What Happened to Professional Golfers' Association of America (PGA of America)?
The PGA of America is a leading organization of nearly 29,000 golf professionals, founded in 1916, dedicated to elevating the standards of the golf profession and growing interest and participation in the game. It is distinct from the PGA Tour and is responsible for conducting major championships like the PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup when held in the U.S. The organization recently underwent leadership changes, with Terry Clark appointed CEO in February 2026, and continues to focus on its mission from its new headquarters in Frisco, Texas.
Quick Answer
The PGA of America continues to serve as a foundational body for golf professionals, focusing on education, career development, and growing the game. It remains the organizer of major championships such as the PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup (when hosted in the United States). In early 2026, the organization appointed Terry Clark as its new CEO, following the resignation of Derek Sprague, marking a significant leadership transition. Its headquarters, PGA Frisco, was inaugurated in May 2023, solidifying its presence in Texas.
📊Key Facts
📅Complete Timeline14 events
Founding of the PGA of America
The Professional Golfers' Association of America is officially founded in New York City, inspired by Rodman Wanamaker, to promote golf and support professionals.
First PGA Championship Held
The inaugural PGA Championship is held at Siwanoy Country Club in Bronxville, New York, with Jim Barnes winning the Wanamaker Trophy.
PGA Tour Spins Off
The PGA Tour (originally the Tournament Players Division) is spun off from the PGA of America to manage professional golf tournaments, allowing the PGA of America to focus on its members.
Launch of Play Golf America
The PGA of America launches 'Play Golf America' to increase participation among new and occasional adult golfers, in collaboration with allied associations.
Headquarters Relocation to Frisco, Texas Announced
The PGA of America announces plans to relocate its headquarters from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, to a new 660-acre mixed-use development in Frisco, Texas.
PGA Frisco Campus Inaugurated
The new PGA Frisco campus, including the PGA of America headquarters, two championship golf courses, and an Omni resort, is officially inaugurated.
Fiscal Year Revenue Reaches $172 Million
The PGA of America reports total revenue of over $172 million for its fiscal year ending March 31, 2024, a 33% increase from the prior year.
Derek Sprague Appointed CEO
Derek Sprague, a PGA of America Golf Professional and Past President, is appointed CEO, becoming the first club professional to lead the organization in nearly 20 years.
Scottie Scheffler Wins 2025 PGA Championship
Scottie Scheffler claims his first Wanamaker Trophy by winning the 2025 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Executive Departures and Ryder Cup Controversy
PGA of America Chief Commercial and Philanthropy Officer Jeff Price leaves the organization. The 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black faces criticism for rowdy U.S. fan behavior, leading to apologies from PGA of America leaders.
Derek Sprague Resigns as CEO
Derek Sprague announces his resignation as CEO of the PGA of America, less than a year into his tenure, citing family reasons.
2026 PGA Championship Director Departs
Ryan Ogle, director of the 2026 PGA Championship, announces his departure from the PGA of America, marking another high-profile executive change.
Terry Clark Appointed New CEO
Terry Clark, a marketing executive and former independent director, is named the new CEO of the PGA of America, effective March 2, 2026.
Terry Clark Assumes CEO Role
Terry Clark officially begins his tenure as the Chief Executive Officer of the Professional Golfers' Association of America.
🔍Deep Dive Analysis
The Professional Golfers' Association of America (PGA of America) was established on April 10, 1916, at the instigation of Rodman Wanamaker, a Philadelphia businessman. Its core mission is to promote interest in professional golf, elevate the standards of the game, and advance the welfare of its members, who primarily consist of club and teaching professionals rather than touring players.
A key turning point in its history occurred in 1968 when the PGA Tour was spun off as a separate entity to manage professional golf tournaments, allowing the PGA of America to focus on its foundational role of serving its members and growing the game. Despite this separation, the PGA of America continues to directly conduct several prestigious tournaments, including the PGA Championship, the Senior PGA Championship, the Women's PGA Championship, and the Ryder Cup when it is held on American soil.
In recent years, the PGA of America has undertaken significant strategic initiatives. In December 2018, it announced plans to relocate its headquarters from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, to a new 660-acre mixed-use development in Frisco, Texas. This state-of-the-art campus, known as PGA Frisco, was inaugurated in May 2023 and includes two championship golf courses, a clubhouse, and an Omni resort, serving as a hub for golf professionals and enthusiasts.
The organization also champions various 'grow the game' initiatives through its charitable foundation, PGA Reach, which includes programs like PGA HOPE (serving military veterans) and PGA WORKS (promoting diversity and inclusion in the golf industry). Financially, the PGA of America reported total revenue exceeding $172 million for its fiscal year ending March 31, 2024, a 33% increase from the previous year, with much of this attributed to tournament revenue, including the Ryder Cup.
As of early 2026, the PGA of America experienced significant leadership changes. Derek Sprague, who became CEO in December 2024, resigned in January 2026 due to family reasons. Following his departure, Terry Clark, a marketing executive and former independent director on the PGA's board, was appointed as the new CEO, effective March 2, 2026. This transition comes as the golf world continues to navigate a dynamic landscape, including ongoing discussions and competition within professional tours. The PGA of America remains committed to its core mission, with future PGA Championship venues already scheduled through 2035, demonstrating its long-term stability and influence in the sport.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if Professional Golfers' Association of America (PGA of America) made different choices?