Engineering the Fastest Format in Pro Golf with Jon Kropp, TGL

What happens when you combine PGA Tour superstars, a massive custom-built golf simulator, and real-time team competition, all under one roof? 

You get TGL, a next-generation indoor golf league that’s redefining the sport. In this episode, Dave sits down with Jon Kropp, VP of Digital Media at TGL, who shares how this new format came to life and why it’s captivating fans, athletes, and tech partners.

Jon was one of the earliest employees at TGL and shares how he helped develop new content pipelines for the league while working with partners like ESPN, SiriusXM, and FanDuel. 

Jon also discusses what it means to operate like a startup while managing a high-stakes product watched by millions. He opens up about radar tracking and their shape-shifting green that allows real-world finishing shots on a virtual course.

TGL might just be the model for the future of fan engagement.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• How TGL built a real-life putting surface with over 500 actuators that change shape mid-match
• Jon’s team of 30+ content creators and the struggle to keep up with the pace of play
• Jon’s thoughts on what’s next for TGL: more teams, more venues, and the potential inclusion of women’s competitions powered by tech-enabled parity
• How the TGL team approached testing, simulation, and infrastructure buildout for a brand-new format

Resources and Links:

Learn more about TGL on their website and follow @tglgolf on Instagram.

Learn more about Next League on our website and LinkedIn. We are leading sports organizations into the digital future.