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By Michael George
Special To PGA TOUR.com

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. -- Despite the threat of rain and overcast skies, fans came out in big numbers to see Thursday's opening round of THE PLAYERS Championship.

Phil Mickelson signs autographs following his practice round on Wednesday. (WireImage)

And, when they passed through the entry gates, they were a part of a new era for the tournament.

Fans begin their experience with the new Walk Of Champions. As fans make their way to the grounds, each of the previous champions are displayed. Fans then proceed to the new Tournament Village, an area designed to complete the fan experience.

The UBS 17th Challenge returns for its second year. Fans get the opportunity to live out their fantasies and try their luck at a miniature version of the signature 17th hole.

The pin placement in the challenge will change each day to reflect the pin placement during each of the rounds. Prizes are also awarded to the person who reaches the green, as well as the person who is closest to the pin.

During last year's tournament, more than 5,000 fans took a chance at hitting the green. 716 players made the green, and three actually made a hole in one.

A new History Exhibit illustrates the history of THE PLAYERS as well as the World Golf Hall Of Fame in nearby St. Augustine, Fla. Several interactive exhibits are displayed as well as the opportunity to get a photo taken with the new championship trophy.

"Lessons Of Golf" is a new exhibit sponsored by PricewaterhouseCoopers. The exhibit features interactive displays and a chance for a person to win a lifetime supply of golf balls.

Looking for a window or door? No problem. Proud Partner JELD-WEN has an exhibit featuring their line of products. In addition, the exhibit has a TrackMan exhibit where fans can take a swing down a virtual hole. TrackMan can analyze how far the shot went and where the ball landed.

Once fans make it to the course, it's the 17th hole that still brings in the large crowds. The amphitheater setup provides many great viewing areas for fans. When players such as Tiger Woods or Phil Mickelson approach the tee, the area is like a packed rock concert.

There are plenty of areas around the hole that provide excellent angles for the 17th as well as nearby holes. A new grandstand has been placed behind the green, as well as a tunnel to provide players with easier access to the 18th tee.

New this year is a viewing area at the 17th tee area for fans with disabilities. The platform provides an unobstructed view of the 17th hole. For Nancy King of Vero Beach, Fla., the new area is a very welcomed addition.

"This is such a great way to watch the tournament," King said. "It's nice to be able to have a place that's a little less crowded, and have a great view of the action."

This is King's first visit to the THE PLAYERS Stadium Course and she has been impressed with her ability to be a part of the action.

"They've really went out of their way to make it very easy for fans to watch the tournament," King said. "We really didn't have to travel very far to get here, we noticed the viewing area, and I've been here ever since.

"This course is like nothing I've ever seen before. It's beautiful and watching it on TV is nothing like being here in person."

While it's even easier for spectators to see the action on 17, one thing remains the same. According to the history exhibit, the water surrounding 17 claims more than 120,000 golf balls each year.

New technology abounds at THE PLAYERS Stadium Course. Video boards are all over the course which provides updated statistics on the day's play. Fans can also rent a portable XM Satellite Radio which provides a dedicated channel only available on the grounds.

One of the newest features is MyLeaderboard. Fans can rent the handheld device which gives instant updates on the tournament. Fans can track their favorite players as well as locating different areas on the course.