six of them on eBay and bought them all,” he said with a grin. This proactive approach mirrors the mindset of an athlete who understands the value of reliability, both in sports and in life.
Prioritizing fun and fellowship
While Kittle’s competitive spirit shines on the football field, his approach to golf is refreshingly laid-back. The golf outing was all about fostering enjoyment and relaxation among peers before the grind of NFL training camp kicks in. “Overall, just a fun time to get out there, have a couple of Bud Lights, and enjoy yourself,” Kittle said, highlighting how vital camaraderie is in sports.
Ultimately, Kittle’s attachment to his old driver serves as a poignant reminder of the personal stories and connections athletes carry with them, both on and off the field. In a profession driven by performance and results, it’s the sentimental value of experiences and memories that often resonates the most. So, the next time you see an athlete, remember: there’s always a story behind their gear.
