Ackerley Sports Group, a sports-focused arm of Ackerley Partners, is one of the investors in TMRW Sports, the company behind the upcoming indoor golf league, TGL. Co-founded by golf legends Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, TMRW Sports is now valued at $500 million and has garnered support from various venture capital firms, pro athletes, and music stars. TGL will feature six teams of PGA Tour stars competing in an indoor arena, hitting into simulator screens for long shots and playing on a rotating physical “GreenZone” for chips and putts. Matches will be broadcasted on ESPN and have secured big-name sponsors such as SoFi.
The league has teams in Atlanta, Boston, Florida, Los Angeles, New York, and the Bay Area, owned by sports franchise owners like Steve Cohen and Fenway Sports Group. Ted Ackerley of Ackerley Sports Group is optimistic about TGL’s format and its prime time slot on ESPN, expressing hope that Seattle will have its own team in the league soon. The Ackerley brothers, part-owners of the NHL’s Seattle Kraken and investors in English soccer and South African rugby, are the sons of the late Barry Ackerley, a Seattle businessman known for owning the NBA’s Seattle Supersonics and founding the WNBA’s Seattle Storm.
The return of the NBA to Seattle is anticipated, especially with the league’s new media deals expected to include Seattle tech giant Amazon starting in 2025. The Ackerley family has a strong sports background, having been involved in multiple sports franchises over the years. The new TGL league hopes to revolutionize the way golf is played and watched, providing a unique indoor experience for both players and fans. With the support of top athletes, investors, and sponsors, TGL is poised to make a mark in the sports world.
The involvement of golf superstars like Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy adds credibility and star power to TGL, attracting interest from fans and investors alike. The league’s innovative format, combining virtual simulation with physical gameplay, is a fresh take on traditional golf tournaments. With matches set to air on ESPN, TGL has the potential to reach a wide audience and become a highly popular sports entertainment option. The backing of Ackerley Sports Group and other prominent investors further solidifies TGL’s position in the market.
As TGL prepares for its launch in January, excitement is building among golf enthusiasts and sports fans. The league’s emphasis on technology, entertainment, and elite competition sets it apart from other golf events, offering a unique blend of virtual and physical gameplay. With a strong lineup of teams and star-studded ownership, TGL is poised to make a significant impact on the sports industry and potentially pave the way for similar innovative sports ventures in the future. As the league gains momentum and expands its reach, the Ackerley brothers and other investors look forward to the success and growth of TGL in the years to come.
