Georgianne Koch- Legend of Cincinnati Golf

 

 

Georgianne Koch’s path to the Legends of Cincinnati Golf is paved not only with her knowledge and love for the sport, but also with a deep commitment to service, mentorship, and the cultivation of values that transcend the fairways. Her story is one of dedication—to her family, her community, and to generations of golfers who have been inspired by her leadership and example.

Georgianne is the proud parent of two adult children: Rae Koch, together with spouse Marlowe Wesley, resides in Providence, Rhode Island, while Ashley Koch makes their home in Ferndale, Michigan. Georgianne’s academic journey began at The Ohio State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in 1983, followed by an MBA from the University of Cincinnati in 1989.

Georgianne’s professional career led her to cost accounting at Great American Insurance, where she worked until 1997. At that pivotal moment, she “retired” from the business world to raise her children, embarking on what she fondly describes as a career in professional volunteerism. Her involvement in schools and churches, including roles as children’s choir leader, accompanist, and choir member, laid the foundation for a lifetime of service.

Georgianne’s impact on the golfing community is both profound and far-reaching. She has served on the boards of several influential organizations, including:

  • Greater Cincinnati Women's Golf Association (GCWGA): Tournament Chair and President
  • Greater Cincinnati Platform Tennis Association (GCPTA): Webmaster and President
  • Women's Ohio State Golf Association (WOSGA): Rules Chair
  • Committee Chair for Futures Tour tournaments and the LPGA Queen City Championship Scoring Tent (2 years)

Her club memberships include Beckett Ridge Country Club (1989–2008) and Terrace Park Country Club (since 2008).

Georgianne’s dedication to golf rules officiating is both her passion and her calling. She currently serves as:

  • Member of the USGA National Committee as a rules official (since 2022)
  • Director and co-head rules official for the Women’s Western Golf Association’s annual tournaments
  • Member of the Terrace Park Country Club Green Committee
  • GCGA/USGA Course Rater (for 20 years, starting in 2004)
  • Rules Official for GCGA (since 2017), Miami Valley Golf Association, and the Northern Ohio Golf Association
  • NCAA Women’s Regional Rules Official and officiator for high school and college tournaments
  • Chair of the GCWGA Scholarship Foundation (since 2015)

Serving on the GCWGA board introduced Georgianne to a vibrant and diverse golf community, where she embraced the opportunity to promote the sport and recruit women for rules and course rating involvement. Her passion for rules education is evident in her work with the GCGA, especially during major rules revisions in 2019 and 2023.

Of all her contributions, the GCWGA Scholarship Foundation holds a special place in Georgianne’s heart. Created in 2007, this initiative has awarded $284,700 in scholarships to 162 high school girls involved in golf—funded by 23 private clubs and their dedicated women members. Georgianne’s ability to connect with coaches, parents, and players ensures the Foundation’s ongoing success and visibility.

She is also a mentor to aspiring rules officials, offering guidance and inviting others to join her on the course. For Georgianne, making rules welcoming and accessible is both a joy and a responsibility.

Golf has been a lifelong companion for Georgianne, instilling in her the values of integrity, consideration, and stewardship—lessons she has carried from childhood throughout her career. Whether teaching etiquette to new players or leading by example on and off the course, she serves as a steadfast role model, championing honesty and caring for others.

Georgianne’s hope is that her presence as a woman in golf officiating inspires young players—especially girls and women—to see themselves as integral members of the golf world, beyond the role of player. She strives to be a familiar, encouraging face as they advance from high school to collegiate and amateur tournaments, fostering a tradition of giving back.

In the Cincinnati golf community, Georgianne Koch is both a guiding spirit and a humble supporter, enabling others to shine. Her tireless work in the background helps ensure that the sport remains fair, fun, and full of opportunity for all. Tonight, we honor her not just for what she has achieved, but for the difference she makes—every day, and for years to come.