This year's golf season is in full swing with the completion of 2009's first major in Augusta. Angel Cabrera donned the coveted green jacket for his playoff win over Chad Campbell and Kenny Perry. The event was stellar television viewing as Tiger and Phil erupted for many birdies and eagles an hour or so ahead of the final pairing.

Golf's next official Major will be the US Open at Bethpage in June, but one could argue that the next gathering of the world's best players will be at the PLAYERS Championship in Ponte Vedra May 7-10 at the famous TPC Stadium course. The four majors in golf are steeped in history, but the strongest field of the year is always the Players Championship.

Much like the year's first major, The Masters, the Players Championship is contested annually on the same venue on the venerable TPC Stadium course with its famous island green par 3 17th hole. Noted golf course designer Pete Dye sculpted this course out of the swampland of northeast Florida creating a layout that is the probably the most recognized venue in all of golf. Much of that recognition is due to the penultimate hole that Pete's wife, Alice, actually conceived, but I have played the other 17 holes and boy are they good.

The TPC Stadium was the first course constructed with perimeter mounding designed to enhance spectator viewing. This design feature has since been replicated at other TPC venues around the country leading to successful host venues for PGA Tour events. When playing the course without the tournament fixtures in place, the mounding looks like a moonscape but come tournament time it is packed with spectators all of whom have a great view.

The Players Championship field is large but not weakened with amateurs, club professionals or mini tour players who managed to squeak out an invitation or Monday qualified. This event only has the best players from the PGA Tour playing for the largest purse on a course all golf fans know and love.

It all combines for great theater and is a must see for all golf fans. Make plans to attend today.