CBS 58's Hometown Athlete: Steve Stricker talks Tiger, another Ryder Cup run and more

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- "A lot of it is about the money to be quite honest with you," Steve Stricker says. "You know what I mean? It's about raising those charitable dollars for these, you know, 160, 161 other charities."

Steve Stricker's foundation and the American Family Golf Championship has given more than $22 million to charity in the last decade and kept rolling at a new course last year.

For a quote unquote rookie effort, it was incredible last year.

"It really was," Stricker said. "TPC Wisconsin, and their people didn't miss a beat there either. They treated us so well. They put on a great effort on their end. The course held up."

The format with two-player teams, plus Steve's tight relationship with soon-to-be 50-year-old Tiger Woods makes you wonder.

CBS 58's Lance Allan: "So you know what the next question is: Is your buddy Tiger coming?

Stricker: "Good question. I don't know," Stricker says. "He just had back surgery. I don't know if he'll be making it or not. But obviously someday, to have him show up here in Madison again, would be truly special. And we'll see where that leads. You know, I keep in contact him with him."

Allan: "So, you have him on speed dial and then Mario on the backup plan, or how does that work?"

Stricker: "Oh, I can't ditch Mario. He's family. Yeah, I told Mario straight away, I'm like, I'm not trading you for anybody. So, he'll be my partner."

As Steve returns to competitive golf after neck surgery, you also wonder about a return to USA captain of the Ryder Cup team at some point.

"Haven't been asked. I definitely would if I was asked," Stricker said with a laugh.