TGL, the Palm Beach Gardens-based interactive golf league, is moving forward with full momentum, according to Hall of Famer Tiger Woods, one of its co-founders.
Woods, a resident of Jupiter Island, recently answered questions via e-mail exclusively for The Palm Beach Post regarding his team, Jupiter Links GC, and the league’s progress. Despite a setback in November when the roof of the original building collapsed due to a power outage and wind storm, the league is on track for its January launch.
“Our team rosters are almost finalized, and I believe people will soon have a better understanding of our competition, technology, and format,” Woods stated. “The anticipation is building, and I am eagerly looking forward to January.”
The team lineup, which includes Max Homa, Tom Kim, and Kevin Kisner, was announced on Monday. All six four-man rosters are known, with the exception of two spots on the San Francisco team, which has yet to be officially revealed.
The final piece fell into place when TMRW Sports Group, the league’s owner, received approval from Palm Beach State College to construct a permanent arena named the SoFi Center on its campus along PGA Boulevard. This venue, with seating for 1,500 fans, was approved just a month ago.
TMRW Sports, established by Mike McCarley, Woods, and Rory McIlroy of Jupiter, in partnership with the PGA Tour, is spearheading the league’s formation.
Scheduled to kick off on Jan. 7, the league will feature matches held once a week, with each team playing five matches followed by playoffs.
In an exclusive interview with The Post, Woods shared insights into his team and the progress being made:
Q: How did Jupiter Links GC come together?
A: “TGL league policy was to prioritize player schedules first so that all the guys could commit to and play their normal, desired PGA Tour schedule. Last thing we wanted was a player to not play in an event due to a TGL match. With that, I have three guys on my team that I enjoy being around, that I know are going to work hard and grind as team members, can talk a little trash and will have a great time. If I compete in something, I want to win. Jupiter Links now has one of the top all-around players in the world in Max Homa, one of the fastest-rising young stars in Tom Kim and I’ll put Kiz up against anyone in team play. So while I didn’t hand pick this team, I’m thrilled at where Jupiter Links Golf Club stands.”
Q: What do you like about how each players’ game fits the TGL format?
A: “I think each player is going to bring a lot of game and personality to Jupiter Links. TGL’s format, which includes a shot clock, time outs, and both team and individual match play, is really going to highlight our players’ talents and bring a fresh, modern, and fast-paced twist to the game we all love so much.”
Q: What is your excitement level on how TGL is progressing with its new venue, teams being announced?
A: “We are full steam ahead on the new design and build of SoFi Center and after this Jupiter Links announcement, there is only one TGL team brand and roster left to be revealed – the San Francisco team – and that should be happening very soon. Once we have all teams and rosters finalized, I think people will start to learn more about our competition, technology and format. It’s starting to feel real and I couldn’t be more excited for January.”
By Tom D’Angelo, Senior sports columnist and golf writer for The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA Today Network. Contact: tdangelo@pbpost.com.
