A stick, a ball, and a hole in the ground - the three basic elements of one of the most popular sports on the planet. It's also one of the most popular business networking opportunities on the planet.

There are plenty of reasons that golf is the perfect fun-meets-business activity. Unlike shooting hoops or playing tennis, a game of golf gives you a chance to talk. People of every age and fitness level can play golf. And let's be honest, another reason to love golf is all the cool accessories!

Turn those accessories into a marketing opportunity. Here are the top four must-have promotional golf items and why they get the job done:

1. Golf balls: SPLASH! That's the sound of a wayward shot landing in the pond near hole 8. You can never have too many golf balls, and no one will turn done some freebies. Have an extra sleeve of balls on hand to giveaway to golf buddies and folks you meet in the clubhouse.

Stick with a trusted name in the golf industry, like the Maxfli Max Distance High Launch Golf Ball, to make the best impression. Golfers know their brands, and you'll come across as a high-end, successful business when you attach your logo to a name like Maxfli.

2. Golf umbrella: A good set of golf clubs will cost you hundreds of dollars. You definitely want to keep them sheltered from the elements. A golf umbrella will keep you and your sticks dry.

Golfers are expected to carry themselves with sophistication and to respect the course. You don't want an eye sore of an umbrella that can be spotted from three holes over. The Best Value 60 Golf Umbrella has a sharp, classy look that's appropriate for the greens. It offers a great combination of stylish stripes and classic colors.

3. Golf towels: A dirty golf ball covered with clumps of grass doesn't fly right. That's why avid golfers keep all their equipment spot-free. You hang your golf towel on the outside of your bag, making it a subtle yet visible ad for your business. Fellow golfers see your bag on the course, sitting outside of the clubhouse, and at the driving range.

White is the classic color for golf towels, but consider going with something more eye-catching. For example, the Platinum Collection Colored 16 x 25 Golf Towel comes in a dozen colors. With choices that range from burgundy to berry, you can find a color that nicely complements your logo.

4. Golf shirt: No shirt, no shoes, no golf! A nice polo and crisp khakis are the golfer's unofficial uniform. Wear a golf shirt featuring your logo every time you hit the greens. You can also give them out as gifts to clients, employees, and even friends and family members. An attractive polo can also be worn as part of your everyday wardrobe.

Again, go with a recognizable brand name. PING sets the standard when it comes to golf equipment and accessories. Any golfer would be proud to sport a PING - DRY-FIBER DYNAMICS Pique Jacquard Textured Sport Shirt. With cool features like built-in UV protection, it's a definite conversation starter. Everyone who sees it will want one for themselves.

Don't hit the links without your promotional golf items in tow. No matter what you shoot, you'll be the real winner with all the new clients you'll attract!