John Daly: Extreme Makeover - Golf Edition

What a difference a year makes! At this time last year, people were wondering what had become of John Daly. Missing in action for months by that point, the big blond golfer (known to his friends simply as "Lion") had not played a round in any American tournament during the last months of the previous season, or the first two months of that new season. Worse, he didn't appear to be scheduled to play anywhere. His website seemed all but abandoned; his personal message on it had not been updated in a long while and all the news being written about him seemed bad. Still without a tour card and playing mostly in Europe, more than one person had surmised that the two-time major champion had reached the end of his career.

It was not until he was finally spotted in Augusta GA, signing autographs outside the Masters, that anyone knew what had become of him. As it turns out, despite what seemed like many reasons to quit, John Daly had done just the opposite. He was working behind the scenes to rebuild his career and reshape much of his life. This was not just some minor tweaking either... This was Extreme Makeover - Golf Edition!

As usual, much of the press written about his appearance in Augusta was negative. I laugh now as I recall how few of the mainstream writers commented on the fact that John Daly looked years younger and more physically fit than he had been in years. Few also mentioned that thousands of fans were lined-up for a chance to meet one of the most popular golfers of all times. As usual, the media's focus was on his troubles - rehashed over and over.

But despite the usual press, last April was a good time for John, because it marked the public re-emergence of the NEW Lion, in many ways. Looking at him today, almost one full year later, the transformation has been fantastic and worthy of more than only a passing mention in a story about his past. Since the mainstream media can't seem to do it right, I thought I might try.

You see, I have no interest in revisiting the past, like so many who have written about John Daly. I am more concerned about the the present and the future. Suffice it to say that John Daly has lived a full life and one that has not always been easy - especially on himself.

It is plain to see however that, through his recent actions, John Daly realizes more than anyone else that it is time to fish or cut bait.

So, one year later, John Daly has lost well over 100 lbs, he has signed deals with several new business partners and sponsors and, perhaps most importantly, has started to play much better golf. His deal with clothing manufacturer Loudmouth has served the added purpose of providing him with a unique and unmistakable style.

Much of this transformation and his quest to earn his tour card, is being documented in the new reality television series "Being John Daly", which airs on the Golf Channel, Tuesday nights. It is worth watching. I have enjoyed the first few episodes tremendously.

But, despite his efforts, Daly is fighting more than just himself in this attempt at redemption. The years of controversy have left scars, some that are not healing as well as others.

Money issues still exist and probably weigh on his mind more than he lets on. Despite having tremendous earning power, things aren't what they used to be just yet.

Certain members of the press are not interested in the idea of a "new" John Daly. He has been dogged - if not hounded - by a group of writers including Steve Elling of CBS Sports, who seem to have an agenda to besmirch Daly as often and as viciously as possible. Of course, there's plenty of history there, but he is clearly still a target of the press.

Of course, John has also had to fight the establishment - the stiff shirts of golf - who are not always willing to forgive and forget. He is not always invited to tournaments anymore, despite their having profited greatly for decades from John Daly's tremendous ability to draw fans and sell tickets. While he was at the top of his game, they clamored and lined up to ask him to attend and paid him appearance fees to help sell tickets and attract sponsors - but not so much now that he needs them.

Nonetheless, through thick and thin, John Daly has remained a warm, deep feeling, and tremendously charitable guy, who has done a great deal for the PGA Tour, for its sponsors and charities. That alone is reason enough to stand behind him and cheer him on.