In Joe Hardy's mind, John Daly is his kind of guy.
And as of Wednesday, that mindset became a reality when Hardy's company, 84 Lumber, signed Daly to become a corporate spokesman.
"John Daly is one of the more recognized figures on the PGA Tour and is very popular among our many customers in the professional contracting business," Hardy said in a statement. "I've personally seen John interact well with people from all walks of life and believe he will be very effective as a representative for us."
Daly signed a three-year deal with Hardy, and 84 Lumber has an option to extend the contract to a fourth year. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Daly, who lost 5 and 4 to Rocco Mediate in the first round of the World Golf Championship Match Play event Wednesday, said in a statement, "I have great respect for Mr. Hardy both personally and as a businessman. I greatly appreciate his confidence in me to be an effective spokesman for his companies."
The relationship between Daly and Hardy evolved from Daly's appearances in the Mystic Rock Pro-Ams at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort & Spa, which is owned by Hardy and his daughter, Maggie Hardy-Magerko.
"I think when a guy like Joe Hardy is putting his logo on someone, it's about more than friendship," said Bud Martin, Daly's Pittsburgh-based agent. "He sees in John a guy who's very popular guy who can make an impact with his clients."
Daly will promote 84 Lumber Company on the PGA Tour through display of the company logo on his golf equipment and clothing. He'll also make appearances at Mystic Rock, The Links and the Golf Academy at Nemacolin Woodlands in conjunction with other events.
"He's definitely working as hard as I've ever seen him work on the golf course," Martin said. "And, at the same time, he's as much at peace as I've ever seen him off the course."
Daly is off to a fast start on the PGA Tour, having a tie for fourth and a top 25 finish in two events prior to the Match Play. Not surprisingly, he's leading the Tour in driving distance.
