The 2012 PGA Championship tournament needs about 3,000 volunteers to fill a variety of roles next August, including transporting tournament players to the course. PGA officials said that 1,700 of the slots have been filled. The 2012 PGA Championship expects to need about 3,000 volunteers to help it run the Charleston area’s first major golf tournament next August, but those slots are almost as popular as tickets have been, with officials reporting that 1,700 volunteer posts have been taken. Those who want to play a behind-the-scenes role at the 2012 tournament can still apply online. The championship, to be held Aug. 6-12 at The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, will need volunteers to serve on more than 40 committees to help with a variety of tasks on the course, including contestant transportation, leaderboards, merchandise operations, media center registration and marshals, among others. “The volunteer program is a great opportunity for people to get involved in the championship and to ultimately contribute to its success,” said Brett Sterba, director of the 2012 PGA Championship. “We plan to introduce a few new enhancements specifically for the 2012 volunteer program at Kiawah — all with the volunteers’ overall experience as the top priority.” Volunteers must pay a $217 fee, which covers the cost of a volunteer uniform for the event, but there are other perks, as well. Volunteers, who are asked to work a minimum of 16 hours, get access to the tournament site for all seven days of the event. Volunteers also get meal vouchers; off-site parking with shuttle service; discounted rates, including up to three guests, at all five of Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s courses; and more. To sign up as a volunteer or to get more information, go online. Committee assignments will be made on a first-come, first-served basis. The 2012 PGA Championship tournament is expected to bring more than 50,000 visitors and a local economic impact of $92 million, according to a College of Charleston School of Business study. As of last month, the tournament had sold 94% of its tickets and 70% of corporate hospitality packages. Tickets went on sale for a limited time late last year and will be available again after this summer’s PGA Championship in Atlanta.

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