Meet Anthony Roth | OSU HCS Alumnus Class of 2008
Anthony Roth, PGA received his Bachelor of Science (2008) in Professional Golf Management (PGM) from our department and is now the Assistant Golf Professional at Martis Camp Club in Truckee, California.
He had initially considered pursing Turfgrass Science while at Ohio State until he discovered the PGM program - Anthony was among the very first students to join PGM when the major debuted in 2005.
Today, Anthony is thriving in both his life and career after overcoming some unexpected obstacles along the way. He shared "three days after graduating from The Ohio State University I was diagnosed with cancer. My Air Force career was put on hold as I went through chemotherapy treatment. I was declared cancer free in March of 2009 but received a medical disqualification from the Air Force and could no longer pursue that path. Life threw me a huge curveball and I struggled to break back into the golf business." Anthony successfully pivoted back into the golf industry in 2010 when he became the Assistant Golf Professional at Kinsale Golf & Fitness Club in Powell, Ohio. He was quick to mention that at Kinsale "Andy Montgomery was a huge influence and mentor in my first leadership role".
Over the years, Anthony has been able to partake in many fun golf travels including a few he noted as standouts "Las Vegas, Tuscan, Scottsdale, Monterey Peninsula, Bandon Dunes, Florida, Texas, and most recently Pinehurst, North Carolina".
We are grateful that Anthony was willing to share such an open and honest look into his experiences that led him to where he is today…
How’d you initially become interested in golf?
Growing up my dad, uncles, and grandparents played a lot and I always wanted to join the fun. I became very interested in the game and played recreationally with friends throughout high school.
How was your time at Ohio State?
While I was at Ohio State, I was a member of the Air Force ROTC program for all 4 years. After my freshman year I received a full tuition scholarship. Once the PGM program got off and running in 2005 I served as the student council representative for PGM my sophomore, junior, and senior year. Both programs helped me develop discipline, leadership, and organizational skills that led to completing my degree in winter of 2008.
Before graduating in 2008 I also completed internships at Scioto Country Club, the Blue Heron Golf Club, and Westfield Country Club. My time at Ohio State and extracurricular involvement really made me feel at home and a part of something special.
What’s a normal day as the Assistant Golf Professional at Martis Camp like?
A normal day at Martis Camp is usually full of sunshine and good times. Our golf season is short (Mid-May to Mid-October) but packed with activities and the highest of service standards. I might be on the 1st tee starting, marshalling the golf course, planning golf events, working sales in the golf shop, or simply connecting with members and guests.
In the winter months we serve as a ski operation to our membership and their guests. The days can be filled with snow or sunshine as we provide car & ski valet, ski/boot storage, and dining in a private lodge on the backside of a public ski resort.
What do you most look forward to each day on the job?
What I’ve always loved about the golf business is how many different things we as professionals do and how many different hats we can wear. I love the variety of what I do and where I do it. Mostly, I look forward to my time on the golf course with members and friends to further build those relationships.
What've been a few highlights of your career so far?
I didn’t come from a competitive golf background so jut passing the PAT [PGA of America's Playing Ability Test] was a major milestone for me. The PAT was actually the first organized golf event I’d ever even participated in and was also the first time I broke 80 on 18 holes! Another of the biggest highlights of my career was gaining my Class A Membership from the PGA of America. It took me roughly 7 years to complete, overcoming financial and health challenges along the way.
I was also very proud to be hired at the Martis Camp Club in Truckee, California. I researched the facility for months and put all the effort I could muster to impress them and be selected to the team. Lastly, just recently I was named the Assistant Golf Professional of the Year by the Northern California PGA for 2023.
What advice would you give students considering pursuing a career in the golf industry?
My advice for students and future professionals is to be meticulous about details and solving problems. Problem solving is one of the best skills you can have in this business. Additionally, there are so many paths that one can take in the golf business. Find what you love the most and what you’re good at and run with it. It’s an old saying but shoot for the stars. If you want something, go out there and do everything in your power to get it. Work hard, be patient, be positive, and be calm.
Ready to tee up your own career, we’re here for you…