THE BUSINESS
In 2018, Tim Wright realized if he could easily make a goal with a hockey stick but still couldn’t sink a five-foot golf putt, maybe it was time to combine the two sports. He began developing a design to combine the shaft of a hockey stick and the head of a golf putter – and Caliber Golf was born.
THE OBSTACLES
One advantage of a hockey stick shaft is that is does not limit hand position, instead offering almost 36 inches of the athletic feel of a hockey grip. “Combining your own stroke used with a hockey stick delivers a more natural and controlled feel for putting,” Tim said. “If you can read a green, you can control the put.”
One challenge was ensuring his golf club was legal for use in tournament play. This meant he would need to meet specific weight and distribution requirements. Ultimately, he created the first putting grip and shaft model that was recognized by the United States Golf Association (USGA) as “conforming to the rules of golf.”
Watch to discover some of the things Tim loves about being an entrepreneur.
- Enjoying a flexible schedule
- Building a product you believe in and trust
- Creating a product to enhance the industry you love
THE STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS
Another challenge Tim met was in marketing. His successful outreach strategy now includes collaboration on social media with many different groups. “I have learned that tagging the right people on social media can make a big difference,” Tim said. “For example, the social media golfing influencers known as Twin Tour Golf have been great partners of mine and Gary D’amato of Wisconsin.Golf has published stories featuring Caliber Golf.”
For Tim, forming partnerships has brought additional success. He often donates putters to various charitable organizations to help raise money and awareness for their causes. He supports Vipers Hockey, a local youth hockey organization. He works with the Grey Team Miliary Community, a suicide prevention organization, and Buckets Over Bullying, an organization dedicated to preventing cyberbullying and supporting victims with a sports-centric focus on basketball.
Listen to Tim describe how his business has grown from a small idea to a successful business.
Accomplishments with SBDC’s Go Global
- Insights and strategy
- International regulations
- Resources
THE ASSISTANCE
When Tim needed to understand labeling differences such as “Made in the USA” and “Manufactured in Wisconsin, USA” he turned to the Wisconsin Small Business Development Center (SBDC). He met with Chris Wojtowicz of the SBDC’s Go Global initiative.
Watch this video to learn how easy (and fun!) it is to work with Chris.
- Access to and availability of Chris was impressive
- Same day responses with meeting times that met Tim’s schedule were important
- Chris was also fun to work with
Tim said, “Chris was an incredible resource. He was always available and provided accurate international insights.” Chris provided information on shipping and other government regulations that really enhanced Caliber Golf’s ability to now ship to South Korea and Japan.
Watch this video to learn more about the type of assistance Go Global can provide.
- Great resources for answering questions
- Valuable insights on international rulings for solopreneurs and small business owners
- Substantial knowledge of trade rules and regulations
THE FUTURE
Tim said with a smile on his face, “A Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) pro told me I am one Sunday away from really being a huge success. So, I am looking forward to the day when a professional uses my putter on TV in a big tournament.”
STORY VIDEOS
Published September 2025