Home » Golf News » Michael Thorbjornsen, TGL, and the Case for a Chicago-Based Franchise
When Michael Thorbjornsen teed it up for Boston Common Golf in the TGL, it was a reminder of one of the league’s most compelling elements: regional identity. Thorbjornsen’s New England roots made him a natural fit for a Boston-based franchise, reinforcing the idea that TGL teams can — and should — reflect local pride, culture, and golf heritage.
Chicago golf fans were first introduced to Thorbjornsen in 2021 at the Glen View Club, when he delivered a performance for the ages at the 119th Western Amateur, turning his tournament debut into a historic breakthrough. He opened eyes immediately by firing a course-record 8-under-par 62 during stroke play, earning medalist honors before carrying that momentum through match play to claim the George R. Thorne Trophy.
What is The TGL?
The TGL (Tomorrow’s Golf League) is a technology-driven golf league in its second season that is designed to bring the sport into a fast-paced, prime-time, made-for-television format. Created by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy in partnership with the PGA Tour, TGL blends real ball-striking with virtual golf inside a custom-built arena.
Players hit real shots into a massive simulator screen for long shots and then transition to a rotating, modular short-game complex for approach shots, chips, and putts. Matches are played by teams, not individuals, and are intentionally shorter, louder, and more interactive than traditional tournament golf.
What sets TGL apart is its emphasis on team golf, personality, and entertainment. Players are mic’d up, strategy discussions are audible, and shot clocks keep the action moving. Chicago’s own Roger Steele is the master of ceremonies at the SoFi Center in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
The league is built to appeal to both hardcore golf fans and casual sports viewers, with dramatic lighting, walk-up music, and a format that encourages momentum swings and trash talk. Rather than replacing traditional golf, TGL is meant to complement it — showcasing elite players in a new environment that highlights athleticism, creativity, and connection, while positioning golf squarely in the modern sports and media landscape.
Michael Thorbjornsen in his TGL debut
This raises an obvious question for Midwest golf fans:
What would a Chicago TGL franchise look like?
Chicago has deep golf roots, a passionate sports culture, and a growing appetite for modern, tech-driven golf experiences. Pair that with a strong pipeline of PGA Tour talent connected to the region, and our City feels like a natural future home for a TGL team.
Below are some fun, on-brand franchise name ideas — followed by a Chicago-centric roster that would feel authentic, competitive, and instantly marketable.
Fun & Fitting Chicago TGL Franchise Name Ideas
1. Chicago Loop Golf Club
A clean, classic name that works on multiple levels:
A nod to downtown Chicago
A subtle reference to TGL’s fast-paced, loop-style match play
Sophisticated and sponsor-friendly
Vibe: Traditional golf meets modern tech
2. Windy City Drivers
Bold, playful, and unmistakably Chicago.
Leverages the city’s most famous nickname
“Drivers” works perfectly in a launch-monitor-heavy league
Easy branding and chant potential
Vibe: Loud, fast, power-focused
3. Chicago 312 Golf Club
Hyper-local and instantly recognizable.
The city’s iconic area code builds instant loyalty
Great for merch and streetwear-style branding
Feels authentic to Chicagoans, unless you’re 773 or 872
Vibe: Local pride, culture-forward
A Chicago-Centric TGL Roster That Makes Sense
One of the smartest things TGL has done is lean into regional connection, not just world rankings. Chicago is uniquely positioned here, with several PGA Tour players who have real ties to the Midwest and reputations as steady, respected professionals.
Kevin Streelman
Why he fits:
Born in Illinois
Two PGA Tour wins and respected locker-room leader
Calm, consistent, and experienced under pressure
Role: Team anchor, trusted closer
Nick Hardy
Why he fits:
Illinois native with Midwest roots and one PGA Tour win
Younger energy and strong ball-striking
Familiar name to Chicago-area golf fans
Role: Rising star, momentum builder
Doug Ghim
Why he fits:
Grew up in the Chicago suburbs
Elite ball-striker and analytical thinker
Well-suited to simulator-based competition
Role: Precision specialist, strategy weapon
Optional Wildcard Add
A rotating spot could feature:
A rising Illinois collegiate standout
A Chicago-connected PGA Tour rookie
Or even a short-term guest appearance for special events
This keeps the roster fresh and deepens local engagement.
Why Chicago Makes Sense for TGL
Chicago checks every box:
Massive sports market
Passionate fan base that embraces innovation
Deep golf history (public, private, and municipal)
Strong corporate sponsorship ecosystem
A Chicago TGL franchise wouldn’t just work — it would thrive. We haven’t hosted a PGA Tour stroke play event since the 2023 BMW Championship at Olympia Fields. And we may not see a full field event here until 2028 at the earliest. Thankfully we will see the world’s best compete this September for The President’s Cup at Medinah.
With the right name, a locally rooted roster, and Chicago-style swagger, this team could quickly become one of the league’s most compelling brands.
And if TGL is serious about building regional loyalty, Chicago shouldn’t just be on the shortlist — it should be inevitable.
