Why do people seem to think it's necessary that a company give something and expect nothing in return? Of course Coke wants to increase sales. That's the whole purpose of running a business. Like it or not, capitalism rules the western hemisphere. Expecting something for nothing from a conglomerate is completely unrealistic.
In the same respect, expecting a company to come along and outright change the state of the game is equally blind sighted. It will take a large amount of baby steps to drag this game out of the gutter. These baby steps will be made by numerous individuals and companies, in very small increments.
This deal with Coke is not our games savior, but it is a step in the right direction. A large company thinks they can profit from us, and I seriously hope their suspicion proves true. If they can make sufficient margins, then they may be willing to invest money at a later date.
I honestly believe that pool has one huge flaw. It's not the gambling that people always rant about. It's the obscenely large number of people who have nothing positive to say except drag others down. The day people start supporting each other and being positive is the day more companies like Coke decide to side with us.
Tap, Tap, Tap :thumbup:
As Nathan and others have pointed out, this is but a small step in the right direction. Nothing more. But... having Coke as a sponsor/corporate partner even in a limited sense could make it easier to entice other corporate entities to partner up in the future. Coke has HUGE name recognition. If/when pool organizations try to create other corporate partnerships and/or sponsorships, they can cite the fact that Coke is already onboard. That association alone is very valuable.
Who knows, perhaps Coke may become more involved if there ever is a valid avenue for them to increase their participation. Currently there is no viable national professional tour for either the men or the ladies, at least not of any stature. If the pro's get organized (sigh) perhaps there will be more opportunites for greater corporate sponsorship.
Why this has to be perceived as anything but positive is beyond me, but folks who do nothing but complain are a mystery to me as well. I suppose it makes them feel better in some manner, dragging others down.
Hopefully pool won't squander this opportunity with Coke, and use it to grow the sport.