John Wood Becomes Team Manager for Ryder Cup
FARMINGDALE, N.Y. — Last June, John Wood, a former caddie turned broadcaster, received a surprising call from Seth Waugh, the then CEO of the PGA of America. The conversation centered around a new initiative to appoint a team manager for the U.S. Ryder Cup team.
Streamlining Team Responsibilities
Traditionally, every two years, the U.S. team starts anew with a captain who manages everything—from meal choices to locker room design. Waugh and PGA leaders felt it was unnecessary to start over every time. “This allows future captains to focus on the players and winning instead of trivial logistics,” Wood explained.
Unexpected Offer
To Wood’s astonishment, Waugh wasn’t just seeking input; he wanted Wood for the role. “I thought they were looking for suggestions, so when he asked me directly, I was honored,” recalled Wood during an interview with Golfweek. “I couldn’t say yes fast enough—it felt like being invited to ride with Santa Claus.”
Team Room Experience
Wood has extensive Ryder Cup experience, caddying for Hunter Mahan and Matt Kuchar and serving as an assistant in 2018. Despite transitioning to his broadcasting role, he missed the camaraderie of the team room. “Once you’ve experienced it, you never want to miss another,” he said.
Defining the Role
The team manager position is still being shaped. Wood acts as a resource for players, caddies, and staff, ensuring everything from logistical support to emotional assistance. “Every detail counts, especially when aiming for that crucial half point,” he noted.
The 13th Man
Wood has quickly become the team’s unofficial 13th man. Michelle Tesori, wife of veteran caddie Paul Tesori, aptly commented on social media that “when you love something so much, they create a position for you.”
Future Contributions
Beyond immediate tasks, Wood aims to provide future captains with valuable insights based on past experiences. “If they ask about previous strategies or decisions, I’ll be ready to share,” he confirmed, emphasizing his role as a glue guy for the U.S. Ryder Cup team’s success.
This article originally appeared on Golfweek: Ryder Cup: The U.S. team has a manager for the first time at Bethpage
