Celebrating Career Triumph: Ted Koehler at the PGA of America

News Summary

Ted Koehler has emerged as a significant figure at the PGA of America, blending his passion for golf with a successful legal career. With a 0.90 handicap, his journey from Milwaukee to becoming deputy general counsel includes pivotal roles at USADA and the PGA, focusing on major projects and legal matters. Koehler’s story embodies the spirit of golf, offering inspiration to others who share his love for the sport.

Celebrating Career Triumph: Ted Koehler at the PGA of America

Meet Ted Koehler, a name that’s becoming synonymous with success at the PGA of America. Picture a near-scratch golfer wielding a 0.90 handicap, who turns his passion for golf into a successful career advising one of the most significant organizations in the sport. With over 30,000 PGA professionals under its banner, the PGA is an impressive entity, and Koehler is at its very heart.

From Milwaukee to Major Tournaments

Born and raised in a suburb of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Koehler’s life has been reminiscent of an old-time storybook—one that whispers tales of family, camaraderie, and of course, golf. His father was a self-employed executive recruiter, while his mother dedicated her time to being a homemaker. It was a truly “Norman Rockwell-esque” upbringing, filled with warm memories, particularly ones spent on the golf course. During his childhood summers, he participated in a municipal golf program, sparking a love for the game that remains strong today.

A Roundabout Career Path

After earning his political science degree from the University of Wisconsin, Koehler’s professional journey led him to Washington, D.C., where he worked as a legislative clerk for a senator. However, this was just the beginning. After a stint in the alternative energy sector and exploring other ventures, he eventually found his footing at the University of Michigan Law School. There, he pivoted his focus from the political arena to the operational side of law, realizing that he wanted to make a tangible difference.

Legal Expertise at USADA and the PGA

His career took a fascinating turn in 2017 when he became the legal affairs and trial counsel manager at the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency. Here, he was tasked with ensuring fairness while prosecuting athletes for anti-doping violations. This balancing act honed his legal skills and prepared him for the challenges he would face at the PGA of America.

When Koehler joined the PGA in 2017 as senior counsel, he started working on high-profile projects that included significant events like the Ryder Cup and collaborations with major partners like Omni Hotels & Resorts for developments like PGA Frisco. Koehler’s expertise and leadership have not gone unnoticed; he has received three promotions within four years and now celebrates his role as the deputy general counsel.

Behind the Scenes at the PGA

As the PGA hosts more than 20 tournaments each year, Koehler’s responsibilities range from navigating intricate legal matters to managing an array of educational and charitable initiatives. Working with only a handful of other legal professionals at the PGA, Koehler understands that good judgment is vital and that he must balance various competing objectives in his work.

Looking Ahead

On November 17, 2025, the PGA of America announced various leadership appointments, including key transitions within its legal team. While Henry Smokler shifts into a senior advisory role, Drew Blasband rises to become the General Counsel and a member of the Executive Team. As Jeff Price, the Chief Commercial and Philanthropy Officer, prepares to depart after more than a decade, the organization remains focused on its future and commitment to the sport.

Through it all, Koehler credits golf for some of his most cherished memories, whether it’s a casual round with friends or time spent on the course with his father. He believes that making a career out of one’s personal interests not only keeps life enjoyable but allows for authentic connections to be formed over the game.

As he settles into his role, one thing is clear: Ted Koehler’s journey through the world of golf is far from over, and with each success, he continues to inspire others who share his love for the sport.

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