Danny Fritz, the sharp dressed co-managing director of IMG Canada, whose clients included Mike Weir, Matt Hill and Eugene Wong, is leaving his role.
Reached on his cell phone, Fritz confirmed the move. He’s starting his own agency, though he says that’s early going and isn’t sure what form it will take.
“I joined IMG in 2006 and quickly matured through the IMG system,” says Fritz, who previously worked with the Canadian Junior Golf Association. “And when you look at my role at the company in Canada I’m not sure there was a lot more for me to do. I’m very entrepreneurial and want to challenge myself and grow. I think the timing is right.”
Three years ago Fritz took over from Brad Pelletier, who left the organization and entered the real estate space. Pelletier now runs Predator Ridge in Vernon, BC. Fritz had been hired by Pelletier to help out IMG golf division in Canada, as well as assist in running events. At the time IMG had a Legends of Golf event, as well as its Telus Skins game, and athletes that included Lorie Kane, Weir, and Stephen Ames. Ames left for Wasserman Media when former IMG agent Chris Armstrong departed to create that company’s Canadian agency.
Fritz says he’s still determining what his new agency will do, though he expects to be in the representation space, as well as the event management side. Under Fritz IMG managed to keep its Telus Skins game afloat for several years longer than expected through a partnership with Nike Golf. The event seems to have finally run its course. Fritz was also integrally involved with the company’s fashion portfolio, though he says he doesn’t expect to pursue that in his new venture.
Though today is his last day at IMG, he said he’s working with the company to determine what is to happen with his golf clients. Weir has been through several agents over the years, though as his play has slipped his earning potential on and off the course has likely diminished as well. Still Fritz said there’s been renewed interest in Weir with the anniversary of his Masters win bringing increased exposure. Wong is a blue chip golf prospect, but there’s no guarantees of success, while Hill is making progress on the Web.com Tour.
“IMG is a great company and I learned a lot here,” says Fritz. “But this made sense for me at this time.”
Dave Haggith, a spokesman for IMG, said the company expects to work with Fritz in some capacity going forward, which is a change from some other departures from the company, which have been quite acrimonious.
“IMG wishes Danny all the best in his new pursuits, and not only do we appreciate his many contributions to our success over the years, but we look forward to collaborating with him in the future. We enjoy a close working relationship that will continue for many years,” Haggith said.
