News

Association News

Lavoie to build on history-rich foundation to continue growing game in new era for PGA of Alberta,
Jason Stanier named Vice-President

EDMONTON—One of the province’s most respected members, Shawn Lavoie, has been named President of the PGA of Alberta.

Lavoie, who has served on the Board for 15 years and the last two as Vice-President, has committed his life to the game of golf since his unlikely entry into the sport at the age of 12.

“I was doing yard work at my aunt’s place one day and she took me to the golf course. This led me to getting a job at the course, working in the back shop cleaning clubs. I loved everything about it and didn’t want to leave,” said Lavoie on the heels of being officially named 31st President at the Association’s 2025 Annual General Meeting in Edmonton. “By Grade 11, I was working at golf programs and knew I wanted to chase a career in golf.”

After graduating high school, Lavoie moved to Edmonton to attain his Professional Golf Management Diploma at Grant McEwan University. He got his first opportunity as a head professional at Jackfish Lodge before he moved to Calgary for a brief stop as Associate Professional at Priddis Greens Golf Club. Lavoie took on the head pro position at The Winston Golf Club for 10 months before he became General Manager at the Club – a role he served over the next 10 years. He took his leadership skills to Canyon Meadows Golf and Country Club (2019-2023) where he orchestrated the revitalization of one of Calgary’s most prestigious golf clubs.

“There have been lots of projects that I have been proud to have worked on over the years, but what I have been most proud of is being part of the PGA and being on the Board, spending time with leaders in the Association and learning from those people,” added Lavoie.

The soft-spoken, self-described golf junkie has been passionate about growing the game. He first joined the PGA of Alberta’s Board of Directors in 2010. After serving as Tournament Chair (2014-2016), Lavoie took his leadership skills to the Buying Show Committee where he was accountable for the delivery of the largest golf show in Canada. Lavoie also oversaw the financial stewardship of the organization as Vice-President (2022-2025).

“I’m very proud to be a PGA of Alberta member. It’s a flag that I’ve been flying my whole career and it has always been really important to me,” said Lavoie. “It’s cool to be a golf pro and be apart of something that is growing and thriving. My focus now, is to ensure that we all, as the PGA, focus on keeping people playing, making sure we have programs and services for the youth in our communities, but also making sure everyone’s having a great experience.”

Lavoie will take comfort in having a supportive network of members with him on the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors.

Jason Stanier will take on Vice-President responsibilities over the next two years.

Jason Stanier and Chris Paskin were re-elected for another two-year term to the Board of Directors. The Board also elected Shelley Charlton and Samuel Kirkness to their first two-year term on Monday.

Outgoing President, Matt Johnson, will now assume the Past-President role on the 12-member Board of Directors that also includes: Dallas Cantera; Kevin Chow; Blake Clayton; Josh Fleming; Todd Halpen; Jeff MacGregor; Miles Mortensen; and Chris Paskin.

Joseph Busetto, Nic Longley, Amy Popkes and Colin Yarchuk were elected to join the nine-member Assistants’ Board of Directors. Stephen Yanitski was named President of the Assistants’ Board that also includes: Tyler Leicht; Gina Nelson; Lisa Rosengarten; and Elizabeth Stewart.

For more information about the PGA of Alberta, please visit www.pgaofalberta.com.

Association News

The 2025 Spring Seminar is less than 5 weeks away! Taking place March 3rd & 4th at The Derrick G&WC. Spots are filling fast so make sure to register your facility to ensure you don’t miss out on this great opportunity

The full speaker line up has been released on the Education Page. We want to share some more information on the rest of the speakers, here some biographies and head shots!

Gavin Parker

Gavin developed an internationally recognized junior golf program at
Salisbury Country Club that promotes critical thinking and problem solving
while also inspiring passion for the game of golf. Gavin aims to instill
confidence, skills, values, and well-being in children, using golf as a tool.

Profuse social media content of videos, coaching, lessons, and humor
attract his rapidly growing audience on TikTok and Instagram. Gavin has
also collaborated with top brands in the sport such as Nike, PGA of
America, Vice Golf, Eastside Golf and more.

Danielle Gifford

Hotel Information

Room Block is with the Holiday Inn & Conference Centre

4485 Gateway Boulevard, T6H 5C3

Block Code: "PGA" , Or PGA of Alberta

Double Queen Bed Rooms: $129/night 

Call (780) 431-1100 to book your room

Cut off date is February 15th so please book your rooms before that date!

Association News

1 Day North and South Winter Teaching Summit Featuring Ryan Holley

The PGA of Alberta will be hosting its Winter Teaching Summit on March 5th immediately following the Spring Seminar at The Derrick G&WC in the north and the 6th at Golf Fanatics in the south.

Start your golf season by learning from Ryan Holley, who will join us in diving deeper into swing mechanics and ground force reaction. We are lucky to have him do a presentation at the Spring Seminar and provide a more practical experience through the teaching summit in the north and south to accommodate as many Professionals as possible.

The registration will include a catered lunch and access to the included facilities.

The summit will run through a full day from 9:00am till 4:00pm

Register for the North Summit Here

Register for the South Summit Here

Association News

The 2025 Spring Seminar is scheduled for March 3rd and 4th at The Derrick G&WC. Early Bird Registration is open until today, January 15th, at 4:00 p.m. Don’t miss out on kick-starting your 2025 season with the PGA of Alberta Flagship Education Event. This will be the third year returning to an in-person event, and the Education Committee is looking to build on the momentum from 2024.

Information regarding menu options, keynote speaker bios and detailed previews of their speeches will be released in the annual Spring Seminar information package set to be shared at the end of this month.If you have any questions regarding the Seminar and or need help registering yourself or your facility please contact Thomas Powley to assist.

Association News

Are you keen to help shape the future direction of the PGA of Alberta Golf Show? Then we want to hear from you!

The PGA of Alberta is currently seeking applications to fill two vacant positions on the organization’s Golf Show Committee.

Committee members play an active role in the planning, activation, and operation of the SHOW that is scheduled to take place March 22-23 at the Calgary BMO Centre. As a result, all Committee members are requested to be on-site to support with a day of set-up along with the duration of the SHOW where they are responsible for an active role.

Additionally, the Committee will meet a minimum of three times per year. Meetings will primarily be in person at the PGA of Alberta office. 

Individuals interested in applying to be a part of the Committee are asked to submit a brief cover letter outlining why they would like to join the PGA of Alberta Golf Show Committee. All applications should be sent to Michelle Moody (michelle.moody@pgaofalberta.com) by the deadline of January 28, 2025, at 4 pm.

Each member will receive 5 Top 100 points for being part of the Committee.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Association News

The 2025 Spring Seminar is scheduled for March 3rd & 4th at The Derrick G&WC. This will be the third year returning to an in person event and the Education Committee is looking to build off momentum from 2024. Early Bird registration is open Now until Janurary 15th at 4:00pm, don’t miss out on kick starting your 2025 season with the PGA of Alberta Flagship Education Event. 

Speaker Announcements

Ben Lorenzen 

Ben Lorenzen, CCM, is the Creative Director of Champions Run in Omaha, Nebraska, where he leads the industry in innovation and creative club concepts. As a national speaker, Ben focuses on member engagement, technology, creativity, marketing, fitness, and aquatics, sharing his expertise and setting new standards for excellence in the club industry. His dynamic leadership at Champions Run and his influential speaking engagements make him a trailblazer shaping the future of private clubs nationwide.

Terry Eckman

Dr. Terry Eckmann, is an award-winning presenter, author, and researcher. She presents internationally on topics related to leadership, effects of lifestyle choices on the brain, movement that matters, healthy aging, stress management, worksite wellness and the power of choice.

Eckmann and her daughter, Katie, coauthored “101 Mindfulness and Meditation Practices”. Terry’s other two books are "101 Ways to Age Gracefully” and "101 Brain Boosters" are used in schools and active aging communities nationally. Eckmann hosted the TV segment "Eye on Fitness" in the Minot viewing region for over 25 years.

Terry has served in various leadership roles; Chair of Teacher Education and Kinesiology, Coordinator of Corporate Fitness and Wellness and Master’s in Sports Management at MSU; Director of Marketing, Public Relations, and Community Education at Trinity Medical Center, Director of Wellness at Trinity, and owner of Body by Choice Exercise Studio.

Ryan Holley

Association News

Interested in running for a position on either the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors or Assistants’ Board of Directors in 2025? If yes, click the link below (login required) for more information and to be directed to the online Nomination Form. Deadline to submit your nomination is Friday, January 24, 2025 at 11:59pm.

Board of Directors
The Board of Directors sets all policies, rules and regulations for the PGA of Alberta, meeting on a quarterly basis to conduct the business affairs on behalf of the members. There are between nine and twelve members elected to the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors, all are Class "A" members of the PGA of Canada. Elections to the Board are held every year at the Annual General Meeting in March and election terms are set at three years.

Four (4) spots are open for election in 2025 for the Board of Directors. Click here to see the current Board.

Assistants’ Board of Directors
Assistant Professionals (Class "A") and Apprentice’s also have a voice in the Association, through the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Up to nine Class "A" members or Apprentice’s are invited to run annually for a two-year term on the Assistants’ Board of Directors, and upon election assume a portfolio, and attend committee meetings consistent with those on the Board of Directors. 

Four (4) spots are open for election in 2025 for the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Click here to see the current Assistants’ Board.

If you have any questions, please email brendan.ethier@pgaofalberta.com. 

Click Here to Submit Your Nomination

REMINDER - SAVE DRAFT FEATURE
You can save your forms online before submitting. Please follow the steps below:

1. You must be logged into your account to be able to save your draft
2. Save Draft button is located at the bottom of every form on the website
3. To find Saved Drafts, please go to "My Account" or "Manage Account" > My Saved Drafts
4. Click "Edit" beside the form you want to update
5. Submit when finished

Association News

Tom Greiner will, among other things, miss the commute to work.

The entrance road at Calgary Golf & Country Club weaves through the picturesque property, with pristine fairways out the windows on either side. You’re treated to a sneak preview of Holes 9 and 18, both dandy downhillers, and a view of a beautiful clubhouse that is backdropped by the Elbow River. 

In four decades on staff at Calgary Golf & Country Club, including 32 years as head professional, Greiner has done this drive thousands and thousands of times.

He announced several months ago that he would be retiring at the conclusion of this current season. Calgary Golf & Country Club, like many courses across Alberta, pulled the pins after the Thanksgiving long weekend.

“My first drive down to the club was with Al Ewen, my predecessor,” Greiner reminisced. “I’m pretty sure it was in January of 1985, or it may have been December of 1984, and the club had an opening for an assistant golf professional and they flew me out for an interview. I was living in Toronto at that time. So, I flew in the night before, stayed at a downtown hotel, and Al picked me up. Driving into the golf club, I remember that day like it was yesterday. It was one of those bluebird days, middle of winter, fresh snow on the ground, and we’re driving in and I’m thinking, ‘Oh boy, this place looks pretty special.’ ”

Think of all that has changed in golf since the mid-1980s — from the equipment, fashion and technology to the heroes that we’re emulating during our range sessions. But through that time, Greiner has remained a constant at Calgary Golf & Country Club. He’s been a familiar (and friendly) face for multiple generations of members and a role model for his peers. He was saluted as the PGA of Alberta’s Club Professional of the Year in 2018. 

Jeff MacGregor, the head pro at Glendale Golf & Country Club in Edmonton, described Greiner as “just a true professional” and somebody who has “set the standard within our business.”

“He’s been a mentor to many and a leader in our industry,” echoed John Wilson, a way-back-when junior member at Calgary Golf & Country Club — that was during Ewen’s tenure — and the head professional at Priddis Greens Golf & Country Club. “To have that tenure at a Club like that, it’s amazing. You’ve heard the story about him driving down that road on the first day and it’s snowing and that he knew that’s exactly where he wanted to be when he drove through those gates. And he stayed there for 40 years. It’s incredible.” 

Greiner was “immensely proud” to host the PGA of Alberta’s 2024 PING Club Professional Championship in late July, one of many dates on his summer schedule that left him feeling a bit nostalgic. “Even with every Club event, it’s like another chapter — ‘This is my last men’s member-guest, this is my last ladies’ member-guest, this is going to be my last club championship.’ You do think about that, and there’s some emotion that goes through you.”

Throughout his final season as a head professional, he’s been reflecting on his start in the sport. He didn’t grow up in a golfing family but vividly remembers an on-a-whim round at age 13, alongside a couple of buddies at a municipal layout in Burlington, Ont.

“From that first time, which really just instilled a love of the game, to end up like this, is pretty surreal,” added Greiner.

He has been asked often about his future plans and always starts with the appeal of squeezing in a few more rounds and experiencing Calgary’s next splendid summer at a different pace.

“I just want to simplify things, enjoy the city, enjoy my home, enjoy my backyard and be able to enjoy a summer not having my days laid out for me because I have this list of things that need to be accomplished at work,” he said.

He will, however, miss his commute. His initial observation, all those years ago, was spot-on — Calgary Golf & Country Club is a pretty special place. 

“One of my lines for many, many years has always been that I have the best head office in Calgary,” Greiner said. “I feel incredibly fortunate to have been able to call this home for so many years. Probably a lot of professionals would aspire to be the head professional at a top-tier private club in the country, and this certainly is one of those. So, for me to be able to be in the position that I’ve been for so many years, you know, I feel so lucky.

“I couldn’t have scripted it any better.”

Association News

The PGA of Alberta is thrilled to announce a new partnership with PLYR Athletics for the next two years! PLYR will serve as the Title Sponsor of the PLYR Season Kick-Off, set to take place at the beautiful Banff Springs Golf Course.

Chase Porter, Founder of PLYR Athletics, shared his excitement “On behalf of PLYR, we are very excited to partner with the PGA of Alberta and its membership through an event that closely aligns with our brand values. 2025 marks the ten-year anniversary for us at PLYR, and we couldn’t be more excited to kick off the year with this partnership and to host an event at the prestigious Banff Springs Golf Course. We look forward to making the Season Kick-Off a memorable experience for everyone involved!”

About PLYR: 

PLYR is a dynamic apparel brand founded in 2015 in Saskatchewan, blending casual streetwear with golf attire. Over the past decade, PLYR has evolved to encompass a broader range of athletic wear, while still staying true to its roots in golf. The brand is committed to challenging the norms of athletic apparel through innovation, sustainability, and style.

In addition to it’s golf heritage, PLYR has grown to offer a variety of athletic options across other sports as well as become a great corporate apparel option for Canadian businesses and sports teams. PLYR Athletics is not just a clothing brand; it’s a movement aimed at empowering individuals to perform their best, both on and off the course. Join us in redefining athletic apparel and pushing the status quo of what’s considered "cool” in athletic apparel. 

We invite you to check out our 2025 Spring Collection, or to explore all of our current products online at www.plyrathletics.com. For wholesale opportunities or more information, please contact Curtis Butler at curtis@cjbutlerventures.ca or reach out to us at info@plyrathletics.com. 

Association News

We are excited to announce that the new Communication & Membership Committee has been formed for the remainder of 2024 and for 2025. Thank you to all the applicants who have volunteered their time and passion to help support our Association.

The new committee consists of:

1. Jeff MacGregor (Chair)
2. Blake Clayton (Board Member)
3. Dallas Cantera (Board Member)
4. Kevin Chow (Board Member)
5. Bryce Halverson (Assistant’s Board)
6. Elizabeth Stewart (Assistant’s Board)
7. Gina Nelson (Assistant’s Board)
8. Andrew Szewczuk
9. Jason Plosz
10. Michael Thompson
11. Nicola Greaves
12. Tyrel Babkirk

This committee was formed after the dissolving of two former committees, Promotion & Communication and Membership & Employment. 

This new committee will meet shortly to review the direction for the PGA of Alberta communication plan along with finding new initiatives that will positively affect the entire membership. 

Association News

Association News

Apply Now to Join The new “Communication & Membership Committee”

The PGA of Alberta’s Membership & Employment Committee along with the Promotions & Communication Committee are both dissolving to form one, unified committee:  Communication and Membership Committee. 

A new application process has been launched.  For all member considering joining the newly created Communication & Membership Committee, please submit a brief cover letter stating why you want to be involved and a summary of your contributions to the Association in recent years.

Please submit all applications to Marlene Sanderson (marlene.sanderson@pgaofalberta.com) before the deadline - October 3rd at 4 PM. 

The new Committee will be announced on October 14, 2024.

Committee Responsibilities:
The Communication & Membership Committee shall meet as a committee up to 4-times per year and at the call of the chairs for:

1. Review PGA of Alberta By-Laws and provide recommendations as required.
2. New Member Orientation.
3. Compensation Survey.
4. Job Posting Standards.
5. Communication & Membership Initiatives.
6. Club Relations.
7. Association Resource Centre.
8. Retention and attraction of golf professionals in Alberta.
9. Review and recommend changes or additions to the Hole in One Program.
10. Discuss how to promote the brand of the PGA of Alberta.
11. Stay aligned and updated on the PGA of Canada employment implementations and strategies.
12. Make recommendations to the Board of Directors concerning PGA of Alberta’s social media policies and platforms.
13. Review and recommend any changes needed to the PGA of Alberta Top 100 Program (point allocation, prize breakdown, Top 100 initiative, etc.).
14. Make recommendations to the Board of Directors for implementing changes within the scope of the committee’s mandate that will be beneficial to members of the PGA of Alberta.
15. Proactively obtain input and suggestions from members on their level of satisfaction with suggestions for improvement of the communication and membership portfolio.
16. Review with the Executive Director any breach of member misconduct and make recommendations for any fines or suspensions to the Board of Directors for any case related to employment or membership.
17. Liaise with other committees as required on operations and activities that may overlap.

The Committee Chair will provide a report on committee activity at each Board of Directors meeting even if no formal committee meetings have taken place.

Top 100 Points - Each member will receive five Top 100 points for being a part of the committee (see more information here).

If you have any questions, please contact marlene.sanderson@pgaofalberta.com.

Association News

In the days and weeks after they were forced to evacuate their homes — and their course — due to a devastating wildfire, Tahlon Sweenie, Troy Mills and the rest of the golf professionals at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge have received an outpouring of support from their PGA of Alberta peers.

That comes as no surprise to those who have been through similar circumstances, who still remember the worrying and wondering, who can provide advice on the rebuild and recovery and, above all else, can relate to what is an emotional rollercoaster.

“Having gone through a natural disaster, I called Tahlon and we had a lengthy conversation,” said Glendale Golf and Country Club’s head professional Jeff MacGregor, who was working at Inglewood when it was one of several Calgary-area hangouts to sustain significant damage during a historic flood in 2013. “He’s a good friend of mine and I just told him, ‘If you need anything, I’m there for you. Because I’ve been there.’ ”

Jason Vaughan, too, was keen to lend his support.

Vaughan was head professional at Fort McMurray Golf and Country Club when a wildfire struck that community in 2016. He and team were evacuated for a grand total of 40 days.

“Tahlon posted a picture on Facebook of him, his family and his dog, all in the car, piled in and leaving,” said Vaughan, still based in Fort McMurray but now as director of golf and grounds at Miskanaw. “And so, I sent him a message — ‘Hey buddy, if you need anything, feel free to give me a shout. I’ve been through this same situation.’

“Looking back on it, I know the exact feeling of just grabbing whatever you can grab and getting in a vehicle and not really knowing where you’re going to go. I just sent him a message saying, ‘Hey, if you need anything, Fort McMurray is here for you. We’re here to help. Because we know your situation.’ ”

Jasper residents were recently allowed to return to their hometown, a magical mountain destination that has attracted millions of tourists over the years. Bing Crosby, Marilyn Monroe and a long list of royals have vacationed here — and played golf during their stay.

There has yet to be an update from Fairmont on any potential damage to Stanley Thompson’s iconic design at Jasper Park Lodge. Both the Resort and Golf Course remain closed, with a recent social media posting that stated: “JPL looks forward to welcoming our colleagues and guests back when the time is right.”

“It just brings you right back to where you were and your immediate reaction is, ‘How do I help?’ ” said Bob Paley, executive professional at Kananaskis Country Golf Course, sharing his reaction to the jarring images from Jasper in late July. “It’s not a case of, ‘Somebody helped me, so now I have to help.’ You’re not keeping score. But you just want to be a part of that same community, because you know what it feels like to be supported.”

The sibling stunners at Kananaskis — home to the Mount Kidd and Mount Lorette layouts — were both destroyed by flooding in June 2013. The facility was ultimately closed for nearly five years but now, after an extensive rebuild, is one of Canada’s great golf comeback stories.

“It’s critical having that network of people that is there to support you, and PGA professionals are a significant part of that posse or that village that I had and anybody in that kind of situation has,” Paley said. “You sort of feel like you’re in the middle of a tornado and they just turn the fans off and just bring some calmness and some perspective that you didn’t have, and maybe even just a pump-up. It’s almost like having siblings. It just felt like I was a part of something, something bigger than I was helping to take care of me.

“I’d just lost my dad the week before the flood and so people were aware of that, as well. People were just genuinely showing care. It wasn’t just, ‘If you need something, let me know.’ People were calling, coming out when it was safe to do so. It was, ‘What do you need? How can we help? Do you have any team members that need work?’ It was incredible.”

Blair McDowell experienced the same after a fire levelled the clubhouse at Northern Bear in mid-January of this year.

Even in the midst of their off-season, his counterparts were filling his voicemail and e-mail inbox.

“I had so many people — golf professionals, general managers, those involved with the PGA of Alberta — reach out to me,” said McDowell, the executive pro at Northern Bear. “It sure felt like a brotherhood. People were trying to lend a helping hand anywhere they could. Anything we needed, if they could, they would like to provide. That was really nice.”

That part isn’t about to change, either.

Whether Sweenie and Mills are looking for temporary jobs for their staff or tee-times for their members, they have a lot of friends that they can lean on.

“I’ll never forget a lot of the golf professionals that helped me out when times were tough,” said MacGregor, recalling that neighbouring superintendents also offered to loan maintenance equipment, helping Inglewood to reopen nine holes about a month after the flood.

Added Vaughan: “There were times when it pulled on the heart strings, just the extra mile that people would go.”

“That’s how it works within our Association, because there are so many damn good people that are looking out for each other,” Paley reasoned. “It’s like that warm, comfortable blanket of support that helps you through these times when you need it. It’s nice to be able to be that blanket. But it’s also nice, when you need that blanket, to have that.”

Alberta’s golf fans have also stepped up and done their part, too. The Rogers Charity Classic, the annual PGA Tour Champions stop at Canyon Meadows, directed $250,000 to Canadian Red Cross Alberta Wildfires Appeal, with that donation coming from ticket proceeds.

But what all of these pros stressed is that the need for help remains long after the flames are extinguished, or the floodwaters recede.

“The initial shock is something, but the rebuild is what I think of,” Vaughan said. “That’s where the support from other people definitely comes in handy to keep you pushing and loving what you’re doing.”

The team at Jaspar Park Lodge can be sure, their family at the PGA of Alberta are there to support them for the long run.

Association News

Golf professionals tee off FREE program, August 23 from 1 – 4 p.m., at Valley Ridge Golf Club

CALGARY—Golf professionals in Alberta are teeing up a drive to break down barriers and make the game more inclusive for people with physical/cognitive disabilities by hosting a community outreach learn-to-play session for people with a disability at Valley Ridge Golf Club.

A FREE program for golfers of any age with physical limitations will be available on August 23 from 1-4 p.m. at the Valley Ridge Golf Club in Calgary. A total of 24 participants will be instructed by six PGA of Alberta Assistants Board members through four, one-hour stations: driving range; putting green; short game area; and activity time. Funded by Jumpstart, equipment will be provided and prizes up for grabs. Registration is still available at www.golfgenius.com/ggid/aw9g3p/register.

“We created this program as a way for our PGA of Canada Golf Professionals to not only assist with instructing the grassroots portion of the game, but to also reach those demographics who can sometimes be unserved when it comes to receiving golf instruction” said Bryce Halverson, Head Associate Golf Professional at Carnmoney Golf Club.

“The PGA of Alberta is committed to elevating the experience for numerous traditionally under-serviced demographics in the community by doing our part to provide positive experiences through golf instruction and activities. We hope to further strengthen the overall local golf community with inclusivity and diversity,” added Stephen Yanitski, Assistant Golf Professional at Valley Ridge Golf Club.

Both Halverson and Yanitski, along with Jumpstart and the PGA of Alberta, created a plan to serve this need, and identified four key community groups to positively impact in 2024: people with a physical disability; Indigenous communities; women/girls; and Els for Autism/Special Olympics in Calgary and Edmonton with the goal of making the game of golf a more welcoming and inclusive place for all to enjoy.

Earlier this summer a one-day summer camp for 16 Indigenous youth was held at Rundle Park Short Course in Edmonton. Calgary-based also led a series of events focused on supporting Els 4 Autism, Aspergers Friendship Society, and Special Olympics. Alberta professionals also introduced more than 70 junior girls and young women to the game.

Association News

We are excited to announce that the new Education Committee has been formed for the remainder of 2024 and for 2025. Thank you to all the applicants who have volunteered their time and passion to help support our Association.

A message from Chair, Todd Halpen:

" We are really looking forward to working closely with the new members of the Committee.  We are extremely pleased the we have members from both Public and Private facilities that will bring in their personal experience and club experiences to help make the education events beneficial for the association. With this committee we are looking to execute long range planning to ensure success for all our events in the future."

The new committee consists of:

1. Todd Halpen (Chair)
2. Miles Mortenson (Board Member)
3. Kevin Chow (Board Member)
4. Shannon Riana (Assistant’s Board)
5. Tyler Leicht (Assistant’s Board)
6. Stephan Yanitski
7. Elizabeth Stewart
8. Chris Horton
9. Stefan Cox
10. John Randle
11. Nic Longley 
12. Doug Repp

The Education Committee will sit with a minimum of 8 Members and maximum of 12 and shall meet as a committee up to 4-times per year and at the call of the chairs for:

1. Spring Seminar.
2. PD Series.
3. Teaching Summits.
4. Buying Show Education.
5. Further education development that works within the scope of the PGA of Canada curriculum.
6. Proactively obtain input and suggestions from members on their level of satisfaction with suggestions for improvement of the education portfolio.
7. Liaise with other committees as required on operations and activities that may overlap.
8. Undertake other activities assigned by the Board of Directors.
9. Review the terms of reference on an annual basis and make any recommendations for change.

The committee chair will provide a report on committee activity at each Board of Directors meeting even if no formal committee meetings have taken place.

Association News

Janelle Istvanffy understands the impact of an event like this. She has experienced it first-hand.

Istvanffy is now an associate professional at Earl Grey Golf Club, proudly playing host this week to the 2024 CPKC Women’s Open. It brings back memories from 1999, when the LPGA Tour paid its first visit to the Calgary area.

“I grew up at Priddis Greens and I remember watching the du Maurier Classic in 1999, when I was just a little kid,” Istvanffy said. “I remember Karrie Webb walked off the 18th green after winning and handed me a golf ball. I still have vivid memories of that.

“It’s fun seeing our juniors now have those same experiences. We hosted a junior Ryder Cup on Saturday (prior to tournament week) and as part of it, we got them to all take pictures in front of the trophy before they teed off. And just seeing their smiles, it was like, ‘That was me, back in 1999.’ You can really see that these are memories that they will carry with them forever.”

It’s not just the junior members at Earl Grey that are in pinch-me mode this week as Brooke Henderson, Lydia Ko and others dig divots on their home turf.

For the staff of seven PGA of Alberta professionals at this private facility, including three women, this is truly something special. 

“It’s been like the dream come true that I didn’t even know I had,” said associate professional Jennifer MacKinnon, who has witnessed the evolution of Earl Grey through a major redesign (2018), a centennial celebration (2019) and now an event that is drawing international eyeballs. “It’s just an opportunity that I feel like I’m so fortunate to be a part of. I’ve been here for eight years, so I’ve gone through all of the construction and changes and I think it’s amazing that the rest of the world gets to see our little slice of heaven.

“And now, to see all these famous people that I never in my wildest dreams thought that I’d be able to be two feet from, it’s just so cool.”

It’s even cooler when those big-name birdie-seekers are heaping praise on your course, when golf fans around the globe are going to be seeing the highlights on TV or on social media.

Earl Grey’s head professional, Pat Wilmot, has encouraged his staff to “take it in, enjoy every moment and be proud of position you’re in and that you’re a part of what built it.” 

They have done precisely that.   

Associate professional Shannon Raina was thrilled to tee it up in the pro-am, strolling the fairways alongside LPGA Tour regulars Bianca Pagdanganan and Jenny Shin. She called it “a top experience of my life” and “a day I’ll never forget.”  

Apprentice professional Josh Berze has been hauling a bag as a caddie.

Istvanffy was among those who attended the CPKC Women’s Leadership Summit on Tuesday, where the speakers included the commissioner of the LPGA Tour and president of the Kansas City Current of the National Women’s Soccer League. Istvanffy described that event as “a 12 out of 10” and added “it really set the stage for a great week because we talked about how we can champion women’s sports.”

“I’m just trying to be a sponge,” MacKinnon said during the hubbub of CPKC Women’s Open week. “Just taking the opportunity to connect with coaches — whether it be a swing coach or a mental coach or physiotherapist — and just watching their practice routines and stuff that I can then take back into my day-to-day role here and share with our members when I’m coaching them. So just trying to soak up as much as possible.”

The members at Earl Grey, regardless of age or gender, are doing the same. Many are volunteering at the tournament.

“I hope it keeps building the love of the game,” Raina said. “Even for myself, I felt reinvigorated by playing in the pro-am. I was like, ‘Man, I want to practice more. I want to play more.’ I saw a couple of our junior members out there and they were watching Brooke Henderson with wide eyes. Maybe this just makes them love golf even more. 

“You don’t have to be a pro golfer, but if you just keep loving the game … If that is what happens, I think that’s incredible.”

MacKinnon, too, has first-hand experience with that.

When the LPGA Tour played at Royal Mayfair Golf Club in Edmonton in 2007, she was among the junior participants in the pro-am. She remembers posing for a photo with Alena Sharp, who has been competing in the CPKC Women’s Open for two decades now. 

“So, it’s kind of coming full circle. It’s cool to be a part of it on this side now,” MacKinnon said. “The more that they get the itch after this week, the better. Shannon already has a huge junior program going here.”

Indeed, there are about 200 juniors at Earl Grey. When they hosted a girls-only night in June, the sign-up sheet filled up fast.

What’s especially meaningful is that when the LPGA Tour stars pack up and head off to the next stop at the Olympic Games in Paris, those youngsters will still have three strong role models in Istvanffy, MacKinnon and Raina.

There can’t be many courses in Canada, or anywhere, with this many females on their professional staff.  

“I think the girls here will grow up seeing that as normal,” Istvanffy said. “And that’s really cool.”

“It’s nice to have them as my co-workers as well as my friends,” Raina added. “The golf industry, for females, is not an easy place to be all the time. But it doesn’t feel like that at Earl Grey because it’s almost like there’s more of us than there are men. It’s super cool, and we’re pretty close. I just think having us together navigating this all is really important.”

Association News

The stats, both in terms of kids impacted and kilometres on the odometer, are mighty impressive.

And Matt Seifert is adamant that he is just getting started.

Seifert is determined to both give back and grow the game. That’s why he just returned from his latest RV road-trip to northern Alberta, travelling from course to course — and from campground to campground — to conduct clinics for juniors and women at facilities that don’t employ a certified teaching pro.

“There’s about 150 courses (across the province) with PGA of Alberta pros,” Seifert said. “And there are just shy of 300 that I’ve found that do not have a pro. My goal is to go to every single one of them. The only problem is it will take me about 10 years.”

That’s not so much a problem as a passion for Seifert, also an instructor at Golf Future in Calgary.

Two summers back, he was on the road for a 24-day stretch. He even made it as far as the Northwest Territories.

He had to cancel his plans in 2023 due to forest fires but was determined to hit the highway again.

“This latest one was 13 days, just me and a truck and trailer,” said Seifert, who covered more than 3,200 kilometres on his most recent roadie and worked with upwards of 500 golfers along the way — roughly 400 juniors, 140 women, and 20 dads or husbands. “I made it all the way up to High Level, which is the most northern golf course in Alberta. I made it to Fairview, where I had probably the best experience I’ve had on the RV tour. I actually had to go back for my day-off because there was such a demand for lessons.”

Seifert knows first-hand that the demand isn’t limited to Alberta’s major centres. 

While he’d started to groove his golf swing as a youngster in Calgary, he was just about to start Grade 10 when his family moved to the village of Linden, a farming community with a population in triple digits.

The nine-hole Acme Golf Club became his home hangout.

“All of a sudden, everything I had in the city, all the golf resources, everything was gone and I was kind of left to fend there for myself,” Seifert said. “But I just worked really hard and there were some people that didn’t know a lot about golf but still inspired me to pursue it as a career when no other kid in town was even looking at golf as a career. So, I was lucky. 

“I guess I’m one of the few professional athletes to ever come out of Kneehill County. So that’s pretty cool for me.”

There have been, in Seifert’s golf journey, plenty of pretty cool moments.  

He’s competed on the mini tours. He’s worked in Australia and New Zealand. He has volunteered at the Hero World Challenge in Bahamas, a star-studded shootout that benefits the Tiger Woods Foundation. That has provided the opportunity to chat with some of the biggest stars in the sport — from Rory McIlroy and Collin Morikawa to Nelly Korda and Michelle Wie and even Tiger himself. Seifert has a cherished photo with the 15-time major champion.  

“I’ve dined with celebrities and I’ve caddied for presidents and I’ve met Tiger Woods,” said Seifert, not boasting but rather explaining why he feels indebted to the game of golf. “I’m like, ‘This shouldn’t have happened to a small-town kid.’ This RV tour means the world to me, because it wasn’t supposed to happen to me. But it did.”

That is exactly why Seifert, who just turned 40, gasses up and hits the road — because he hopes it will eventually happen again for some other kid from some other speck on the map in rural Alberta. 

He plans to focus a little closer to Calgary in 2025, since he’ll soon have a baby at home. He has already started a list of stops in southern Alberta. 

“I’ve had parents who will tell me, ‘I haven’t been able to make my kid smile in two months and all of a sudden, you have them smiling and they want to come back to the golf course the next day,’” Seifert said. “For me, I get emotional just talking about it. But that was my goal to start. It wasn’t about making money. I just wanted to give back to the game of golf. It was if one small-town kid sees my tour bag, like I saw Ron Laugher’s or Dale Tomlinson’s or Greg Griffith’s when I was kid … If one kid decides to pursue golf and they get to live half the life I’ve lived travelling the world, to me that’s it. One kid is enough. 

“I’m very lucky right now that dozens and dozens of these hundreds of kids are starting to think, ‘I want to work in a pro-shop’ or ‘I want to play on the PGA Tour or the LPGA Tour.’

Things like that probably weren’t on their minds until I rolled through.

“I know we’re definitely inspiring a few kids out there. And with kids and sports, that’s what it is all about.”

Association News

The Education Committee would like to announce that the committee has  officially been dissolved and is commencing a new application process.  If you wish to be considered for the Education Committee, please submit a brief cover letter stating why you wish to be involved and a summary of your contributions to the association in recent years.

All submissions should be sent to Thomas Powley (thomas.powley@pgaofalberta.com) before the deadline of July 23rd at 4:00PM. The new committee will be announced by August 2nd.

Responsibilities
The Education Committee shall meet as a committee up to 4-times per year and at the call of the chairs for:

1. Spring Seminar.
2. PD Series.
3. Teaching Summits.
4. Buying Show Education.
5. Further education development that works within the scope of the PGA of Canada curriculum.
6. Proactively obtain input and suggestions from members on their level of satisfaction with suggestions for improvement of the education portfolio.
7. Liaise with other committees as required on operations and activities that may overlap.
8. Undertake other activities assigned by the Board of Directors.
9. Review the terms of reference on an annual basis and make any recommendations for change.

The committee chair will provide a report on committee activity at each Board of Directors meeting even if no formal committee meetings have taken place.

Top 100 Points - Each member will receive 5 Top 100 points for being a part of the committee (see more information here).

If you have any questions, please contact thomas.powley@pgaofalberta.com.

Association News

Program focused on introducing people with a physical disability set for August 16 in Calgary

Golf professionals in Alberta are teeing up a drive to break down barriers and make the game more inclusive for people with physical/cognitive disabilities, Indigenous communities, and women, by hosting a series of community outreach learn-to-play sessions at facilities throughout the province this summer.

Funded by Jumpstart, PGA of Alberta’s Assistants Board will host a series of clinics in Calgary and Edmonton with the goal of making the game of golf a more welcoming and inclusive place for all to enjoy.

“We created this program as a way for our PGA of Canada Golf Professionals to not only assist with instructing the grass roots portion of the game, but to also reach those demographics who can sometimes be unserved when it comes to receiving golf instruction” said Bryce Halverson, Head Associate Golf Professional at Carnmoney Golf Club.

“The PGA of Alberta is committed to elevating the experience for numerous traditionally under-serviced demographics in the community by doing our part to provide positive experiences through golf instruction and activities. We hope to further strengthen the overall local golf community with inclusivity and diversity,” added Stephen Yanitski, Assistant Golf Professional at Valley Ridge Golf Club.

Both Halverson and Yanitski, along with Jumpstart and the PGA of Alberta, created a plan to serve this need, and identified four key community groups they will open doors to, and positively impact in 2024: people with a physical disability; Indigenous communities; women/girls; and Els for Autism/Special Olympics.

A FREE program for golfers of any age with physical limitations will be available on August 23rd from 12 noon – 5 p.m. at the Valley Ridge Golf Club in Calgary. A total of 24 participants will be instructed by six PGA of Alberta Assistants Board members through four, one-hour stations: driving range; putting green; short game area; and activity time. Equipment will be provided and prizes up for grabs. Registration is available at www.golfgenius.com/ggid/aw9g3p/register.

PGA of Alberta golf professionals Shannon Raina (Earl Grey Golf Club) and Tyler Leicht (Derrick Golf and Winter Club) will team up to host a FREE one-day summer camp for up to 16 Indigenous youth at Rundle Park Short Course in Edmonton on August 16, 2024. Participants will receive six hours of FREE instruction, access to equipment, lunch, and a sleeve of golf balls at the conclusion of the camp. Registration details are to follow. 

Calgary-based professionals – Amy Popkes (Silver Springs Golf and Country Club) and Lisa Rosengarten (Glencoe Golf and Country Club) will lead a series of FREE events focused on supporting Els 4 Autism, Aspergers Friendship Society, and Special Olympics.

A Special Olympics Tournament was held at Silver Springs Golf and Country Club, June 20. Additionally, an Els 4 Autism tournament will be held on August 12 at The Links of Gleneagles. Prior to taking the course, all kids will participate in a two-hour instructional clinic as a way to get them involved in the game.

Over the last two months, Elizabeth Stewart (Petroleum Golf and Country Club) and Gina Nelson (Highlands Golf Club) introduced more than 70 junior girls and young women to the game. Four instructors joined forces to teach newcomers to the game in May at Victoria Golf Club. Participants then tested their skills in a fun round of golf at Rundle Park in June, creating an additional opportunity to bring young girls and women around the city together. PGA of Alberta Golf Professionals were on-hand to provide instruction throughout the round. 

“I personally experienced the power sport can have, as a young child and now in my career as a golf professional. Sport and physical activities are fundamental for all of us to learn new skills, boost confidence, build self-esteem,” said Elizabeth Stewart, Associate Golf Professional at Edmonton Petroleum Golf and Country Club. “These clinics will not only introduce kids from these communities to the game, but they will create opportunities to meet other kids, and provide new experiences while having fun putting, playing and just enjoying themselves. Gina and I are hopeful that introducing young girls and women to the sport while representing women in prominent roles in the golf industry will inspire each of them to pursue their goals and success in their own lives. Representation and participation in golf are integral to ensuring this demographic feels that they belong in the golf community.”

Joey Busetto and fellow pros at the Edmonton Petroleum Golf and Country Club will also host two more FREE adaptive golf lessons throughout the summer: July 26 (chipping, pitching, putting) and a three-hole on-course session August 23 where a golf professional will be in each group. Registration is available through the following link: https://www.parasportsab.com/we-offer/adapted-golf-9/.

For more information about the PGA of Alberta, please visit www.pgaofalberta.com.

Association News

Todd Kuczma, beloved son, father, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at the age of 48 years.

Todd was born in Ontario and moved to Alberta when he was four years old. Growing up he moved with his family to Houston, Texas and Red Deer before finally settling in Calgary in 1988. Todd had an incredible sense of humour, (he could make anybody laugh), an easy-going personality, patient, kind and would do anything for the people he loved at the drop of a hat. Todd was friends with everyone he met for life. From an early age, he participated and excelled in sports. He had two great loves in his life – his son, Jake and the game of golf.

In his early twenties, he became a member of the Canadian Professional Golfer’s Association and worked at several golf courses in and around Calgary. In 2015 he left the industry to work for Canadian Engravers. At about the same time he started his own business under Blackwolf Golf Inc. It was a way for his friends and golf associates to participate in high-level golf competitions at affordable rates. Later he was able to successfully add engraving golf merchandise as a significant part of the business.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Kids Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta, 5757 – 4^th Street SE, Calgary, AB  T2H 1K8, www.kidscancercare.ab.ca.

Obituary

Association News

Right from Day 1, Chris Cooke may have been destined to follow his father, Darren, into the golf industry.

Darren has been a staple for the past 36 seasons at Canmore Golf & Curling Club where he serves the dual role of general manager and director of golf. Chris is now the head professional at neighbouring Silvertip Resort, another beauty in the Bow Valley.

“The day that Christopher was born, he didn’t go straight home from the hospital. He came to the golf course first,” Darren reminisced. “There was a group of old guys that played cards in the pro shop all winter long, so we had to come and show him off. So, the first stop was the golf course.

“And ever since then … ” 

Chris grew up at Canmore Golf & Curling Club, as much a constant as the stunning mountain views. It was, as he put it, both his “daycare” and “playground.”

He was only eight when he picked the range for the first time. When he was attending high school just down the street, Darren noticed that his lunch bill at the course was usually doubled. 

After Chris completed his collegiate golf career at the University of Central Arkansas, he ultimately decided to try for his pro card. 

He and his dad are now PGA of Alberta peers. When asked about his son, “proud” is the word that Darren uses most often.

“He always seemed to be where everybody came to have fun,” Chris said, sharing his childhood impressions of the life of a golf pro. “And when you get to work at a place where everybody goes to enjoy themselves, it makes for a pretty good work environment, for the most part. 

“We’re here to facilitate enjoyment, to facilitate camaraderie, to facilitate fun. It’s just such a great sport to be involved with.”

Now in his ninth season as a pro, Chris has even more appreciation for why his father has such a sterling reputation in the golf biz. Darren was the PGA of Alberta’s Club Professional of the Year in 2014. 

“He really cares about everyone else before himself,” Chris said. “There is no job that is too big or too small for him to take on, and I have always really respected him for that. Some people think, ‘Oh, as a golf pro, you just walk the range and teach a few lessons.’ They don’t tell you that sometimes you have to clean the bathrooms or once in a while, you have to do some real dirty jobs that aren’t very glorious. But it’s all about getting it done.” 

Whatever it is that you’re trying to get done, it helps to have somebody you can lean on for advice, experience or just a sounding board. For this father-son duo, that goes both ways. Golf isn’t the Cookes only shared passion. They also like to strap on the pads and tend the nets at the hockey rink.

“We share a lot of conversations back and forth, and I learn a lot from him too,” Darren said. “With the PGA of Alberta and PGA of Canada, it’s always been about networking and helping each other and sharing. Of course, when it’s your family member, sometimes those conversations are easier and sometimes they’re a little more difficult.

“I know in our area, with all of the golf courses, you can ask anybody around here and you’ll get an honest answer about what’s going on. Everybody is willing to help out. And when it’s your son, you answer that phone quickly and maybe get it done a little quicker, because it’s a part of you.”

For the Cookes, golf has been a big part of their lives. This Father’s Day will be extra special for Chris — his first with a child of his own. His daughter, Ruth, was born last August. And yeah, she is already a regular at the course.  

“Through the winter, there was a simulator set up in the Canmore pro shop,” Chris said. “So, I would take her around there quite frequently and we’d hang out with Grandpa and I’d hit a couple shots and she’d be cruising around and she just wanted to grab every golf club or every golf ball she could see. It’s cool to see her so excited already and I just want to continue to expose her to all the greatness that golf can deliver. If she chooses it as one of her pastimes, great. And if not, so be it. She’ll have a lot of other activities going on. But just the way she’s already grabbing that golf club, I think she’s going to be hooked.”

That would be a case of history repeating itself.

“There’s not many places I’d rather be other than the golf course or hanging out with my family,” Chris beamed. “And at the golf course, I get to do both.”

Association News

Mathew MacDonald and Weston Gillett can look out the window and sometimes feel like they’re watching a rewind from their junior-golf days.

That’s one of the unique perks of working as head professional at the same course where you first fell in love with the sport. In MacDonald’s case, that would be Olds Golf Club. Gillett, meanwhile, learned the finer points of the game on the fairways and greens at Lacombe Golf & Country Club. 

“I can’t remember who came up with the term, but I was what they called one of the ‘grapes’ of the pro-shop, because I would just hang around,” MacDonald said with a chuckle. “There were weeks when I was out here seven straight days as a kid. It was basically whenever mom and dad were able to get me to the golf course, I was usually more than willing to go.

“So yeah, I can definitely see a part of myself in some of these youngsters.”

Gillett, his fellow PGA of Alberta pro, knows that feeling.

Long before he had an office at Lacombe Golf & Country Club, he was one of the young whippersnappers with a stall in the junior club storage area. 

Whenever he wanted to practice or play, he’d simply lace up his sneakers and walk to the course. When he arrived, he typically had to empty his pockets.

“Luckily, I didn’t live too far from here,” Gillett reminisced. “Back when I was a kid, the highway wasn’t as busy as it is now. I wouldn’t recommend walking anymore, but it wasn’t that busy back then. 

“So, I’d walk over, and then on the other side of the highway, there’s ball diamonds across

from our ninth hole. I used to walk up between the ball diamonds and the golf course and I’d find tons of golf balls. I remember never having to buy balls because I’d find them as I was walking.”

Gillett had such fond memories of his upbringing at Lacombe Golf & Country Club — and his stints as a high-schooler on the maintenance crew and pro-shop staff — that he admits there was a bit of apprehension as he pondered whether to apply to be the head pro in his hometown. He’s now in his sixth season in the role after making the move from Drayton Valley. 

“This golf course, this Club, it’s always been very important to me because it’s kind of where I grew up, and I didn’t want to go in and have a negative outlook if something were not to be quite as I perceived it,” Gillett explained. “But it’s been really good. It’s all been super positive.”

MacDonald is just getting settled into his new job as pro/manager at Olds. He worked up the road in Innisfail for the past three years. 

“This was always something that was in the back of my mind that I wanted to potentially do,” he said. “I mean, this course kind of gave me my start in the golf world — both as a back-shop kid when I was younger and again as I was starting to make my way into the professional ranks. I’ve always had a soft spot in my heart for the town of Olds and for the golf course. When I had an opportunity to jump up and take the position, I jumped into it with both feet. It’s been a really fun experience so far. It’s very interesting. I always say it’s very weird that I get to sit on the other side of the same desk where I used to get in trouble if I did something wrong out here.

“But it’s been a lot of fun. Pretty cool.”

For Gillett, MacDonald, and other professionals now working at the same facilities where they were first introduced to the game, the best part isn’t the opportunity to occasionally relive their youth. 

 It’s the opportunity to influence the next wave. 

When Gillett was a smooth-swinging junior, Kevin Snell was head pro at Lacombe. He was delighted when Snell, a PGA of Alberta life member, stopped by on his first day on the job to offer his congratulations. 

“I see a lot of kids that come out here, and I see a little bit of myself in them,” said Gillett, now a proud father of three. “I was always treated really, really well by the previous pros when I was kid and they’d take me out to play. I know the first couple times that I played with Kevin when I was 12 or 13 years old, I was just in awe of what he could do with the golf ball. In the grand scheme of things, it wasn’t like Tiger Woods or anything. But to me, it was.

“I can remember walking in the shop and Kevin had his bag there with his name on it, and I thought that was so cool. I thought that was just one step below seeing Tiger Woods.”

MacDonald, too, can rattle off a list of pros who had a major impact on his growing love for golf and instilling the values that you learn while chasing birdies and pars — honesty, integrity, and responsibility to name a few.

“One of the things that I’ve always remembered is that those individuals always made time for me, always took time to say hello or come walk out on the putting green to see how I was doing,” MacDonald said. “They always made themselves very available. They were very generous with their time. And I always try to remember that — that I probably wouldn’t be here in the position that I’m in if it wasn’t for their encouragement, their kindness and their willingness to have that influence on my golf game and my life. I always try to remember that no matter what comes up, it’s the people first and making sure that people feel valued and welcomed. A simple tip on the driving range can go a long way toward helping a relationship grow. In my case, it helped me create a career out of it.”

Association News

Celebrating Jim’s amazing 75 years, Guest Speakers, Tributes and Videos will be full of laughs, smiles and tears.

You can join the Celebration via the live stream link below at 2:00pm on Sunday, June 2nd.

Live Stream Link

Association News

New Economic Impact Study Released

OTTAWA, May 23, 2024 – After a four-year pause due to COVID-19, the National Allied Golf Associations (NAGA) are on Parliament Hill leading National Golf Day and discussing with Parliamentarians the many positive benefits of golf for Canadians.

The golf industry representatives are also releasing the results of a new Canadian Golf Economic Impact Study highlighting golf’s financial contributions and incredible popularity as the number one participation sport in Canada.

National Golf Day also celebrates golf’s physical and mental health benefits, its safe sport attributes, social merits, environmental stewardship, diversity, life skills for youth, and economic value to the business community. National data indicates that hundreds of thousands of Canadians have entered the sport since Covid-19, totaling six million Canadian golfers and further strengthening golf’s status as the number one participation sport in the country.

“Canadians played 74 million rounds of golf in 2023, a considerable 24% increase from the last Study in 2019,” stated Jeff Calderwood, CEO of the National Golf Course Owners Association Canada, and Chair of NAGA.

“Existing golfers have been playing more often and new golfers have been taking up the game at impressive levels,” said Calderwood. “The broad appeal of golf as a safe, healthy, outdoor recreation that can be enjoyed by all ages, genders, abilities, and budgets, anywhere in Canada, generates continued growth in the game. The impressive economic impacts that are then generated reflect that popularity.”

NAGA conducts an economic impact study every five years to measure such financial contributions as employment, charitable support, tourism, and gross domestic product. The sport and business of golf are thriving post-pandemic and continue to be an important economic engine for Canadians and their communities across Canada. Some of the highlights from the Canadian Golf Economic Impact Study include:

• Golf contributes a massive amount to Canada’s GDP at $23.2 billion, an increase of $4 billion since the previous Study
• Golf supports 237,000 person-years of employment, illustrating its importance as a vital source of livelihood for countless Canadians. Nearly 135,000 Canadians work directly in golf, with 45,000 being student employment.
• Golf-related activities generated over $14.2 billion in labour income, sustaining families and generating significant economic spin-off spending.
• $382 million was raised through golf activities for charities across Canada, a return to the pre-Covid-19 range and tops among all participation sports.
• Approximately 6 million Canadians played golf in 2023, an all-time high for the number one participation sport in the country, generating 74 million rounds played.
• Golfer spending totalled $14.2 billion in 2023.
• Golf course operations contributed $8.1 billion to Canada’s GDP.
• Capital expenditure by golf course operations in 2023 was $907 million.
• Taxes paid to governments by the Canadian golf industry were $4.7 billion in 2023.

“Golf is a sport that brings so many benefits to Canadians – not just the economic contributions. It is also a holistic solution to many of life’s necessities and an activity that can enjoyed for a lifetime,” said Laurence Applebaum, CEO, Golf Canada.

“Golf is a healthy, safe activity, promoting environmental stewardship, providing exceptional social value, and is great for business. And importantly, we’re seeing tremendous diversity in our growth with incredible levels of engagement,” said Applebaum. “In addition, the recent success of our Canadian LPGA and PGA Tour Pros has further propelled the enthusiasm for the sport, with such stars on the world stage as Brooke Henderson and Nick Taylor.”

• Other attributes of Canadian golf include:
• 18 holes of golf burns up to 2000 calories, a very healthy 15 km walk and active exercise in nature.
• 95% of golfers in Canada feel that golf is very good for their mental health, which has also been clinically proven.
• 83% of Canadian golfers state that the social aspects of golf are important to them and improve their lives.
• Spectator interest in professional golf is at an all-time high. The RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open are setting records for attendance and commercial success.
• Golf is a trusted Safe Sport environment for both recreational and competitive play.
• Canadian golf has been experiencing great diversity, including a 6% increase in active women golfers and 33% growth in BIPOC golfers in 2023.
• Off-course golf including simulator play and virtual golf experiences have bolstered the growth in participation.
• Sustainable golf has become a leading environmental stewardship movement in Canadian golf, with golf courses throughout the country embracing sustainability pledges and best practices.

Golf flourished during the pandemic as the nature of the sport easily allowed for social distancing while delivering a social recreation experience that could not be found elsewhere.

With golf now better recognized as an important part of the solution, and all of the health, social and economic benefits, the positive spotlight on golf and its impact on Canadian communities has since sustained most of that increased demand.

In summary, the study clearly shows that golf is good for Canada and Canadians.

Association News

For Kim Valleau, this prestigious honour provided a reminder of past success, of her days as a trophy-collecting force on the post-secondary golf circuit. 

It presented a chance, too, to reflect on her path to a career in the sport that she loves. 

Valleau, now head professional at The Winston Golf Club in Calgary, was inducted this past week in the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) Hall of Fame.  

“It’s very meaningful to me,” Valleau said prior to Friday’s enshrinement ceremony in Red Deer. “I just feel like that’s where I really got into golf. I played competitive in high school, but it means a lot because I feel like that’s where I feel like my career in golf kind of started. Even though I didn’t think I’d be a golf pro when I was playing college golf, that’s what it turned into.”

It was abundantly clear, back when she was racking up birdies on behalf of the Mount Royal Cougars from 2003-07, that Valleau had a bright future in golf.

She won the ACAC’s individual crown in five consecutive seasons and helped the Cougars to claim the team title in four of those. Her Hall of Fame bio mentions “an unparalleled legacy of excellence and achievement on the course.” That’s lofty praise. 

“It’s pretty cool,” said Valleau, who hails originally from Nipawin, Sask. “To play college golf, it was a big deal to me. It was very important, a big part of my life. So, it’s nice to be recognized for that.”

It is, indeed, another stellar addition to a resume that also includes a double nod as both the PGA of Alberta’s Class A Professional-of-the-Year and the PGA of Canada’s Stan Leonard Assistant Professional of the Year in 2022. 

As a student-athlete standout at Mount Royal, Valleau earned an applied business degree in entrepreneurship, sport and recreation. While she’d work summer jobs in pro shops, often chasing morning shifts with afternoon rounds or practice sessions, she admits this wasn’t always her intended career path. 

“When I graduated from Mount Royal, I was actually working for the 2009 Tim Hortons Brier as the admin assistant, so I took care of all the volunteers,” Valleau reminisced. “And then our head professional at the time, Wayne Fairbairn, asked me, ‘Hey, do you want to try to get your pro card?’ I said, ‘Sure, I’m not really doing anything after the Brier ends.’ So, I went back to the golf course, took my Player Ability Test, which was two days at the time, and passed. And honestly, the rest is all history.”

Valleau has now been a fixture at The Winston — formerly known as Calgary Elks — for 15 years and was recently promoted to head professional. She is proof of the positive impact of the PGA of Alberta’s mentorship program, having benefitted from the opportunity to learn from her experienced counterparts and now sharing that expertise as a role model for the next wave. 

“I like the connections that you’re able to make through golf, whether it’s somebody that you’re playing with, playing against or serving members or making someone’s day,” Valleau said. “Working in the golf shop, you’re always asking, ‘How was your round?’ And you rarely hear, ‘Oh, I hit it straight sideways today.’ You never hear about the bad shots, right? You hear, ‘Oh, I hit it really close today on Hole 8’ or something like that. You always hear about the good things, which is awesome.”

These days, she should be hearing something else — ‘Congrats, Kim.’ After all, a Hall of Fame induction is a heck of an honour.

Association News

HOLE-IN-ONE INSURANCE is now available for the 2024 golf season! For more information about the HIO program and to submit your event, click the button below. 

TOP 10 BENEFITS OF THE PGA OF ALBERTA HIO PROGRAM

1. Competitive industry rates
2. Prize Premiums available from $500 - $50,000
3. Fixed-rate for field sizes from 32 to 199 players
4. Easy to purchase online
5. Easy payment options
6. Purchase for one event OR an entire season’s worth of events at once
7. Modify your events by contacting the office based on any changes that occur throughout the season
8. Fees/Premiums are waived if the tournament is canceled due to inclement weather
9. No dealing with the insurance company directly
10. Supporting the Association and golf industry

Questions?
If you have any questions on how this program can work for you, please contact Marlene Sanderson by email (marlene.sanderson@pgaofalberta.com) or phone (403-256-8894).

Association News

While this is the start of their busy season, or what some might call their crazy season, you won’t catch any golf professional complaining.

As Matt Johnson, the general manager at Royal Mayfair and president of the PGA of Alberta’s Board of Directors, put it: “This is the start of a pretty heavy sprint, but we all look forward to this time of year. There are no bad days when you’re open in April.”

As April gives way to May, most courses across the province are now up and running for the 2024 season.

“No matter how many years you’ve been doing this, it’s always exciting,” said Tiffany Gordon, who has 35 years of experience in the golf industry — probably just as many awards and accolades — and is now the director of clubhouse operations and membership ambassador at Carnmoney. “You grind down and you do a bunch of work through the winter and you’re always working on new ways to do things or ways to make things better or to keep things going. But you miss the people, right? It’s exciting when you open the gates, and you get everybody out playing golf again. I think that rejuvenates everyone.”

The people are the best — and the biggest — part of this business, which is why the PGA of Alberta has launched a new season-long storytelling campaign to help you get to know the more than 670 golf professionals across the Wild Rose Province.

There are plenty of great, and inspiring, stories to tell.

There are familiar names, those who have chased birdies on some of the biggest stages in the sport, and compelling family connections — spouses, sons following their fathers, a set of twin siblings. There are life members eager to share their years of experience and wisdom and not-so-long-ago junior golf standouts who are now growing the game as mentors and role models for young girls and boys.

Whether at a top-end private club, a dedicated fitting or practice centre or an off-the-beaten-path rural course, the common bond for all PGA of Alberta golf professionals is a passion for this great game and a tremendous pride for their place in it.

“We wear a lot of hats, and we do a lot of things, but most importantly we’re ambassadors for the game,” said Gordon, the PGA of Alberta’s national director. “We could be doing anything from teaching and coaching to running events to managing facilities to playing to heading up associations or being involved at the Board level. There’s really nothing that we don’t touch, and that’s pretty special.

“There’s a number of opportunities for us to lead in the game and what you do is you just promote how good this game is for people, in general. Whether you’re at a private club, a public club, a resort, the most important thing is we’re encouraging people to play the game. Because it’s good for them. It’s good for families. It’s good for couples. It’s good for women. It’s good for every aspect of your community. That’s the great thing about being an ambassador, too, is all that community-driven opportunity that we have.”

Because as the 800,000 golfers across the province — all of them ready to be digging divots rather than shovelling snow — return to their favourite courses to tee up a new season, it’s likely the first face they will see is a PGA of Alberta professional.

“We’re kind of the front desk for your experience at any club,” Johnson said. “We feel like we’re leaders in understanding what the expectation of the golfer is. Nothing against the other departments at the clubs, but we deal one-on-one with the golfers more than anyone else does and so it’s up to us to promote the game of golf, engage people in the game of golf, make it fun, make it enjoyable, and knock down barriers for all to feel welcome and enjoy this game.”

This responsibility is not taken lightly by any of Alberta’s golf professionals – even those cutting their teeth in the business, including Dillon Batsel who is in his sixth year as an associate professional at Desert Blume Golf Course down in Medicine Hat.

“I think all golf professionals understand we are integral to developing a positive culture for people who play golf and enjoy the game at our facilities,” said Batsel. “For me personally, it is all about the people. I love seeing, helping and spending time with people who share my passion for the game.”

Inspired to chase a career in golf by his junior program coordinator, Terry Meidinger, while playing as a youngster growing up in Medicine Hat, Batsel is keen to pay it forward and positively influence a new generation of birdie seekers.

“Watching Terry run our junior program, he cultivated a lot of why I was drawn to golf (helping me understand the role of working in a pro shop) – you have to work hard, play hard because I think while we are busy, it is important to carve out a little time to play. That is important for people to see us playing,” added Batsel, who also particularly looks forward to the return of the adrenaline rush felt while helping guests improve their games.

“I think that is what we all teach for. We strive to put a smile on the face of the person taking the lesson, seeing someone new to the game hit their best shot, or helping someone struggling with a certain aspect of their game overcome it. It is great when you feel like you are marginally responsible for giving them hope.”

That positive sentiment of golf being back is felt by golf professionals opening the tee sheets at public and private courses all around Alberta.

“It’s exciting to be a golf pro at this time of year,” added Johnson. “You wake up in the morning and you look forward to going to work because it’s usually a positive environment. You see people with huge smiles on their faces, especially when they’re coming back to golf. That energy, it’s infectious.”

Association News

Congratulations to the following members on being elected to the Board of Directors on (March 4^th) at the PGA of Alberta Annual General Meeting:

• Dallas Cantera (Cardiff G&CC, newly elected)
• Jeff MacGregor (Glendale G&CC, re-elected)
• Josh Fleming (365 GOLF, re-elected)
• Shawn Lavoie (PGA of Alberta Member, re-elected as Vice President)

Congratulations to the following members on being elected to the Assistants’ Board of Directors:

• Elizabeth Carr (Edmonton Petroleum G&CC, newly elected)
• Gina Nelson (Highlands GC, newly elected)
• Lisa Rosengarten (Glencoe G&CC, re-elected)
• Stephen Yanitski (Valley Ridge GC, re-elected as Vice President)
• Tyler Leicht (Derrick G&WC (The), newly elected)

Click the following links to view the entire Board of Directors or Assistants’ Board.

Association News

Deborah Kathleen Zupan (March 9, 1952 - December 29, 2023)

It is with great sadness that the family of Debbie Zupan announces her passing on Friday, December 29, 2023.

Debbie will be greatly missed by her husband of 49 years, Cyril; her sisters, Susanne Gamache (Darrell), and Charleen Zdril; and her brother, Jerry Elless; and her extended Zupan and Gamache families. She was predeceased by her mother Alice, and father Ted.

Debbie enjoyed the winters in Arizona with her friends down south as well as many trips to Europe and Slovenija.

The family wishes to thank the Doctors, Nurses, and Caregivers of Units 94/91/62/61 at the Foothills Medical Centre, the CareWest Glenmore, and Unit 32 of Honor Health Scottsdale for the comfort and care they provided.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, March 1, 2024, at St. Michael’s Catholic Community (800-85 St SW, Calgary) at 1:00 p.m. Father Edmund Vargus will be presiding. Following the Mass, a reception will be held at the Slovenian Canadian Club at 2335-16aSt SE.

Debbie was an ardent Volunteer for Calgary Meals on Wheels for 26 years. In lieu of flowers, friends and family wishing to make a memorial contribution are invited to donate to Calgary Meals on Wheels (5759 80th Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2C 4S6) or at calgarymealsonwheels.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Deborah Kathleen Zupan Click Here

Association News

With a strong background in community sport, Thomas Powley has been given the nod to fill the role of Education and Community Lead for PGA of Alberta effective, February 1.

A recent graduate of Mount Royal University’s Health & Physical Education program with a major in Sport & Recreation Management, Powley brings an unwavering passion for the sport industry in Canada to Alberta’s golf industry. He began his professional career at Lululemon Athletica where he has served multiple positions including Product Operations Lead and Educator.

“Thomas brings energy, drive and a keen understanding of the golf community to this important administrative position,” said Robert Rousselle, Executive Director, PGA of Alberta. “We look forward to having him on our team as we continue to work towards better serving our more than 650 Members while delivering improved programming and events they need and deserve.”

Reporting to the Executive Director, Powley will work closely with the Tournament and Communications Coordinator as well as the Communications advisor. He will also be responsible for overseeing the partners; as well as supporting all staff members with administrative duties.

Powley brings a strong skillset in time management, proficiency in computer systems, and experience in event coordination and social media management to the position. His passion for events and engagement combines knowledge and creativity working with social media and as an independent freelance videographer.

Powley is also an accomplished athlete and aspiring coach. He played varsity rugby at Mount Royal University and is committed to giving back to the community through helping young athletes in sport. Powley was a sport development summer camp instructor at WinSport in 2019 and with aspiring alpine skiers learning to race competitively.

Please join us in welcoming Thomas Powley to the PGA of Alberta.

Association News

JAMES (JIM) HADLEY JEMPSON
April 29, 1948 – January 13, 2024

Jim, beloved husband of Shelley, suddenly yet peacefully passed away at the age of 75 surround by his loving Family.

Jim was a Loyal & Proud Husband, Father, Papa, Son, Brother, Uncle and Friend.  A Legend & Mentor in the Golf Industry and a cheerleader to us all in Life and Sport.

Jim leaves behind a community who have been profoundly impacted by his Guidance, Wisdom and Compassion. His genuine care for others has forever shaped the lives of those fortunate enough to have known him.

Born in Calgary in 1948 in the Community of Parkhill, Jim’s passion for Sports began at an early age. His Dad, Jimmy, was a professional hockey player & he was determined to follow in his footsteps.  

 After graduating from Viscount Bennett in 1966, Jim worked for Bud Loftus as a caddy at the Calgary Golf & Country Club, where he fell in Love with the property.  After 2 years at the club, he changed sports and moved to BC where he played Hockey for the Nelson Maple Leafs. Jim was proud to tell anyone who would listen, that he was part of the 1968 Cyclone Taylor Cup Championship Team.

In 1970 Jim was offered and accepted a Hockey Scholarship at Bemidji State University in Minnesota, where he was also a member of the golf team. After coming to the realization that he wasn’t going to make the NHL, Jim told us it was time to make a Life Decision, either Audition for Slap Shot 2 with Paul Newman and Hanson Brothers or “Get on with Life”. He chose to get on with Life and what a life it was!!

After moving back to Calgary With No Money and No Job, Jim returned to a familiar place to look for work, Willow Park Golf & Country Club.  His parents were original Members there, and Jim grew up playing Junior and Intermediate golf at the club.  Head Pro Bill Quilley hired him in April of 1971, Jim said he turned in his hockey stick and skates for a re-spike wrench, a shag bag to hand pick balls on the range and a wet towel to clean clubs.

By the end of June, he was the only Pro shop employee left and his probationary apprenticeship was in full swing resulting in a career that spanned over 50 years.

His passion for golf led him to the Royal Mayfair Golf and Country club in Edmonton under the leadership of Derek & Irene Gibson. Jim then accepted his first Head Professional job at Sturgeon Valley.  While in Edmonton, Jim and Shelley got together and eventually purchased a home in St. Albert.  According to Jim her contribution was the down payment and three children, his contribution was the mortgage payment and three used cars!

In 1982 Willow Park Golf & Country Club came calling!  Jim was offered & accepted the Head Professional Position. Shelley joined Jim in the Pro Shop which was the best move for “Me and Us” according to Jim.  As independent concessionaires, the dynamic duo in life and in business were recognized with numerous awards for their talent in merchandising and sales.

Jim has been the recipient of some notable awards and competitions including 1976 PGA of Alberta Championship, 1997 PGA Club Professional of the Year and 2003 PGA of Alberta Merchandiser of the year. Most recently Jim was recognized as the 4th member to receive the PGA of Alberta Lifetime Achievement Award in the Leadership Pillar.  Jim was also very proud to be a Life Member of the PGA of Canada.

Over his storied career Jim had the opportunity to play with Legends including Moe Norman, George Knudson, Stan Leonard, Chi Chi Rodriguez, Bob Charles and the Great Arnold Palmer.

Jim was also a philanthropist at heart and during his lifetime he and Shelley contributed personally to numerous charities. The one that held a special place in his heart was the Willow Park Charity Classic.  It all began in 1988 with a simple conversation, a glass (or two) of Scotch and notes on a napkin between Jim and Willow Park owner Amos Carpenter. Together that day they created something very special. To date the tournament has donated over 12.7 million dollars to various Calgary Charities.

Jim was “guilty” of sending out handwritten letters of congratulations and encouragement to award winners and new head professionals. He encouraged them to be faithful to their profession and pass on their skills to those that follow.

Jim encouraged them to make a difference in their pursuit of golf excellence.

Outside of Golf, Jim and Shelley loved to travel with trips to Bermuda, Florida, Palm Springs, Arizona, California, Cook Islands, Scotland, England and Wales just to name a few. Maui was their special place, where for over 30 years they enjoyed fun in the sun with their family and friends.

In retirement, Jim & Shelley spent many days travelling around Alberta watching their grandsons play hockey and lacrosse.  Jim always said he was on a personal mission to find the perfect arena hot dog!

"To the world he was a man, to us he was the world”

Jim is survived by his loving wife Shelley, his faithful fur buddy Oakley, his Children Kim Carrington (Joanne Johnson)

• Martin Carrington
• Tanya & Trevor Forbes, Grandsons Cody & Cale
• Sister Ismay Seyer, Sister in Law Laurie Martin
• Numerous & loving Nieces and Nephews
• Jim was predeceased by his Mother Ismay and his Father Jim

We are grateful to the incredible team of Doctors and Nurses at the Rockyview General Hospital Coronary Care Unit for the kindness & compassion given to Jim and our Family during the short time he was in their care.

A Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held at a later date.

In Lieu of Flowers donations can be made to:

Rockyview General Hospital Coronary Care Unit

Heart & Stroke Foundation

Canadian Cancer Society

Association News

Interested in running for a position on either the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors or Assistants’ Board of Directors in 2024? If yes, click the link below (login required) for more information and to be directed to the online Nomination Form. Deadline to submit your interest is this Friday, January 19th, 2024 at 11:59pm.

Board of Directors
The Board of Directors sets all policies, rules and regulations for the PGA of Alberta, meeting on a quarterly basis to conduct the business affairs on behalf of the members.  There are between nine and twelve members elected to the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors, all are Class "A" members of the PGA of Canada. Elections to the Board are held every year at the Annual General Meeting in March and election terms are set at three years.

Four (4) spots are open for election in 2024 for the Board of Directors. Click here to see the current Board.

Assistants’ Board of Directors
Assistant Professionals (Class "A") and Apprentice Professionals also have a voice in the Association, through the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Up to nine Class "A" members or Apprentice Professionals are invited to run annually for two-year Committee terms on the Assistants’ Board of Directors, and upon election assume a portfolio, and attend Committee meetings consistent with those on the Board of Directors. 

Five (5) spots are open for election in 2024 for the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Click here to see the current Assistants’ Board.

If you have any questions, please email brendan.ethier@pgaoflaberta.com.

Click Here to Submit Your Nomination

Association News

PGA of Alberta Welcomes Chris Dornan as New Communications Advisor

In an effort to raise awareness of its members, events and programs throughout the province, the PGA of Alberta has named accomplished communications consultant, Chris Dornan, in a newly-created role of communications advisor.

Dornan has come a long way from his days of play-by-play commentary of the games and exploits of his siblings and friends on a quiet cul-de-sac in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, to becoming one of Canada’s most prolific sports PR consultants.

The common thread? Storytelling. And creativity.

Dornan has provided media and public relations support over the last 25 years, specializing with many of Canada’s amateur and professional athletes and sport organizations. Having represented Canada at nine Olympic and five Paralympic Games, along with countless major international events, Dornan opened his own communications consulting company in 2008 — High-Performance Public Relations – where he provides communications support to Own the Podium along with a number of Canada’s summer and winter sport organizations. He has played a key role in building brand and media opportunities for many of Canada’s most successful athletes.

Having launched his career with Golf Canada (1997-2000), Dornan has since made a professional return to the sport as the media director for two of the PGA TOUR’s leading Champions Tour events: Shaw Charity Classic (Calgary) and Insperity Invitational (The Woodlands, TX) where he continues to work closely with the TOUR communications and business affairs teams, along with the players at each of his events. Dornan has also continued to support Golf Canada’s communications team over the years when called upon: providing advice and counsel while serving on communications committees; leading Olympic Team announcements; and he was the lead media advisor on-the-ground for Canada’s golf team at the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games in November.

“There is an obvious professional and business fit with bringing Chris on board to support our increasing operational responsibilities, while helping to tell the important stories of the people in our membership,” said Robert Rousselle, executive director, PGA of Alberta. “A strategic and creative thinker, Chris brings a wealth of media and communications experience and relationships in and outside of our community to the role, with extensive knowledge of the golf industry in Alberta, across Canada and internationally.”

A journalism graduate of Ryerson Polytechnic University in Toronto (now Toronto Metropolitan University), Dornan spent two years in a public relations agency with a client-base that included: Molson, Nike Canada; and Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment before moving west to Calgary to take on the role of director of communications with the Calgary Olympic Development Association (now WinSport) for six years. He has also worked as a news reporter with CTV in Saskatoon, and as a freelance writer for numerous magazines and newspapers across the country.

Dornan has also done work for the Canadian Olympic Committee, Canadian Paralympic Committee, Alberta Government, WestJet, Kyle Shewfelt Gymnastics, Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton, Luge Canada, Triathlon Canada, Ski Jumping Canada, Nordiq Canada, Hockey Canada, Swimming Canada, Curling Canada, Speed Skating Canada, Taekwondo Canada, Karate Canada, Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame, Canadian Sport Institute Calgary, Edge Sport School, Canada Winter and Summer Games and Haywood Securities.

He and his wife Lisa are raising two “Texadians” – born in Texas and now enjoying life as dual citizens – who have fallen in love with the Calgary community while making friends and learning important life lessons as they pursue their own love of sport and play on the ice, at the ballpark, in the pool, and while working with PGA of Alberta golf professionals at their home course, Pinebrook Golf and Country Club.

For more information on his work, please visit www.chrisdornan.ca

Association News

Featured Facility Friday

Looking to promote your facility this off-season? Take advantage of the Associations social media initiative where we feature a new facility every Friday in the off-season on our X and Instagram accounts (~ 8,500 followers!).

How It Works

All you have to do is submit the required information on the form (see link below) to have your facility featured! Please note that facilities will be selected at random and all information must be filled in to be considered (unless noted as optional on form). In the event we have more submissions than Fridays available, we will store your information to be used the following off-season.

Important

To prevent having multiple submissions from the same facility, please collaborate with your staff/team to ensure only one application is sent for the initiative.

Prize Giveaway

As you’ll see in the form, please let us know if your facility is willing to donate a prize giveaway to help increase engagement with your post! This is OPTIONAL and not mandatory but will help increase the amount of viewers for your post. Prize could be green fees, merchandise, lesson, gift card, golf simulator usage, etc. As part of this giveaway, viewers will need to follow your facility’s account along with other conditions in order to be eligible to win.

Past Examples

Below are a few posts from past years. This will give you an idea of the exposure your facility will receive as part of this initiative:

• Example #1 - Apple Creek GC - Click here to see post
  • Apple Creek GC gained 55 followers in the four days after the post
  • 2,683 impressions on post
  • 154 likes on post
• Example # 2 - Edmonton Petroleum G&CC - Click here to see post
  • Edmonton Petroleum G&CC gained 51 followers in the four days after the post
  • 2,749 impressions on post
  • 194 likes on post
• Example #3 - Stewart Creek G&CC - Click here to see post
  • Stewart Creek G&CC gained 99 new followers in the four days after the post
  • 3,792 impressions on post
  • 326 likes on post

If you want your facility featured, DEADLINE to submit the form is January 31st, 2024. If you have any questions, please contact brendan.ethier@pgaofalberta.com. PLEASE NOTE - Priority will automatically be given to facilities that were not part of the initiative last year.

CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT FORM

Pro Tip Tuesday

Pro Tip Tuesday is a social media initiative that showcases your skills as a Golf Professional to help bring exposure to you and your facility. The Association wants to give golfers a reason to check out the PGA of Alberta Instagram account, including your own! We will start posting Pro Tip Tuesday submissions in January.

How Do You Become A Part Of Pro Tip Tuesday?

All you need to do is create a quick tip video between 30 seconds to 2 minutes and submit using the Dropbox link below. One video will be posted per week during the off-season beginning in January.

In addition to golf instruction tips, we are allowing other categories of submissions for Pro Tip Tuesday including the following:

• Fashion tips - Types of apparel to wear on certain days, clothing accessories, latest fashion trends, etc.
• Technology tips - Different technologies to utilize to improve game, technology features most golfers are unaware of, new technology in the golf industry, etc. 
• Rules of Golf tips - New rules in the game, common rules the average player is unaware of, proper rule procedures, etc.
• Etiquette tips - Things the average player should be doing on the golf course, how to best fix a divot/ball mark, pace of play etiquette, etc.

Video Tips

1. Be Professional. You are representing the Association so ensure you look and act the part.
2. Intro. State your name, club, and position as the intro to your video.
3. Length. Ensure your video is between 30 seconds to 2 minutes.
4. Rehearse. Practise your video tip a few times before the final "shoot".
5. Setting. Make sure there’s no noise/visual distractions around you so viewers can focus on you. Your video can be shot indoors or outdoors.

Look at past examples of Pro Tip Tuesday videos for inspiration:

• Example #1 - Click Here
• Example #2 - Click Here
• Example #3 - Click Here

Top 100 Points

Everyone who participates in Pro Tip Tuesday will earn 3 Top 100 points for the program year. You can only receive 3 points per year. We recommend doing more than one video but a max of 3 points will be rewarded for the Top 100 program.

Deadline

Deadline for submission is January 31, 2024.

CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT FORM

Dropbox Link > CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT VIDEO WHEN COMPLETE

Association News

Interested in running for a position on either the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors or Assistants’ Board of Directors in 2024? If yes, click the link below (login required) for more information and to be directed to the online Nomination Form. Deadline to submit your interest is Friday, January 19th, 2024 at 11:59pm.

Board of Directors
The Board of Directors sets all policies, rules and regulations for the PGA of Alberta, meeting on a quarterly basis to conduct the business affairs on behalf of the members.  There are between nine and twelve members elected to the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors, all are Class "A" members of the PGA of Canada. Elections to the Board are held every year at the Annual General Meeting in March and election terms are set at three years.

Four (4) spots are open for election in 2024 for the Board of Directors. Click here to see the current Board.

Assistants’ Board of Directors
Assistant Professionals (Class "A") and Apprentice Professionals also have a voice in the Association, through the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Up to nine Class "A" members or Apprentice Professionals are invited to run annually for two-year Committee terms on the Assistants’ Board of Directors, and upon election assume a portfolio, and attend Committee meetings consistent with those on the Board of Directors. 

Five (5) spots are open for election in 2024 for the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Click here to see the current Assistants’ Board.

If you have any questions, please email brendan.ethier@pgaoflaberta.com.

Click Here to Submit Your Nomination

REMINDER - SAVE DRAFT FEATURE
You can save your forms online before submitting. Please follow the steps below:

1. You must be logged into your account to be able to save your draft
2. Save Draft button is located at the bottom of every form on the website
3. To find Saved Drafts, please go to "My Account" or "Manage Account" > My Saved Drafts
4. Click "Edit" beside the form you want to update
5. Submit when finished

Association News

The PGA of Alberta Mentorship Program (separate from the PGA of Canada Mentorship Program) provides guidance and direction to first-year Members of the Association. The objective of the Mentorship Program is to create a group of Members who are passionate about their careers, the Industry and Association, leading to long-term commitment in the golf industry.

Click Here to see Program Feedback from Mentors/Mentees

IMPORTANT

Members must have their Class "A" status within the Association in order to be a Mentor. We are in need of Mentors in all geographical locations of the province. We want to ensure the best support possible for our new Apprentice Professionals and this will be accomplished by pairing a Mentee with a Mentor that lives in a close proximity.

Expectations of Mentors

• Commit to your Mentor/Mentee relationship(s) for a minimum of 1-year.
• Be accountable for your Mentee and provide continuous support on an ongoing basis as needed.
• Set parameters of the relationship with the Mentee and create a plan for goals/objectives on what both parties want achieve.
• Attempt to meet in person with your Mentee twice (spring & fall). For example, this can be accomplished over a round of golf or at an Association tournament/event.
• Provide feedback to the office by completing the Mentor Evaluation Form when required.

Top 100 Points
All Mentors will receive 5 Top 100 points max. for their involvement in the Mentorship Program. These points are awarded annually. All Mentors must execute the action items as indicated and submit the Evaluation Form before being eligible to receive points. Points are ONLY awarded for the first-year of your pairing.

Become A Mentor in 2024
If interested in being involved, click the link below to submit the "Become A Mentor" form by January 31st, 2024. After the form has been submitted, you will be added to the Mentor list (if eligible) and MAY be assigned a Mentee in February (depending on total number of Mentors/Mentees, and geographical location).  

Click Here for Mentor Form

Become A Mentee in 2024
All new Members of the Association are automatically signed up to be a Mentee in the program. If you received your card in 2023, you will AUTOMATICALLY be assigned a Mentor in February of 2024.

If interested in being a Mentee and you are not a new Member as stated above, please contact  robert.rousselle@pgaofalberta.com at the PGA office for more information. Mentors are assigned based on several factors including geographical location to the Mentee.

2024 Day Planner

There are only 6 hard copies of the 2024 Day Planner left!

If you want to purchase one of these, contact Marlene Sanderson marlene.sanderson@pgaofalberta.com. The digital version is also available now for download (click link below).

Download 2024 Day Planner

Association News

In 2003, Alan was the first PGA of Alberta Member to be awarded the Master Professional designation, a title that only 14 members in Canada held at that time. Today, Alan is one of three Master Professionals in Alberta and 25 in Canada. In 2016, Alan was selected by the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors as the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award in the Teacher Category. Alan becomes the third Member in Alberta to receive this prestigious Award. 

On behalf of the PGA of Canada & Alberta, thank you for: 

1.  Your unwavering loyalty.
2. Your relentless efforts developing your leadership facilitator skills.
3. Being a long-standing role model for professionals in Alberta.
4. Your pride, representation and commitment to the PGA of Canada & Alberta.

Association News

The PGA of Alberta is proud to present 4 bursaries each year to deserving Apprentice Professionals and/or Class "A" Assistant/Teaching Professionals who meet or exceed the Bursary criteria. The Association is pleased to continue awarding each bursary amount at $1,000 each! (previously $750).

All seasonal and year-round Apprentice Professionals and Class "A" Professionals (who are not employed as Head/Executive Professionals) are eligible and encouraged to apply. A minimum of two of the bursaries will be reserved for seasonal Apprentice Professionals (working 9-months or less). All Information will be held in strict confidence.

Deadline to apply for a bursary is September 30th, 2023 (end of day). The bursaries will be awarded at the Awards Banquet on Wednesday, October 19th.

*Save Draft Feature*
Please remember you can save your applications online before submitting. This allows you to complete an application form intermittingly rather than all at once. Please follow the steps below.

1. You must be logged into your account to be able to save your draft. 
2. Save Draft button is located at the bottom of every application form on the website.
3. To find Saved Drafts, please go to "My Account" or "Manage Account" and click ’My Saved Drafts’.
4. Submit when finished!

Click Here for Application Form

Association News

Congratulations to our 2023 Cobra Puma Golf Assistants’ Team for a third consecutive year of Victory in the InterZone Championship at the PGA Assistants’ Championship of Canada presented by Callaway Golf at the Ranch G&CC! It was a hard fought and exciting two-day InterZone competition with 6 Teams battling for National bragging rights and a total purse of $3,450.00. 

Wes Heffernan, Mitchell Fox, David MacComb & Michael Harrison made up the 2023 Team and started the competition with an encouraging Round 1 Team Gross score of -6 but knew they’d need something special for Round 2 with Team Ontario coming out firing. Something special did indeed happen and our Team carded a scorching Round 2 Team Gross score of -9 which saw them vault into the lead after starting the day 1-stroke down to the Leaders from Ontario. They finished the two round event at a Team Gross of -15 and just nudged Ontario for the Title by 1-stroke;  Wes fired a -5, Mitch a -3 and David a -1 during Round 2 which just was enough to prevail and keep the hardware in Alberta for another year!

Check out the Leaderboard by clicking here. 

PGA of Canada Article

Association News

We are deeply saddened to announce the recent passing of PGA of Alberta member Bill Dreger.

Bill has been a lifelong member of the Association becoming a Class "A" member of the PGA of Canada in 1994 and receiving his 25-year milestone in 2020. He passed away in 2023 at the age of 57 years.

William Darcy Dreger, "Billy" born in Didsbury, Alberta has passed away in his beloved mountains of the Bow Valley. He is survived by his wife Mayuko, sons, Benjamin and Yoshi Dreger of Canmore, two sisters, Joy Hoerle of Red Deer, AB. and Gaye Pauls of Calgary, AB, plus numerous other family members.

He will also be greatly missed and deeply mourned by his second family, the Canmore golf community.

Please join for a Celebration of Bill’s Life on Wednesday, September 13th at 2:00 pm at the Canmore Golf and Curling Club.

No flowers by request. Friends wishing to remember Billy are encouraged to make contributions in support of the Canmore Junior Golf program at the Canmore Golf Course in his memory.

Call Emily at the Canmore G&CC directly at 403-678-5959  ext. 236 if donating by CC.  She will process payment and email the receipt.

                                OR

etransfer@canmoregolf.net and provide a note saying it is for Junior Golf or Bill Dreger.

Association News

We are excited to announce that the new Membership & Employment Committee has been formed for the remainder of 2023 and for 2024. Thank you to all the applicants who have volunteered their time and passion to help support our Membership.

A message from Co-Chairs, Jeff MacGregor & Blake Clayton:  

"Jeff and I are looking forward to working closely with the new members of the Committee.  We are extremely pleased the we have Members from both Public and Private facilities that will bring in their personal experience and club experiences to help engage in constructive conversation to make sure all sides of the business are represented."

The new Committee consists of:

1. Jeff MacGregor (Co-Chair)
2. Blake Clayton (Co-Chair)
3. Nic Longley
4. Tyrel Babkirk
5. Michael Thompson
6. Leif Hanson
7. Nicola Greaves
8. Bryce Halverson
9. Michael Nutt

The Membership & Employment Committee will sit with a minimum of 8 Members and maximum of 12 and will meet at minimum twice annually to address and review the PGA of Alberta’s Membership & Employment related matters.

Committee Responsibilities list below for a general outline of what is expected from Committee members.

1. PGA of Alberta By-Laws.
2. New Member Orientation.
3. Compensation Survey.
4. Job Posting Standards.
5. Membership & Employment Initiatives.
6. Club Relations.
7. Association Resource Centre.
8. Retention and attraction of Golf Professionals in Alberta.
9. Proactively obtain input from fellow members on their level of satisfaction of the Membership & Employment portfolio and consider suggestions for improvement.
10. Interacting with other Committees as required on operations and activities that may overlap.
11. Undertake other activities as may be assigned by the Board of Directors from time to time.
12. Review the Terms of Reference on an annual basis and make any recommendations for change.
13. Review with the Executive Director any breach of member misconduct and make recommendations for any fines or suspensions to the Board of Directors for any case related to employment or membership.

Association News

After much thought and consideration, the Co-Chairs of the PGA of Alberta Membership & Employment Committee have decided to formally Dissolve the Committee and are excited to announce the commencement of the Application Process to join the new 2023/2024 Committee. Please reach out to either Co-Chair (Jeff MacGregor & Blake Clayton) or Robert Rousselle (robert.rousselle@pgaofalberta.com) or Aaron Mckay (aaron.mckay@pgaofalberta.com) with any questions, comments or application documents.

In the interests of creating a diverse Committee that is representative of the entire PGA of Alberta Membership the application process is open and will run until end of day, 11:59 PM on Sunday, July 30th.
All interested Members are invited to apply and letter of intent stating their motivations for joining the Committee and any relevant experiences they feel make them a strong candidate for joining.

The new Committee roster will be announced by the end August, 2023.

The Membership & Employment Committee will sit with a minimum of 8 Members and maximum of 12 and will meet at minimum twice annually to address and review the PGA of Alberta’s Membership & Employment related matters.

Please refer to the Committee Responsibilities list below for a general outline of what is expected from Committee members.

1. PGA of Alberta By-Laws.
2. New Member Orientation.
3. Compensation Survey.
4. Job Posting Standards.
5. Membership & Employment Initiatives.
6. Club Relations.
7. Association Resource Centre.
8. Retention and attraction of Golf Professionals in Alberta.
9. Proactively obtain input from fellow members on their level of satisfaction of the Membership & Employment portfolio and consider suggestions for improvement.
10. Interacting with other Committees as required on operations and activities that may overlap.
11. Undertake other activities as may be assigned by the Board of Directors from time to time.
12. Review the Terms of Reference on an annual basis and make any recommendations for change.
13. Review with the Executive Director any breach of member misconduct and make recommendations for any fines or suspensions to the Board of Directors for any case related to employment or membership.

Committee Agreement Form & Member Declaration.

Association News

PGA of Alberta Member Katy Rutherford of Silver Springs G&CC had a memorable week and great showing  at the ORORO PGA of Canada Women’s Championship finishing with Co-Low PGA Professional Honours at Kingsville G&CC  in Ontario and an overall T-6th finish for the event!

Check out Katy’s two rounds by clicking the links below.

Tue, July 4 - Katy Rutherford - Round 1
Wed, July 5 - Katy Rutherford - Round 2 

Full Results and Purse Breakdown can be seen here

Katy featured on the "On The Bag" content segments done by the PGA of Canada and can viewed by clicking here.

Click here for full article on the PGA of Canada website by Brendan Stasiewich.

Association News

Applications are now open for the PGA of Alberta Junior Scholarship Program!

One of the main focuses of the PGA of Alberta has been supporting Junior Golf.  Alberta Golf Professionals use their expertise to create, organize, and facilitate junior-oriented events.

The Scholarship Program is another step in the overall development of our current programming. The program provides junior golfers from around the province the opportunity to be recognized for their outstanding achievements, while promoting and providing access to continuing education. Over 60 scholarships have been presented since 1998.

 For more details, criteria, and to apply, please click here.
Applications close end of day on Monday, July 31, 2023.

Association News

Our Hole In One Insurance program, provided by, NFP Canada Corp. in partnership with the PGA of Alberta. NFP Canada Corp. is proud to offer a minimum $500 policy coverage to our Members and Western Canada.

Don’t have a section in your Corporate Tournament Package about Hole In One Insurance? 

Want to stir up some excitement for your guests?  Add a HOLE IN ONE CASH PRIZE contest at your event and give your guests a chance to win some money!

Any cash prize amount between $500 to $50,000 (or more!) per hole can be included for your event. Contact your Event Coordinator or Head Professional for pricing or with any questions you may have.

Not only will offering Hole in One cash prizes create excitement at your event,  it can also provide the perfect sponsorship opportunity for your partners.

Click the button below for the following...

Please contact the Marlene Sanderson (marlene.sanderson@pgaofalberta.com) with any enquires regarding Hole In One Insurance.

Association News

We are deeply saddened to announce the recent passing of Industry Member Nevin Thompson. He passed away last week at the age of 77 years. Nevin had a lengthy career as a Salesman and worked for Sunice / Bobby Jones for many years.  

Our thoughts are with Nevin’s family and friends during this difficult time. Click the link below for his obituary.

Click Here for Obituary

Association News

Webinar #5 has been confirmed and will cover "Work/Life Balance and Mental Health Resources"

In the world of professional hockey, what plays out behind closed doors is just as important as what plays out on the ice itself. Former professional goaltender, Hockey Night in Canada broadcaster and NHL on Sportsnet analyst Kelly Hrudey will take us behind the scenes of his 15-year career with the NHL, sharing stories he lived from both inside and outside the locker room and work life balance while playing in the NHL.  Kelly is an advocate for mental health awareness and has multiple foundations he represents to continue to spread the word and end the stigma.

Click Here for Full Bio

This will be the last of five webinars produced by the assistants board with the intention of providing professional development for all assistants within the industry. This will produce an avenue for networking and relationship building so members can continue to further their careers.

If you have any questions for Kelly, please write it in the comment box when registering.

 Registration will open tomorrow, Friday, April 7th for the Seniors’ Division #1 Event at Lakeside GC just east of Calgary in Chestermere and is set for Tuesday, July 4th with Tee Times starting at 9:00 AM. 

Click here for Event & Registration details.

Association News

Pricing is set and confirmed for the 2023 season for our Hole In One Insurance program, provided by, NFP Canada Corp. in partnership with the PGA of Alberta. NFP Canada Corp. is proud to offer a minimum $500 policy coverage to our Members and Western Canada.

Don’t have a section in your Corporate Tournament Package about Hole In One Insurance? 

Want to stir up some excitement for your guests?  Add a HOLE IN ONE CASH PRIZE contest at your event and give your guests a chance to win some money!

Any cash prize amount between $500 to $50,000 (or more!) per hole can be included for your event. Contact your event coordinator for pricing or with any questions you may have.

Not only will offering Hole in One cash prizes create excitement at your event,  it can also provide the perfect sponsorship opportunity for your partners.

Click the button below for the following...

Please contact the Marlene Sanderson (marlene.sanderson@pgaofalberta.com) with any enquires regarding Hole In One Insurance.

Association News

There is one week left to vote in the 2023 Board of Directors and Assistants’ Board Elections; make sure you get your vote in now! Voting is being conducted via Simply Voting again this year so check your inbox for your Election Information message if you haven’t voted already. Voting closes at 9:45 AM sharp during the AGM on Monday, March 6th. 

Board of Directors Election (5 Nominees)

Four (4) spots are open for election in 2023 for the Board of Directors. Online voting via Simply Voting officially opened on Tuesday, February 14th and will close just after the start of the AGM on March 6^th, 2023. 

Assistants’ Board of Directors Election (13 Nominees)
Four (4) spots are open for election in 2023 for the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Online voting via Simply Voting officially opened on Tuesday, February 14th and will close just after the start of the AGM on March 6^th,  2023.

Click here to see this year’s Board Nominees (login required)

Click here to Register for AGM

Association News

The 2023 Election window for the Board of Directors and Assistants’ Board officially opened on Tuesday, February 14th and will close after the start of The Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Monday, March 6th, 2023, at The Derrick Golf and Winter Club (3500 119 St NW) in Edmonton.
Start time will be 9:00 AM and voting will close at 9:45 AM.

Board of Directors Election (5 Nominees)

Four (4) spots are open for election in 2023 for the Board of Directors. Online voting via Simply Voting officially opened on Tuesday, February 14th and will close just after the start of the AGM on March 6^th, 2023. 

Assistants’ Board of Directors Election (13 Nominees)
Five (5) spots are open for election in 2023 for the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Online voting via Simply Voting officially opened on Tuesday, February 14th and will close just after the start of the AGM on March 6^th,  2023.

Click here to see this year’s Board Nominees (login required)

Click here to Register for AGM

Association News

The application process to become a Mentor for the Mentorship Program is open until day’s end of Friday, February 24th. If you are interested, check out the Mentorship Program page here and click here to view the Application Form.

The PGA of Alberta Mentorship Program provides guidance and direction to new Members of the Association (Apprentice Professionals). Developed in conjunction with the Assistants’ Board of Directors, the objective of the Mentorship Program is to create a group of Members who are passionate about their careers, the industry and Association, leading to long-term commitment to the golf industry.

Top 100 Points…
Mentors - All Mentors will receive 5 Top 100 Points for their involvement in the Mentorship Program. Points are awarded annually in September. All Mentors must execute the action items as indicated and submit the Evaluation Form before being eligible to receive the points. Points are only awarded for the first year of the program.

Click Here to view Program Feedback from Mentors/Mentees

Association News

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Members of the Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta will be held on Monday, March 6th, 2023, at The Derrick Golf and Winter Club (3500 119 St NW) in Edmonton. Start time will be 9:00am.

Board of Directors Election (5 Nominees)

Four (4) spots are open for election in 2023 for the Board of Directors. Online voting via Simply Voting will officially open on Tuesday, February 14^th and will close just after the start of the AGM on March 6^th, 2023. 

Assistants’ Board of Directors Election (13 Nominees)
Four (4) spots are open for election in 2023 for the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Online voting via Simply Voting will officially open on Tuesday, February 14th and will close just after the start of the AGM on March 6^th,  2023.

Click here to see this year’s Board Nominees (login required)

Click here to Register

Association News

The PGA of Alberta is pleased to introduce Michelle Moody as the newest member to the Zone staff in the position of Events & Membership Coordinator. Michelle’s role will consist of the coordination and execution of the Consumer Shows, the Buying Show and the Membership portfolio to name a few. The Consumer Golf Shows are fast approaching and the upcoming Spring Seminar and AGM  will be the first opportunities for her to meet some of the Membership in person. 

Michelle graduated from Mount Royal University in Event Management, has a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and a minor in Behavioral Sciences from Ambrose University. She is passionate in the field of event planning, marketing and communication. She can now be reached by email at michelle.moody@pgaofalberta.com. 

Click here to view entire staff listing

Association News

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the members of the Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta will be held in-person on Monday, March 6^th at The Derrick G&WC in Edmonton, prior to the start of the Spring Seminar. Start time of the AGM will be 9:00am.

Top 100 Points - Members will receive 3 Top 100 points for attending the AGM

Sign Up Today - Register to ensure you receive all information for this year’s AGM

Click Here to Register (login required)

Association News

Interested in running for a position on either the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors or Assistants’ Board of Directors in 2023? If yes, click the link below (login required) for more information and to be directed to the online Nomination form. Deadline to submit your interest is Friday, January 20th at 11:59pm (1 week from today).

Board of Directors
The Board of Directors sets all policies, rules and regulations for the PGA of Alberta, meeting on a quarterly basis to conduct the business affairs on behalf of the members.  There are between nine and twelve members elected to the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors, all are Class "A" members of the PGA of Canada. Elections to the Board are held every year at the Annual General Meeting in March and election terms are set at three years.

Four (4) spots are open for election in 2023 for the Board of Directors. Click here to see the current Board.

Assistants’ Board of Directors
Assistant Professionals (Class "A") and Apprentice Professionals also have a voice in the Association, through the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Up to nine Class "A" members or Apprentice Professionals are invited to run annually for two-year Committee terms on the Assistants’ Board of Directors, and upon election assume a portfolio, and attend Committee meetings consistent with those on the Board of Directors. 

Five (5) spots are open for election in 2023 for the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Click here to see the current Assistants’ Board.
  

Click Here to Submit Your Nomination

Association News

The Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! The office will be closed starting December 19th and will open again on Tuesday, January 3rd, 2023. We look forward to reconnecting with everyone in the new year.

Read More

Association News

Interested in running for a position on either the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors or Assistants’ Board of Directors in 2023? If yes, click the link below (login required) for more information and to be directed to the online Nomination form. Deadline to submit your interest is Friday, January 20th, 2023 at 11:59pm.

Board of Directors
The Board of Directors sets all policies, rules and regulations for the PGA of Alberta, meeting on a quarterly basis to conduct the business affairs on behalf of the members.  There are between nine and twelve members elected to the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors, all are Class "A" members of the PGA of Canada. Elections to the Board are held every year at the Annual General Meeting in March and election terms are set at three years.

Four (4) spots are open for election in 2023 for the Board of Directors. Click here to see the current Board.

Assistants’ Board of Directors
Assistant Professionals (Class "A") and Apprentice Professionals also have a voice in the Association, through the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Up to nine Class "A" members or Apprentice Professionals are invited to run annually for two-year Committee terms on the Assistants’ Board of Directors, and upon election assume a portfolio, and attend Committee meetings consistent with those on the Board of Directors. 

Five (5) spots are open for election in 2023 for the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Click here to see the current Assistants’ Board.

Click Here to Submit Your Nomination

REMINDER - SAVE DRAFT FEATURE
You can save your forms online before submitting. Please follow the steps below:

1. You must be logged into your account to be able to save your draft
2. Save Draft button is located at the bottom of every form on the website
3. To find Saved Drafts, please go to "My Account" or "Manage Account" > My Saved Drafts
4. Click "Edit" beside the form you want to update
5. Submit when finished

Association News

We are deeply saddened to announce the recent passing of PGA of Alberta member Andy Black. Andy has been a lifelong member of the Association becoming a Class "A" member of the PGA of Canada in 1973 and receiving his 25-year milestone in 1998. He passed away in December at the age of 77 years.

Andy had a notable career as the Head Professional of Earl Grey GC in Calgary which lasted 27 years before he retired in 2004. During that span, Andy won the PGA of Alberta Seniors’ Championship in 1998, and won again two years after he retired in 2006, making him one of eight members to win multiple Seniors’ Championships. Our thoughts are with Andy’s family and friends during this difficult time.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, December 17th at 2:00pm at the Earl Grey Golf Club in Calgary.

Association News

The Compensation Survey is a very important tool for the Association as it provides our membership the most current earning potential in each area of the province based on their position.  The more surveys that are filled out, the more accurate both the averages and high/low points will be.

Please take 5-10 minutes to fill out the survey. Once completed, you will be sent a copy of the results.

Important Aspects of the Compensation Survey

• Each member will only be able to submit one survey for approval between Oct 1 - Sept 30 each year.
• Top 100 Points - Every Member will receive 5 Top 100 points for completing the survey!
• Your information will be kept confidential and will be used only for statistical purposes.
  
  

Association News

The PGA of Alberta Mentorship Program (separate from the PGA of Canada Mentorship Program) provides guidance and direction to first-year members of the Association. The objective of the Mentorship Program is to create a group of members who are passionate about their careers, the industry and Association, leading to long-term commitment in the golf industry.

Click Here to see Program Feedback from Mentors/Mentees

IMPORTANT: Members must have their Class ’A’ status within the Association in order to be a Mentor. We are in need of Mentors in all geographical locations of the province. We want to ensure the best support possible for our new Apprentice Professionals and this will be accomplished by pairing a Mentee with a Mentor that lives in a close proximity.

Expectations of Mentors…

• Commit to your Mentor/Mentee relationship(s) for a minimum of 1-year
• Be accountable for your Mentee and provide continuous support on an ongoing basis as needed
• Set parameters of the relationship with the Mentee and create a plan for goals/objectives on what both parties want achieve
• Attempt to meet in person with your Mentee twice (Spring & Fall). Ex. This can be accomplished over a round of golf or at an Association tournament/event
• Provide feedback to the office by completing the Mentor Evaluation Form when required

Top 100 Points…
All Mentors will receive 5 Top 100 Points max. for their involvement in the Mentorship Program. These points are awarded annually. All Mentors must execute the action items as indicated and submit the Evaluation Form before being eligible to receive points. Points are ONLY awarded for the first-year of your pairing.

Become A Mentor in 2023…
If interested in being involved, click the link below to submit the "Become A Mentor" form by January 31, 2023. After the form has been submitted, you will be added to the Mentor list (if eligible) and MAY be assigned a Mentee in February (depending on total number of Mentors/Mentees, and geographical location).

Click Here for Mentor Form

Become A Mentee in 2023...
All new members of the Association are automatically signed up to be a Mentee in the program. If you received your card in 2022, you will AUTOMATICALLY be assigned a Mentor in February of 2023.

If interested in being a Mentee and you are not a new member as stated above, please contact trevor.rioux@pgaofalberta.com at the PGA office for more information. Mentors are assigned based on several factors including geographical location to the Mentee.

Association News

The PGA of Alberta is pleased to present four bursaries annually of $1,000 each (previously $750) to deserving Class "A" Assistant and Apprentice Professionals that meet or exceed the Bursary criteria. Congratulations to this year’s recipients who were announced at the Awards Banquet on October 19th:

• Chris Donihee, Mickelson National GC
• Katy Rutherford, Silver Springs G&CC
• Stefan Anderson, Lakeside GC
• Tyler Leicht, The Derrick G&WC

Thank you to everyone who applied for a bursary this year. 

Read More

Association News

The PGA of Alberta is proud to present 4 bursaries each year to deserving Apprentice Professionals and/or Class "A" Assistant/Teaching Professionals who meet or exceed the Bursary criteria. The Association is pleased to increase the bursary amount this year to $1,000 each! (previously $750).

All seasonal and year-round Apprentice Professionals and Class "A" Professionals (who are not employed as Head/Executive Professionals) are eligible and encouraged to apply. A minimum of two of the bursaries will be reserved for seasonal Apprentice Professionals (working 9-months or less). All Information will be held in strict confidence.

Deadline to apply for a bursary is September 30th at 11:59pm. The bursaries will be awarded at the Awards Banquet in Calgary on Wednesday, October 19th.

*Save Draft Feature*
Please remember you can save your applications online before submitting. This allows you to complete an application form intermittingly rather than all at once. Please follow the steps below.

1. You must be logged into your account to be able to save your draft. 
2. Save Draft button is located at the bottom of every application form on the website.
3. To find Saved Drafts, please go to "My Account" or "Manage Account" and click ’My Saved Drafts’.
4. Submit when finished!

Click Here for Application Form

Association News

The 2023 Play Golf Alberta Junior Masters presented by Sundog Eyewear and Tour Tee, is an invitational event open to Alberta residents 18 years of age and under as of August 1^st, 2023. Please read below the updated eligibility guidelines for next year’s event.

In alignment with Golf Canada’s National Championship Eligibility Guidelines, a player’s age as of August 1^st, 2023, is used to determine eligibility.

There will be thirty-nine spots for boys and twenty-one spots for girls in total to form the field of sixty players.  Invitations for the 2023 PGA of Alberta Junior Masters will be sent in March 2023 to all eligible players.

Players qualify in the U19, U17, and U15 Divisions based on results from the 2022 Alberta Golf Provincial Championships and 2022 Maple Leaf Junior Tour Order of Merit Standings (highest ranked results by age division).  

Player Exemptions
Two discretionary exemptions are also available per gender events.  Applications for these exemptions must be submitted to the Junior Masters Committee no later than March 31^st, 2023. Please submit the online exemption form prior to this date. Click here for form.

If there are no accepted exemptions from the four reserved invitations they will be distributed as follows:

• 1 - U17 Flight - Boys
• 1 - U15 Flight - Boys
• 1 - U19 Flight - Girls
• 1 - U15 Flight - Girls

If a player is unable to accept the invitation, the next highest-ranked player based on the set criteria below will be invited to take this spot.

• U19 Boys Division (12)
  • 4 eligible players from the U19 Provincial Championship results
  • 2 eligible players from the U17 Provincial Championship results
  • 3 eligible players from the MJT OOM (Alberta, Junior Boys)
  • 3 eligible players from the MJT OOM (Alberta, Juvenile Boys)

• U17 Boys Division (15)
  • 4 eligible players from the U17 Provincial Championship results
  • 3 eligible players from the U15 Provincial Championship results
  • 4 eligible players from the MJT OOM (Alberta, Juvenile Boys)
  • 4 eligible players from the MJT OOM (Alberta, Bantam Boys)

• U15 Boys Division (10)
  • 3 eligible players from the U15 Provincial Championship results
  • 2 eligible players from the U13 Provincial Championship results
  • 3 eligible players from the MJT OOM (Alberta, Bantam Boys)
  • 2 eligible players from the MJT OOM (Alberta, Peewee Boys)

• U19 Girls Division (13)
  • 4 eligible players from the U19 Provincial Championship results
  • 3 eligible players from the U15 Provincial Champion results
  • 6 eligible from the MJT OOM (Alberta, 15-19 Girls)

• U15 Girls Division (6)
  • 2 eligible players from the U15 Provincial Championship results
  • 1 eligible player from the U13 Provincial Championship results
  • 3 eligible players from the MJT OOM (Alberta, U15 Girls)

U15 Divisions Yardage:  To ensure the competition is set up using fair standards for all players, competitors in the U15 Divisions will play from reduced yardage, however, they will forfeit the opportunity to compete for the overall title.  Players in these divisions who wish to compete for the overall title must indicate their intention to waive this opportunity at the time of registration.

*New for 2023 – The overall winner will automatically receive an invitation to participate in the next year’s Junior Masters as long as they meet the age eligibility.

Read More

Association News

The PGA of Alberta is proud to award five Junior Scholarships of $1,000 each to deserving candidates this year. Three of the Scholarships are awarded to children of PGA of Alberta Members and two are awarded to competitive junior golfers in Alberta who meet specific criteria. We are pleased to award the following individuals the 2022 scholarships:
  


Thank you to everyone that applied this year. We wish everyone the best of luck in their post-secondary education.

Click here for more information on the Scholarship Program

Association News

The mission of the PGA of Alberta is to provide junior golfers from around the province the opportunity to be recognized for their outstanding achievements, while promoting and providing access to continued education. This program has presented over 60 scholarships since 1998.

Scholarships Available

The PGA of Alberta is proud to increase the total number of scholarships available this year. In total, the Association will award 5 Junior Scholarships of $1,000 each to deserving candidates in 2022! See scholarship breakdown below.

• 3 scholarships will be awarded to children of PGA of Alberta Members who meet the scholarship criteria (no golf experience needed). Applicants are able to win this scholarship twice.
• 2 scholarships will be awarded to Alberta Junior boys and girls who meet the scholarship criteria (golf experience required). Applicants can win this scholarship once.
  

Deadline to Apply

Deadline to apply for a scholarship this year is Sunday, July 31st (end of day). Online application forms and accompanying information must be sent to the PGA of Alberta office no later than this date.

Click Here to Apply

Association News

Add some excitement to your tournaments and club leagues this season by purchasing Hole in One Insurance through the PGA of Alberta HIO program! In partnership with Foster Park Brokers Inc., the HIO program provides members and non-members the opportunity to purchase affordable HIO insurance for your club, corporate, and charity events!

Click Here for Member Testimonials

Denominations That Can Be Purchased
Any denomination from $500 to $50,000 per hole can be purchased online. Should you wish to purchase more than $50,000 per hole, please contact marlene.sanderson@pgaofalberta.com for a custom quote. On coverage up to $100,000, PGA of Alberta members will always receive the best possible premium from Foster Park Brokers.

Benefits of PGA of Alberta HIO Program

• Competitive industry rates
• Low prize limit amounts available for purchase (under $5,000)
• Fixed rate for field sizes from 32 to 199 players
• Easy to purchase online
• Purchase for one event OR for an entire season worth of events at once
• Modify your events by contacting the office based on any changes that occur throughout the season
• Fees/Premium waived if tournament is cancelled due to inclement weather
• No dealing with the insurance company directly
• Supporting the Association and golf industry

How To Purchase
Coverage can be easily purchased on the PGA of Alberta website with the following steps:

1. Login to the website and select ‘My Hole In One’ under ’Manage Account’ or ’My Account’
2. Select the ’Create New Event’ button
3. Follow the step-by-step instructions that will guide you through the easy purchasing process. It’s as simple as that!

*If you are a non-member of the PGA of Alberta and interested in purchasing, please contact Marlene Sanderson at the PGA of Alberta office (see contact info below).

Questions
If have any questions on how this program can work for you, please contact Marlene Sanderson (E: marlene.sanderson@pgaofalberta.com or P: 403-256-8894 / TF: 1-888-866-6140).

Click Here to Purchase

Association News

One of the main focuses of the PGA of Alberta has been supporting junior golf to help grow the game. Golf Professionals in Alberta use their expertise to create, organize and facilitate junior-oriented events including the annual Play Golf Alberta Junior Masters. The Scholarship Program is another important step in the overall development of our current programming.

The mission of the PGA of Alberta is to provide junior golfers from around the province the opportunity to be recognized for their outstanding achievements, while promoting and providing access to continued education. This program has presented over 60 scholarships since 1998.

Scholarships Available

The PGA of Alberta is proud to increase the total number of scholarships available this year. In total, the Association will award 5 Junior Scholarships of $1,000 each to deserving candidates in 2022! See scholarship breakdown below.

• 3 scholarships will be awarded to children of PGA of Alberta Members who meet the scholarship criteria (no golf experience needed). Applicants are able to win this scholarship twice.
• 2 scholarships will be awarded to Alberta Junior boys and girls who meet the scholarship criteria (golf experience required). Applicants can win this scholarship once.
  

Deadline to Apply

Deadline to apply for a scholarship this year is July 31st (end of day). Online application forms and accompanying information must be sent to the PGA of Alberta office no later than this date.

Click Here to Apply

Association News

Congratulations to Stephen Yanitski of Valley Ridge GC on being elected as the new Vice President of the PGA of Alberta Assistants’ Board of Directors.

Stephen has been a member of the Assistants’ Board since the beginning of 2020 and has been actively involved in the Association including sitting on the Education Committee. He is also the recipient of the PGA of Alberta Junior Leader of the Year Award in 2021.

The Association would also like to welcome Robbie Johnson (Banff Springs GC) as the newest member to the Assistants’ Board. The Board is in great hands moving forward with President Bryce Halverson (Carnmoney GC) and the other Board members all striving towards making a positive impact for the Association and Assistant Professionals.

About the Assistants’ Board of Directors...
Up to nine Class "A" Members or Apprentice Professionals are invited to run annually for two-year terms on the Assistants’ Board of Directors, and upon election assume a portfolio, and attend Committee meetings consistent with those on the Board of Directors.
  

Association News

Congratulations to the following members for reaching their 25 & 50 Year milestone as a Class "A" Member of the PGA of Canada in 2022! All members were recognized at the Annual General Meeting on March 16^th for their outstanding dedication to the Association and golf industry. With such an accomplishment, the National office will recognize each members milestone with a special gift!

50 Years

• Ed Engelhardt (River’s Edge GC)
• Russell Farrell (Life Member)

25 Years

• Brent MacDuff (Coal Creek GR)
• Garett Jenkinson (Golf Performance Canada at Total Golf)
• Gord Courage (The Hamptons GC)
• Gregg Schubert (The Track)
• James King (Belvedere G&CC)
• Jeff Cuthbertson (Stony Plain GC)
• Michael Hogan (Glencoe G&CC Teaching Centre)
• Phil McCluskey (River Bend G&RA)
• Scott Allred (Elbow Springs GC)
• Scott Westman (The Ranch G&CC)
• Todd Jurak (Sylvan Lake G&CC)
• Trevor Ellerman (Desert Blume GC)

Association News

Add some excitement to your tournaments and club leagues this season by purchasing Hole in One Insurance through the PGA of Alberta HIO program! In partnership with Foster Park Brokers Inc., the HIO program provides members and non-members the opportunity to purchase affordable HIO insurance for your club, corporate, and charity events!

Click Here for Member Testimonials

What Denominations Can I Purchase?
Any denomination from $500 to $50,000 per hole can be purchased online. Should you wish to purchase more than $50,000 per hole, please contact marlene.sanderson@pgaofalberta.com for a custom quote. On coverage up to $100,000, PGA of Alberta members will always receive the best possible premium from Foster Park Brokers.

What are the Benefits of PGA of Alberta HIO Program?

• Competitive industry rates
• Low prize limit amounts available for purchase (under $5,000)
• Fixed rate for field sizes from 32 to 199 players
• Easy to purchase online
• Purchase for one event OR for an entire season worth of events at once
• Modify your events by contacting the office based on any changes that occur throughout the season
• Fees/Premium waived if tournament is cancelled due to inclement weather
• No dealing with the insurance company directly
• Supporting the Association and golf industry

How Do I Purchase?
Coverage can be easily purchased on the PGA of Alberta website with the following steps:

1. Login to the website and select ‘My Hole In One’ under ’Manage Account’ or ’My Account’
2. Select the ’Create New Event’ button
3. Follow the step-by-step instructions that will guide you through the easy purchasing process. It’s as simple as that!

*If you are a non-member of the PGA of Alberta and interested in purchasing, please contact Marlene Sanderson at the PGA of Alberta office (see contact info below).

Questions?
If have any questions on how this program can work for you, please contact Marlene Sanderson (E: marlene.sanderson@pgaofalberta.com or P: 403-256-8894 / TF: 1-888-866-6140).

Click Here to Purchase

Association News

Congratulations to the following members on being elected to the Board of Directors today (March 16^th) at the PGA of Alberta Annual General Meeting:

• Chris Paskin (Valley Ridge GC, re-elected)
• Dale Tomlinson (The Winston GC, re-elected as President)
• Matt Johnson (Royal Mayfair GC, re-elected as Vice President)
• Jason Stanier (Inglewood G&CC, re-elected)

Congratulations to the following members on being elected to the Assistants’ Board of Directors:

• Bryn Quickstad (Windermere G&CC, newly elected)
• Lisa Rosengarten (Glencoe G&CC, newly elected)
• Michael Nutt (Kananaskis Country GC, newly elected)
• Stephen Yanitski (Valley Ridge GC, re-elected)

Click the following links to view the entire Board of Directors or Assistants’ Board.

Association News

The Annual General Meeting of the Members of the Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta will be held this week on Wednesday, March 16^th starting at 10:00am MST. The AGM will be held virtually through Zoom. Please see the below updates for the meeting.


Special Guest – We are pleased to announce that recent PGA of Canada Hall of Fame Inductee Mr. Don Price (pictured above) will be a special guest at the AGM. Don will be recognized for his contributions to the Alberta Zone which includes some of the following; being a Board Member for over 10 years, the Zone National Director, and serving as Association President from 1976 - 1980. He is also a two-time PGA of Alberta Lifetime Achievement Award recipient in both the Leadership and Association Builder pillars. Don will also be saying a few words at the meeting!

Board Elections – Voting for the Board and Assistants’ Board Elections is being executed online through a secure voting platform. Deadline to vote is March 16^th, just after the start of the AGM. Please contact trevor.rioux@pgaofalberta.com if you have not received an email for voting instructions. Please note there will be no floor nominations.

Top 100 Points - Members will receive 3 Top 100 points for attending the virtual AGM. Members MUST attend the live stream to receive points. No points will be given for watching the recorded version of the AGM.

Click Here for more information on the AGM

Association News

Please be reminded to submit your vote for the 2022 PGA of Alberta Board of Directors and Assistants’ Board elections if you have not done so already. If you are a member of the PGA of Alberta and did not receive an email with instructions on how to vote, please contact trevor.rioux@pgaofalberta.com.

Board of Directors Election (8 Nominees)
Four spots are open for election for the Board of Directors. Voting will close just after the start of the AGM on March 16^th.

Assistants’ Board of Directors Election (7 Nominees)
Four spots are open for election for the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Voting will close just after the start of the AGM on March 16^th.

Click here to see this year’s Board Nominees (login required)

Association News

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Members of the Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta will be held virtually this year due to the Spring Seminar moving to a virtual format. The date of the virtual AGM will be on Wednesday, March 16, 2022, beginning at 10:00am MST. The AGM will be hosted through the Zoom platform. Click here to register for the AGM.

Board of Directors Election (8 Nominees)
Four spots are open for election in 2022 for the Board of Directors. Online voting will officially open on Tuesday, February 22nd and will close just after the start of the AGM on March 16th.

Assistants’ Board of Directors Election (7 Nominees)
Four spots are open for election in 2022 for the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Online voting will officially open on Tuesday, February 22^nd and will close just after the start of the AGM on March 16^th.

Click here to see this year’s Board Nominees (login required)

Association News

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Members of the Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta will be held virtually this year due to the Spring Seminar moving to a virtual format. The virtual AGM will be held on Wednesday, March 16, beginning at 10:00am. The AGM will be hosted through the Zoom platform.

Top 100 Points - Members will receive 3 Top 100 points for attending the virtual AGM. Please note - Members MUST attend the live stream to receive points. No points will be given for watching the recorded version of the AGM.

Sign Up Today - Register to ensure you receive all information for this year’s AGM. Information will be sent in the week prior to the AGM including the agenda, 2021 financial statements, and meeting Zoom link.

Click Here to Register (login required)

Association News

The PGA of Alberta Mentorship Program (separate from the PGA of Canada Mentorship Program) provides guidance and direction to first-year Members of the Association. Developed in conjunction with the Assistants’ Board of Directors, the objective of the Mentorship Program is to create a group of Members who are passionate about their careers, the industry and Association, leading to long-term commitment in the golf industry.

CLICK HERE to see Program Feedback from Mentors/Mentees

IMPORTANT: Members must have their Class ’A’ status within the Association in order to be a Mentor. We are in need of Mentors in all geographical locations of the province. We want to ensure the best support possible for our new Apprentice Professionals and this will be accomplished by pairing a Mentee with a Mentor that lives in a close proximity.

Expectations of Mentors…

• Commit to your Mentor/Mentee relationship(s) for a minimum of 2-years
• Be accountable for your Mentee and provide continuous support on an ongoing basis as needed
• Set parameters of the relationship with the Mentee and create a plan for goals/objectives on what both parties want achieve
• Attempt to meet in person with your Mentee twice (Spring & Fall). Ex. This can be accomplished over a round of golf or at an Association tournament/event
• Provide feedback to the office by completing the Mentor Evaluation Form when required

Top 100 Points…
All Mentors will receive 5 Top 100 Points max. for their involvement in the Mentorship Program. These points are awarded annually. All Mentors must execute the action items as indicated and submit the Evaluation Form before being eligible to receive points. Points are only awarded for the first-year of your pairing.

Become A Mentor in 2022…
If interested in being involved, click the link below to submit the "Become A Mentor" form by February 18, 2022. After the form has been submitted, you will be added to the Mentor list (if eligible) and MAY be assigned a Mentee in March (depending on total number of Mentors/Mentees, and geographical location). Please ignore this form if you have already expressed interest in being a Mentor.
  

Click Here for Mentor Form

Become A Mentee in 2022...
All new members of the Association are automatically signed up to be a Mentee in the program. If you received your card in 2021 or 2022, you will AUTOMATICALLY be assigned a Mentor in March of 2022.

If interested in being a Mentee and you are not a new member as stated above, please contact trevor.rioux@pgaofalberta.com at the PGA office for more information. Mentors are assigned based on several factors including geographical location to the Mentee.

Association News

If you are interested in running for a position on either the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors or Assistants’ Board of Directors in 2022, please click the link below (login required) for more information and to be directed to the online Nomination form. Deadline to submit your interest is Tuesday, January 18th, 2022 (end of day).

Board of Directors
The Board of Directors sets all policies, rules and regulations for the PGA of Alberta, meeting on a quarterly basis to conduct the business affairs on behalf of the Members.  There are between nine and twelve Members elected to the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors, all are Class A Members of the PGA of Canada. Elections to the Board are held every year at the Annual General Meeting in March and election terms are set at three years.

Four (4) spots are open for election in 2022 for the Board of Directors. Click here to see the current Board.

Assistants’ Board of Directors
Assistant Professionals (Class A) and Apprentice Professionals also have a voice in the Association, through the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Up to nine Class A Members or Apprentice Professionals are invited to run annually for two-year Committee terms on the Assistants’ Board of Directors, and upon election assume a portfolio, and attend Committee meetings consistent with those on the Board of Directors. 

Three (3) spots are open for election in 2022 for the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Click here to see the current Assistants’ Board.

Click Here to Submit Your Nomination

REMINDER - SAVE DRAFT FEATURE
You can save your forms online before submitting. Please follow the steps below:

1. You must be logged into your account to be able to save your draft
2. Save Draft button is located at the bottom of every form on the website
3. To find Saved Drafts, please go to "My Account" or "Manage Account" > My Saved Drafts
4. Click "Edit" beside the form you want to update
5. Submit when finished

Association News

We are deeply saddened to announce the recent passing of PGA of Alberta member Drake Mason. He passed away in December of 2021 at the age of 66 years. Drake had worked at a number of golf facilities in Alberta which include Pheasantback GC, Edmonton Springs GR, and Billy D’s Driving Range.

Drake joined the Association in 1978 and received his 25-Year milestone as a Class "A" Member in 2008. A Memorial Service was held for him on December 27^th, 2021 in Edmonton.

Our thoughts are with Drake’s family and friends during this time. Click the link below for his obituary.

Click Here for Obituary

Association News

The PGA of Alberta wishes everyone a Happy New Year and a fantastic 2022 Golf Season which is a few short months away! Our office will be open again starting on Tuesday, January 4^th. Click here for staff directory.

Association News

The Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta would like to wish everyone and their families a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Our office will be closed starting December 20^th and will be open again on Tuesday, January 4^th.

Read More

Association News

We are deeply saddened to announce the recent passing of former PGA of Alberta Member and PGA of Canada member Richard "Rick" Martison. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by family at Foothills Hospital in Calgary, Alberta on November 19th at the age of 78.

Rick joined the PGA of Canada in 1965 and in 67-68 became one of the first Canadians to play on the Australian Tour. After his touring career, Rick shifted focus back to Canada and in 1971 landed the head professional role at Silver Springs Golf and Country Club where he remained for 25 years before retiring. Five years later Rick found himself drawn back to the golf industry where he served as the General Manager at Country Hills where he finished out his career in 2006.

Our thoughts are with Rick’s family and friends during this difficult time. Click the link below for obituary.

Click Here for Obituary

Association News

We are deeply saddened to announce the recent passing of former PGA of Alberta President and PGA of Canada member Kevin Vincent Hunter. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by family at Victoria Hospital in London, Ontario on November 10^th at the age of 70.

Kevin joined the PGA of Canada in 1973 and was the President of the PGA of Alberta from 1983 - 1984. As per his request, there will be no funeral. Celebrations of life with Kevin’s friends and family have, and will continue to take place privately. A more public celebration of life will take place in the springtime.

Our thoughts are with Kevin’s family and friends during this difficult time. Click the link below for obituary.

Click Here for Obituary

Association News

Pro Tip Tuesday is a social media initiative created in 2019 that will show off your skills as a Golf Professional and help bring exposure to you and your club. The Association will give golfers a reason to check out the PGA of Alberta Instagram account, including your own! We will start posting Pro Tip Tuesday submissions in December.

How do you become a part of Pro Tip Tuesday? 
All you need to do is create a quick golf tip video between 30 seconds to 2 minutes and use the specific hash tag #pgaofabprotiptuesday and handle @pgaofalberta and the PGA of Alberta will re-post your video on their Instagram account every Tuesday. One video will be posted per week. We ask you to submit your video using the Dropbox link below in case you do not post on your own account.

Video Tips

1. Be Professional. You are representing the Association so ensure you look and act the part.
2. Intro. State your name, club, and position as the intro to your video.
3. Length. Ensure your video is between 30 seconds to 2 minutes.
4. Rehearse. Practise your video tip a few times before the final "shoot".
5. Setting. Make sure there’s no noise/visual distractions around you so viewers can focus on you. Your video can be shot indoors or outdoors (weather permitting).

Look at past examples of Pro Tip Tuesday videos below for inspiration:

• Example #1 - Click Here
• Example #2 - Click Here
• Example #3 - Click Here

Top 100 Points
Everyone who participates in Pro Tip Tuesday will earn 3 Top 100 points for the new program year. You can only receive 3 points per year. We recommend doing more than one video but a max of 3 points will be rewarded for the Top 100 program.

Deadline
Deadline has been EXTENDED to Friday, December 10^th for submission.

Dropbox Link > CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT VIDEO WHEN COMPLETE

Association News

The PGA of Alberta is pleased to present four bursaries annually of $750 each to deserving Class "A" Assistant and Apprentice Professionals that meet or exceed the Bursary criteria. Congratulations to this year’s recipients:

• Keenan Vanderkooi (Silvertip GR)
• Nic Longley (Lakeside GC)
• Nicola Jeffries (Willow Park G&CC)
• Stephen Yanitski (Valley Ridge GC)

Thank you to everyone who applied for a bursary this year. 

Read More

Association News

The PGA of Alberta is proud to present a total of four (4) cash bursaries of $750 each to deserving Apprentice and Class A Assistant/Teaching Professionals who meet or exceed the bursary criteria as outlined on the website.

All Apprentice and Class A Professionals (who are not employed as Head/Executive Professionals) in good standing are eligible and encouraged to apply. Two of the bursaries will be reserved for seasonal Apprentice Professionals (working 9-months or less for their employer). 

Bursary Criteria

1. Participation in Association & Industry Events
2. Volunteer Experience
3. Education
4. Work Experience & Responsibilities
5. Reference Letter from employer
6. Declaration

Deadline
Bursary application and accompanying information must be submitted online no later than September 29^th, 2021 by 4pm.

If you have any questions, please contact Marlene Sanderson at the PGA office 403-256-8894 or by email marlene.sanderson@pgaofalberta.com.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Association News

The 2021 edition of the PGA of Alberta Junior Masters presented by Sundog Eyewear & TourTee is now officially in the books. Round 2 today saw plenty of fantastic golf being played by the talented field of juniors showing why they are the top players in the province.

Winning her first Junior Masters title in the Girls’ Division was Jayla Kucy of Camrose GC. Jayla played fantastic golf over the two-days shooting 74-79 to win by just a single stroke over Sydney Bisgrove of Canyon Meadows G&CC. Sydney started the day six strokes back of the lead and did everything she could to force a playoff but fell just short after shooting 80-74. Rounding out the top 3 was Georgia Barr of Glencoe G&CC after firing 76-80 for the tournament to finish three back of the lead. Congratulations to the following winners of their respective Flight:

• 16 & Under - Sydney Bisgrove of Canyon Meadows G&CC
• 14 & Under - Gabrielle Roznicki of Pinebrook G&CC

In the Boys’ Division, shooting an even par 71-70 to win the Junior Masters for the first time was Zachary Haydamack of Mickelson National GC. Zachary cruised his way to victory by six strokes over his nearest competitor and was only one of two players in the field to shoot even par for either round. Finishing in second was the likes of Cole Bergheim of Red Deer G&CC after carding 74-73 for the two rounds. Rounding out the top 3 was Brett Jones of Glencoe G&CC with 76-72 for the tournament. Congratulations to the following winners of their respective Flight:

• 18 & Under - Cole Bergheim (Red Deer G&CC)
• 16 & Under - Brett Jones (Glencoe G&CC)
• 14 & Under - Charlie Gillespie (Canyon Meadows G&CC)

Thank you to all our players, sponsors, and of course Wolf Creek GR for hosting another Junior Masters event.

Click here for full results

Association News

After a windy and cool day at the Wolf Creek Golf Resort in Ponoka for the PGA of Alberta Junior Masters presented by Sundog Eyewear & TourTee, Zachary Haydamack of Mickelson National GC in the Boys’ Division and Jayla Kucy of Camrose GC in the Girls’ Division stood above the rest to hold the lead heading into Round 2 tomorrow.

Haydamack played bogey-free on the front nine and was sitting at 3-under after the 11 holes until making a few bogeys down the final stretch to finish at even par 71. Sitting right behind Haydamack is the 2020 Junior Masters Champion Carter Code (Glencoe G&CC) at 1-over 72. Code will be looking to repeat after winning by 3-strokes last year to win his first Junior Masters title. Five other players sit within 3 strokes of the lead heading into tomorrow at the Old Course.

In the 14 & Under Boys’ Division, Peter Hlushak (Stony Plain GC) had a stellar performance today to sit atop the leaderboard in his respective division. Hlushak fired a 3-over 74 today on the Links Course to give himself a healthy 3-stroke lead heading into tomorrow.

In the Girls’ Division, Kucy stayed calm under tough conditions today to finish at 3-over 74, giving herself a 2-stroke lead heading into round two. She started the round at 3-over after nine holes but dialed it in on the back nine and played even par golf to put herself in the lead. Right behind Kucy is Georgia Barr (Glencoe G&CC) at 5-over 76 and Aastha Savadatti (Canyon Meadows G&CC) at 6-over 77. Both players will try to put the pressure on the leader tomorrow as they tee off in the final group of the tournament at 10:20am.

In the 14 & Under Girls’ Division, Kali Yeske (Valley Ridge GC) took sole possession of first in her division after shooting an 83. Gabrielle Roznicki (Pinebrook G&CC) sits only one back of Yeske with at 84 setting up for an exciting battle tomorrow for the 14 & Under Division.

Players will take their talents over to the Old Course tomorrow (Sept. 3rd) at Wolf Creek GR for the final round and do everything they can to take home the 2021 Junior Masters title as well as their respective division.

Click here for Round 1 results & Round 2 draw.

Association News

The PGA of Alberta Junior Masters sponsored by Sundog Eyewear & TourTee is a 36-Hole invitational Junior Golf event organized each year by the Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta. Celebrating its 31^st year in 2021, this event was initiated to provide elite level competition to a limited field of Alberta’s top junior golfers.

This year we have 55 Junior Boys and Girls with a highly competitive golf background competing at Wolf Creek GR in Ponoka this week on September 2^nd & 3^rd. The Boys Division Champion from 2020, Carter Code (Glencoe G&CC), will be back to defend his title while the Girls Division will crown a new Champion this year!

Click here to view draw


           

Association News

Each year the PGA of Alberta is proud to award four Junior Scholarships of $1,000 each to deserving candidates. Two of the Scholarships are awarded to children of PGA of Alberta Members and the other two are awarded to competitive junior golfers in Alberta who meet specific criteria. We are pleased to award the following individuals the 2021 scholarships:


Thank you to everyone that applied this year. We wish everyone the best of luck in their post-secondary education.

Click here for more information on our Scholarship Program

Association News

The Compensation Survey is a very important tool for our Association as it allows us to give our membership the most current earning potential in each area of the province based on their position.  The more surveys that are filled out, the more accurate both the averages and high/low points will be.

Please take 5-10 minutes to fill out the survey. Once completed, you will be sent a copy of the results.

Important Aspects to the Compensation Survey

• Each member will only be able to submit one survey for approval between Oct 1 - Sept 30 each year.
• Top 100 Points - Every Member will receive 5 Top 100 points for completing the survey!
• Your information will be kept confidential and will be used only for statistical purposes.
  
  

Association News

We are saddened to announce the recent passing of PGA of Alberta Life Member Alan Roy Killian. Alan passed away on August 8^th at the age of 60.

Alan was born on February 8^th, 1961, in Edmonton, Alberta to Roy and Georgina Killian. After graduating from NAIT with a Civil Engineering degree, Alan was drawn to his love of sports and in 1984 became a Golf Professional with the PGA of Canada. His golf career began at the Kananaskis GC and he would go on to have a 20-year career as a Head Professional in Calgary, culminating with many wonderful years at the Inglewood G&CC.

Beyond his love for playing, Al’s passion was teaching golfers the skills to improve their golf game and thereby their enjoyment of the game. Once his golf career ended, he would go on to reinvent himself and became a Certified Financial Planner with Investors Group where he could continue to teach and support others, but this time in the realm of finance.

There will be a celebration of Alan’s life, to be held on Thursday, August 19^th, 2021, at the Deerfoot Meadows location of the Shark Club Sports Bar & Grill, the address being: 7995 11 Street S.E., Calgary. The event will run from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm and all friends and family are invited to come at their leisure. The Killian family asks that if you have a memory or story to share involving Alan, to please bring a written copy to drop off in a collection box, as in the months and years to come they will treasure the chance to read them again and again.

Our thoughts are with Alan’s family and friends during this difficult time. Click the link below for Alan’s obituary.

Click Here for Obituary

Association News

Do you have any upcoming tournaments or events at your club? Create some excitement by purchasing Hole in One Insurance through the PGA of Alberta HIO program! In partnership with Foster Park Brokers Inc., the HIO program provides members and non-members the opportunity to purchase affordable HIO insurance for your club, corporate and charity events!

Click Here for Member Testimonials

What Denominations Can I Purchase?
Any denomination from $1,000 to $50,000 per hole can be purchased online. Should you wish to purchase more than $50,000 per hole, please contact marlene.sanderson@pgaofalberta.com for a custom quote. On coverage up to $100,000, PGA of Alberta members will always receive the best possible premium from Foster Park Brokers.

How Do I Purchase?
Coverage can be easily purchased on the PGA of Alberta website with the following steps:

1. Login to the website and select ‘My Hole In One’ under ’Manage Account’ or ’My Account’
2. Select the ’Create New Event’ button
3. Follow the step-by-step instructions that will guide you through the easy purchasing process. It’s as simple as that!

*If you are a non-PGA of Alberta member and interested in purchasing, please contact Marlene Sanderson at the PGA of Alberta office (see contact info below).

What are the Benefits of PGA of Alberta HIO Program?

• Competitive industry rates
• Easy to purchase online
• Purchase for one event OR for an entire season worth of events at once
• Modify your events by contacting the office based on any changes that occur throughout the season
• Fees/Premium waived if tournament is cancelled due to inclement weather
• No dealing with the insurance company directly
• Supporting the Association

Important Items to Note
Electronic scorecards are acceptable as long as they can still be signed by the winner (digital signature acceptable).

Elevated flag/holes will NOT be permitted for HIO Insurance. However, clubs are still able to purchase insurance as long as the ball drops and stays in the hole after coming to a rest. There are NO requirements for a specific depth of the hole.

Questions?
If have any questions on how this program can work for you, please contact Marlene Sanderson at the PGA of Alberta office (E: marlene.sanderson@pgaofalberta.com OR P: 403-256-8894 / TF: 1-888-866-6140).

Association News

One of the main focuses of the PGA of Alberta has been supporting Junior Golf. Alberta Golf Professionals use their expertise to create, organize and facilitate junior-oriented events including the PGA of Alberta Junior Masters. The Scholarship Program is another important step in the overall development of our current programming.

The mission of the PGA of Alberta is to provide junior golfers from around the province the opportunity to be recognized for their outstanding achievements, while promoting and providing access to continued education. This program has presented over 50 scholarships since 1998.

Scholarships

There are four (4) Junior Scholarships available of $1,000 each awarded to deserving candidates. Two of these scholarships will be awarded to children of PGA of Alberta Members (no golf experience needed) and the other two will be awarded to Alberta Junior boys or girls, who meet the criteria.

Deadline

Scholarship deadline is this Friday, July 30^th, 2021 by 4pm. Application forms and accompanying information must be sent to the PGA of Alberta office no later than this date.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Association News

The PGA of Alberta is pleased to introduce Brendan Ethier as the newest member to the Zone staff in the position of Tournament & Education Coordinator. Brendan’s role will consist of coordinating the Education portfolio from the Spring Seminar to the Podcast Series as well as being present at PGA of Alberta tournaments this season. Many Assistant Professionals already had the chance to meet Brendan earlier this week at the Assistants’ Championship at Sirocco GC.

Brendan graduated from the University of Jamestown in North Dakota with a degree in Exercise Science. He has a strong passion for sports and is looking forward to meeting more of the membership at upcoming events. Brendan can now be reached by email at brendan.ethier@pgaofalberta.com.

Click here to view entire staff listing

Association News

Please be advised of the recent staff changes at the PGA of Alberta office. Ashley Van Kroonenburg is no longer working for the PGA of Alberta. She is still however working in the golf industry at Canmore G&CC. We wish Ashley the best of luck in her new role at the club and look forward to seeing her at future Association events.

Trevor Rioux will be shifting over to our Events role (Buying Show, Awards, Golf Shows, etc.) as well as remaining the point of contact for several other Association programs. Please send any questions to him pertaining to the events above moving forward (trevor.rioux@pgaofalberta.com).

Aaron McKay is now the main point of contact for the tournament program this season. Please send any questions to him pertaining to tournaments moving forward (aaron.mckay@pgaofalberta.com).

Lastly, the Association is currently in the process of hiring a new person for the role of Education & Tournament Coordinator. The office has already interviewed several candidates and should have a new person in place in the coming weeks.

Association News

With last week’s various announcements regarding the new restrictions brought into effect by the province of Alberta, Chief Medical Officer and Alberta Health Services, we decided to consolidate the various COVID-19 related pages on our website to provide ease of access for all our Members.

We hope the updated Resource Centre Page (found under the "My Account" tab) will help with any questions you may have during these trying times and all information on these pages has come directly from Alberta Health Services or government of Alberta or Canada pages to ensure accuracy, consistent messaging and clarity. 

With all the hard-work being done on our Industry’s behalf by the tireless NAGA Alberta & all advocates, we have thankfully managed to remain open whereas so many others have not. While not easy to yet again be forced to endure making changes to operations and all the challenging facets that entails; we implore everyone to hang on and follow the new restrictions and guidelines that have been imposed. A recent article in the Calgary Herald by Wes Gilbertson helps shed some light on the current direction of lobbying and ongoing discussions with governmental persons.

Please click here to see the most recent update from NAGA Alberta and their most recent communication with the Chief Medical Officer - Dr. Hinshaw.

for the Covid-19 Resource Centre Page

Association News

The 2021 PGA of Alberta Junior Masters sponsored by Sundog Eyewear & Tour Tee has been rescheduled to September 2 & 3 after review of the recent government restrictions effecting the golf industry. The event will still be hosted at Wolf Creek GR in Ponoka. We are pleased to keep this event on the schedule to provide the top juniors in the province with a highly competitive golf experience through our partnership with Wolf Creek GR.

For more information on the event, please click here.

 

Association News

We are saddened to announce the recent passing of PGA of Alberta member Corey Beaver. Corey joined the PGA of Canada in 2015 and received his Class A status at the beginning of 2020. He was most recently the Assistant Golf Professional at Sundre GC and previously worked at Jasper Park Lodge GC and Station Creek GC in Ontario. Corey passed away at the age of 27.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a time of celebration to honour Corey’s life will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Colchester Community Funeral Home, 512 Willow St, Truro, N.S.

Our deepest condolences goes out to his family and friends during this difficult time. Click the link below for Corey’s obituary.
  

Click Here for Obituary

Association News

Registration for the 2021 Play Ability Tests (PAT) is now open! Take note of the PAT schedule by clicking the button below. There will be five PAT’s in total this season. Please pass this information on to anyone interested in becoming a member of the PGA of Alberta at your facility! For more information on the steps to become a member, please refer to the PGA of Canada Membership Roadmap.

About the PAT…
The PAT is standardized testing all Applicants must pass in order to be eligible to apply for membership. All prospective Applicants are required to register with the PGA of Canada prior to registering for a PAT in 2021. Once an application has been accepted, the PGA of Canada will notify the PGA of Alberta office that there is a new Applicant who will be attempting a PAT. The PAT’s are conducted by the Zones.

Prospective members must meet the following entrance requirements:

• Be 18 years of age
• Have a high school diploma or higher
• Currently working in the golf industry to be verified by your employer, and work a minimum of 400 hours per year
• Two reference letters, one from your employer and one from a PGA of Canada Class "A" Member
• Pass a sanctioned Play Ability Test
• Complete a police check with Sterling BackCheck Online

PAT Target Score...

• 1 round PAT (18 holes)
• No maximum number of attempts per year
• All PAT’s are open to all Applicants
• For Men, 49 years of age & under - the course rating plus 9 
• For Men, 50 years of age & older - the course rating plus 11 
• For Women, 49 years of age & under- the course rating plus 13 
• For Women, 50 years of age & older - the course rating plus 15

PAT Process...
Step 1 - Register online at pgaofcanada.com - The cost is $325 plus tax, which includes your 1st PAT attempt and is valid for one year from the date of the registration. After a year, you must re-register as an Applicant to register for and attempt a PAT.

Step 2 - Register online at pgaofcanada.com for all PAT’s - ($150 plus tax per each additional attempt)

If an Applicant is unsuccessful in each of their PAT attempts over the course of a season, those Applicants may try again the following season. Successful Applicants will pay membership dues for the upcoming season at that time. 

Click Read More below for more information on the application process and the steps that need to be taken after becoming a member.

Association News

At the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting, Greg McGarry of the Glendale G&CC officially passed the torch to the new PGA of Alberta President Dale Tomlinson from The Winston GC. Dale has been a Board Member since 2011 and brings with him a wealth of knowledge of the Association as he moves into his new role as the 29^th President of the PGA of Alberta. At the AGM, Dale officially announced Matt Johnson from the Royal Mayfair GC as the new Vice President.

We would like to give a special thank you to Greg McGarry for all of his efforts over the last two years as President of the Association. See the picture below of Greg McGarry receiving a recognition plaque for his years of service as President. 

Click Here to view past Presidents.

Association News

The PGA of Alberta prides itself on being different, along with bringing new ideas to life.

The PGA of Alberta Marketplace is a hub for all Golf courses in Alberta that employ a PGA of Canada Professional. This hub will allow you to search individual courses quickly and easily with all the information you’ll need to get on the links. 

The Marketplace is divided up into sectors; Teaching Facilities, Private, Semi-Private, Public and Resort courses. PLUS don’t forget to check out the Caddy Shack to search for all the NEW 2021 clubs. 

Are you looking for a deal? Well we have those too. Search under the Show Specials to find spectacular golf deals. Be sure to check in weekly as the deals have just begun. 

This Marketplace will be online until the end of the season.  Be sure to use this hub for all your PGA of Alberta Golf Course needs.

Association News

Add some excitement to your tournaments and club leagues this season by purchasing Hole in One Insurance through the PGA of Alberta HIO program! In partnership with Foster Park Brokers Inc., the HIO program provides members and non-members the opportunity to purchase affordable HIO insurance for your club, corporate and charity events!

Click Here for Member Testimonials

What Denominations Can I Purchase?
Any denomination from $1,000 to $50,000 per hole can be purchased online. Should you wish to purchase more than $50,000 per hole, please contact marlene.sanderson@pgaofalberta.com for a custom quote. On coverage up to $100,000, PGA of Alberta members will always receive the best possible premium from Foster Park Brokers.

How Do I Purchase?
Coverage can be easily purchased on the PGA of Alberta website with the following steps:

1. Login to the website and select ‘My Hole In One’ under ’Manage Account’ or ’My Account’
2. Select the ’Create New Event’ button
3. Follow the step-by-step instructions that will guide you through the easy purchasing process. It’s as simple as that!

*If you are a non-PGA of Alberta member and interested in purchasing, please contact Marlene Sanderson at the PGA of Alberta office (see contact info below).

What are the Benefits of PGA of Alberta HIO Program?

• Competitive industry rates
• Easy to purchase online
• Purchase for one event OR for an entire season worth of events at once
• Modify your events by contacting the office based on any changes that occur throughout the season
• Fees/Premium waived if tournament is cancelled due to inclement weather
• No dealing with the insurance company directly
• Supporting the Association

Important Items to Note
Electronic scorecards are acceptable as long as they can still be signed by the winner (digital signature acceptable).

Elevated flag/holes will NOT be permitted for HIO Insurance. However, clubs are still able to purchase insurance as long as the ball drops and stays in the hole after coming to a rest. There are NO requirements for a specific depth of the hole.

Questions?
If have any questions on how this program can work for you, please contact Marlene Sanderson at the PGA of Alberta office (E: marlene.sanderson@pgaofalberta.com OR P: 403-256-8894 / TF: 1-888-866-6140).

Association News

Congratulations to the following 14 members for reaching their 25 & 50 Year milestone in 2021 as a Class A Member of the PGA of Canada! All members were recognized at our Annual General Meeting on March 9^th for their outstanding dedication to the Association and golf industry. With such an accomplishment, the National office will recognize each members milestone with a special gift!

50 Years

• Wayne Stark (Life Member)

25 Years

• Andrew Penner (McKenzie Meadows GC)
• Art New (Canada Golf Card Driving Range)
• Cathy Burton (Class A Professional)
• Cliff Kryway (Class A Professional)
• David Nikirk (Mickelson National GC)
• Gary Lecuyer (Class A Professional)
• Gerry Collett (Links at Spruce Grove)
• Greg Griffith (Fox Hollow GC)
• Jamie Driscoll (Trestle Creek GR)
• Scott Bergdahl (Lakewood GR)
• Scott Holland (Silvertip GR)
• Tiffany Gordon (Carnmoney GC)
• Todd Fiske (Class A Professional)

Association News

Congratulations to the following Members on being elected to the Board of Directors today (March 9^th) at the PGA of Alberta Annual General Meeting:

• Jeff MacGregor (The Glendale G&CC, newly elected)
• Josh Fleming (GOLFTEC Calgary Beacon Heights, newly elected)
• Scott Anderson (The Winston GC, newly elected)
• Shawn Lavoie (Canyon Meadows G&CC, re-elected)

Congratulations to the following Members on being elected to the Assistants’ Board of Directors:

• Brady Karlson (Canyon Meadows G&CC, newly elected)
• Chris Ward (Edmonton Petroleum G&CC, newly elected)
• Riley Fleming (Lynx Ridge GC, newly elected)
• Shannon Raina (Glencoe G&CC, newly elected)
• Bryce Halverson (Valley Ridge GC, re-elected)
• Eric Locke (Priddis Greens G&CC, re-elected)

Click the following links to view the current Board of Directors or Assistants’ Board.

Association News

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Members of the Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta will be held tomorrow on Tuesday, March 9^th, 2021 starting at 10:00am. The AGM will be held virtually this year through Zoom.

Voting for the Board & Assistants’ Board is being executed online through a secure voting platform. If you did not receive an email communication on Feb. 16^th, please contact trevor.rioux@pgaofalberta.com. Please note there will be no floor nominations this year. 

Please click Read More below to be directed to the AGM information and Zoom Link if you did not previously receive (login required). All attendees of the AGM will receive 3 Top 100 points.

Association News

The PGA of Alberta Mentorship Program provides guidance and direction to first year Members of the Association (Apprentice Professionals). Developed in conjunction with the Assistants’ Board of Directors, the objective of the Mentorship Program is to create a group of Members who are passionate about their careers, the industry and Association, leading to long-term commitment to the golf industry.

CLICK HERE to see last year’s Program Feedback from Mentors/Mentees

IMPORTANT: Members must have their Class ’A’ status within the Association in order to be a Mentor. We are in need of Mentors in all geographical locations of the province. We want to ensure the best support possible for our new Apprentice Professionals and this will be accomplished by pairing a Mentor with a Mentee that lives in a close proximity.

Expectations of Mentors…

• Commit to your Mentor/Mentee relationship(s) for a minimum of 2-years
• Be accountable for your Mentee and provide continuous support on an ongoing basis as needed
• Set parameters of the relationship with the Mentee and create a plan for goals/objectives on what both parties want achieve
• Attempt to meet in person with your Mentee twice (Spring & Fall). Example: This can be accomplished over a round of golf
• Provide feedback to the office by completing the Mentor Evaluation Form when required

Top 100 Points…
All Mentors will receive 5 Top 100 Points max. for their involvement in the Mentorship Program. These points are awarded annually in September. All Mentors must execute the action items as indicated and submit the Evaluation Form before being eligible to receive the points.

Form…
If interested in being involved, please the button below to submit the "Become a Mentor" form by March 5^th, 2021. After the form has been submitted, you will be added to the Mentor list (if eligible) and MAY be assigned a Mentee in March of this year (depending on total number of Mentors/Mentees, and geographical location). Please ignore this form if you have already expressed interest in being a Mentor.

Association News

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Members of the Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta will be held on Tuesday, March 9^th, 2021 starting at 10:00am. The AGM will be held virtually this year through Zoom due to COVID-19.

Board of Directors Election (9 Nominees)

There will be four (4) spots open for election in 2021 for the Board of Directors. Voting will officially open on Tuesday, February 16^th and will close just after the start of the AGM on March 9^th.

Assistants’ Board of Directors Election (20 Nominees)

There will be six (6) spots open for election in 2021 for the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Voting will officially open on Tuesday, February 16^th and will close just after the start of the AGM on March 9^th.

Click Read More below to view this year’s Nominees (login required).

Association News

Learn more about the history of the Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta by taking a look at our past Presidents. Look back in time to our very first President, Sandy Robertson in 1964, all the way to our current President Greg McGarry of Glendale G&CC. In total, there has been 28 Presidents for the PGA of Alberta, all setting the course of action and representing the Association during their Presidency.

Click Here to view the past Presidents

Association News

Congratulations to Bryce Halverson of Valley Ridge GC on being elected as the new President of the PGA of Alberta Assistants’ Board of Directors.

Bryce has been a member of the Assistants’ Board since the beginning of 2019 and has been actively involved in the Association through all facets including committees, tournaments and education. He is the recent recipient of the PGA of Alberta Apprentice Professional of the Year Award in 2020 and a finalist for the National Award being announced on January 28^th. Click here for more details.

The Assistants’ Board is in great hands moving forward with Bryce and the other Board members all striving towards making a positive impact for the Association and Assistant Professionals. Thank you to former Assistants’ Board President Sam Kirkness (Inglewood G&CC) for all of your hard work over the past year.

About the Assistants’ Board of Directors...
Class A Professionals and Apprentice Professionals also have a voice in the Association, through the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Up to nine Class A Members or Apprentice Professionals are invited to run annually for two-year terms on the Assistants’ Board of Directors, and upon election assume a portfolio, and attend Committee meetings consistent with those on the Board of Directors.

If you are interested in running for a position on the Assistants’ Board of Directors in 2021, please click the link below (login required) for more information and to be directed to the Nomination form which can be submitted online. Deadline to submit your interest is Friday, January 22^nd, 2021 (end of day).

Association News

Nomination Form

If you are interested in running for a position on either the Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta Board of Directors or Assistants’ Board of Directors in 2021, please click the link below (login required) for more information and to be directed to the Nomination form which can be submitted online. Deadline to submit your interest is Friday, January 22^nd, 2021 (end of day).

REMINDER - SAVE DRAFT FEATURE
You can now save your forms online before submitting. Please follow the steps below:

1. You must be logged into your account to be able to save your draft. 
2. Save Draft button is located at the bottom of every form on the website.
3. To find Saved Drafts, please go to "My Account" or "Manage Account" > My Saved Drafts.
4. Click "Edit" beside the form you want to update.
5. Submit when finished!

Board of Directors

Sets all policies, rules and regulations for the PGA of Alberta, meeting on a quarterly basis to conduct the business affairs on behalf of the Members.  There are between nine and twelve Members elected to the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors, all are Class A Members of the PGA of Canada. Elections to the Board are held every year at the Annual General Meeting in March and election terms are set at three years. There will be four (4) spots open for election in 2021 for the Board of Directors. CLICK HERE to see the current Board.

Assistants’ Board of Directors

Assistant Professionals (Class A) and Apprentice Professionals also have a voice in the Association, through the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Up to nine Class A Members or Apprentice Professionals are invited to run annually for two-year Committee terms on the Assistants’ Board of Directors, and upon election assume a portfolio, and attend Committee meetings consistent with those on the Board of Directors. There will be five (5) spots open for election in 2021 for the Assistants’ Board of Directors. CLICK HERE to see the current Assistants’ Board.

Click Here for Nomination Form

Association News

The Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta would like to wish everyone and their families a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Our office will be closed starting December 21^st and will be open again on January 4^th.

Read More

Association News

The Canadian golf industry generated $18.2B in economic benefits across our nation in 2019, according to a recent economic analysis conducted by Group ATN Consulting Inc. on behalf of the National Allied Golf Associations (We Are Golf).

According to The Economic Impact of Golf in Canada (2019), the Canadian golf industry employs the equivalent of nearly 249,000 people through direct and spin-off effects and contributed to $10.6B in household income. The industry also contributed $4.5B in government tax revenue ($1.8B federal and $2.1B provincial) used to support a variety of programs for all Canadians.

Based on nationwide surveys completed by golfers and golf course operators in 10 provinces and three territories along with multiple industry data sources, The Economic Impact of Golf in Canada (2019) is a follow up to previous comprehensive and independent assessment studies (2014, 2009) of the economic impact of the golf industry in Canada. The $18.2B economic impact of golf represents a 14% increase in contribution to Canada’s GDP between 2013 and 2019.

“The Economic Impact of Golf in Canada (2019) further reinforces the enormous financial, employment, charitable, tourism and positive environmental impact that the sport and the business of golf are affecting across Canada,” said Laurence Applebaum, Chair of We Are Golf and CEO of Golf Canada. “This third iteration of the study provides the golf industry with a powerful snapshot of the scale and magnitude that our sport has on the Canadian economy and within the communities where we live, work and play.”

The study presents economic insights for each of the 10 provinces and three territories from coast to coast. Also captured in the report are comparisons to international economic insights from select countries and regions including the United States, European Union, and Australia.

The Economic Impact of Golf in Canada (2019) was conducted on behalf of We Are Golf by Group ATN Consulting Inc., a world leader in economic development and analysis for communities, regions, and industries. Group ATN previously conducted the 2014 and 2009 Canadian Golf Economic Impact Studies (based on 2013 and 2008 data respectively) which have allowed the Canadian golf industry to benchmark the game’s economic impact over five-year periods.

“Every industry has its own unique circumstances to allow for, and the ability to repeat the same application of our model for Canadian golf is a significant advantage,” said Tom McGuire, Principal with Group ATN Consulting. “Beyond consistency, we have also been able to further improve certain aspects based upon learnings from the prior studies we did for the National Allied Golf Associations (We Are Golf).”

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF GOLF IN CANADA (2019):

The game of golf accounts for an estimated $18.2B of Canada’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which is up 14% from the $15.9B reported in 2014*. Included within the 2019 economic impact:

• The golf industry directly employed nearly 150,000 full-time, full-year equivalent positions, representing many more individuals who are employed in the sector. This number grows to approximately 249,000 when accounting for direct, indirect, and induced employment.
• The golf industry directly contributed $4.8B in household income, rising to $10.6B when considering the combined direct, indirect, and induced impacts.
• The golf industry generated $4.5B in government tax revenue; including $1.8B in federal tax revenue and $2.1B in provincial tax revenue.
• Conservatively, course operators invested $727M industry-wide on capital expenditures.

*Note that 2014 figures are adjusted by the consumer price index and reported as current dollars.

Additional Insights from The Economic Impact of Golf in Canada (2019):

• Employment – The golf industry is a significant job provider for youth with 48% of its workforce identified as students.
• Travel – Canadians along with international visitors contributed to $8.6B in golf-related travel nationwide. Canadians made approximately 8M trips involving golf, including 3.0M in their home province and 1.8M outside their home province and abroad.
• Golfer Spending – Golfers in Canada spent approximately $19.3B on items such as green fees, memberships, lessons, equipment, travel, hospitality, events, and other golf-related expenditures.
• Canadian Course Operators – A total of 2,283 facilities were estimated to be operating in 2019, accounting for 2,043 courses (18-hole equivalent); course operators collectively spent approximately $3.8B in course expenditures.
• Land management – Golf course operations manage between 155,000 and 175,000 hectares, including 30,000 to 35,000 hectares of wildlife and wetland area.
• Charitable Impact – The golf industry generated an estimated $330M in charitable impact through more than 51,000 tournaments and events.
• Golf Participation – Canadian golfers played an estimated 57.0M rounds in 2019.

Although released in 2020, The Economic Impact of Golf in Canada (2019) does not factor in the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Canadian golf industry.

“Establishing a baseline for the economic impact of our sport measured against pre-2020 Covid-19 spending is an important benchmark consideration for the integrity and continuity of the study,” added Applebaum. “Based on what we learned through the 2020 season, the safety of golf through this pandemic and the potential for a lift in participation and spending on the game, we are optimistic in looking ahead.”

Click here for additional information on the We Are Golf website.

Association News

We are excited to release the latest issue of our Digital Magazine... the "Golf Report" featuring the PGA of Alberta Awards Program! In this special edition of the magazine, you can view the Finalists for every Award this year which will be announced in the coming weeks. More information on the Awards Program will be released shortly. Other stories inside the magazine include:

• Past event winners from this season
• 2020 Junior Masters champions
• Latest partnership with Schooley Mitchell
  
• and more!

Click here to view Magazine

Association News

The time has finally arrived! The PGA of Alberta is excited to announce this year’s Awards Finalists! Winners will be announced during the final week of October. Stayed tuned on social media and the website for this year’s exciting new awards process! Congratulations and good luck to everyone for the following awards:

• Club Professional of the Year
• Executive Professional of the Year
• Assistant Professional of the Year – Class A & Apprentice Professional
• Teacher of the Year
• Junior of the Year
• Coach of the Year
• Sales Rep of the Year
• Retailer of the Year

Please remember that we will also announce the Player of the Year and Patron of the Year Awards during the final week of October as well.

VIEW FINALISTS HERE

Association News

Each year the PGA of Alberta is proud to award four Junior Scholarships of $1,000 each to deserving candidates. Two of the Scholarships are awarded to children of PGA of Alberta Members and the other two are awarded to competitive junior golfers in Alberta who meet specific criteria. Congratulations to the following:

PGA of Alberta Family Scholarship

• Max Murchison (Bill Murchison - Golfuture)
• Zachary Jurak (Todd Jurak - Sylvan Lake G&CC)

Golf Specific Scholarship

• Kate Martens (Windermere G&CC)
• Ethan Choi (Pincher Creek GC)

Thank you to everyone that applied for a Scholarship this year. We wish everyone the best of luck in their post-secondary education.

Click here to view recipients

Association News

The PGA of Alberta is pleased to present four Bursaries of $750 each to deserving PGA of Alberta members who are either Apprentice Professionals or Class A Professionals and meet or exceed the bursary criteria as outlined.

All Apprentice Professionals and Class A Professionals (who are not employed as Head/Executive Professionals) are eligible and encouraged to apply. A minimum of two of the bursaries will be reserved for seasonal AP’s (working 9 months or less for their employer). Please click the below link to be directed to the application form.

Deadline to Submit - September 30th @ 4pm

*New Feature - Saved Drafts*
You can now save your applications online before submitting! Please follow the steps below.

1. You must be logged into your account to be able to save your draft. 
2. Save Draft button is located at the bottom of every application on the website.
3. To find Saved Drafts please go to "My Account" or "Manage Account" > My Saved Drafts.
4. Submit when finished!

Association News

After a competitive battle today during Round 2 of the PGA of Alberta Ladies’ Championship at Valley Ridge GC, Gina Nelson of Magrath GC stood above the rest after firing a 1-over 73 to claim the Championship! Playing in her first PGA of Alberta event, Gina showed no fear on the course today scoring four timely birdies to help her cruise to a 5 stroke victory and her first Ladies’ Championship title!

Finishing in second place was Shaye Leidenius (Wolf Creek GR) after improving her second round score by 9 strokes to finish at 3-over 75 today. Rounding out our Top 3 was Rhonda Carter (Blue Devil GC) after carding a solid 7-over 79 today.

Thank you to our presenting sponsors MKRAK and Sundog Eyewear / Tour Tee and host venue Valley Ridge GC for a great two days. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year!

Click here for Final Results

Association News

The draw is now available for Round 1 of the PGA of Alberta Seniors’ Championship presented by MKRAK and Sundog Eyewear / Tour Tee. This year will see 30 of Alberta’s top Professionals aged 50 & over head to the beautiful Valley Ridge GC next week on September 14^th & 15^th to compete in the final championship of the season alongside the Ladies’ Championship.

Last year’s Champion Darryl James of National Golf Academy at Shaganappi is back to defend his title after dethroning Scott Allred of Elbow Springs GC who won the previous four championships. Between the two excellent players, they have won eight of the last nine championships (six for Allred and two for James). Click here to see past winners.

Valley Ridge GC will offer a great day of golf for all competitors in the event. The front nine along the Bow River is where players will find the vivid sights and sounds of nature down in the valley.  The back nine will present new challenges around every fairway corner which will make for an exciting championship!

Click here to view the draw.
     

Association News

The draw is now posted for the annual PGA of Alberta Ladies’ Championship presented by MKRAK and Sundog Eyewear / Tour Tee. Alberta’s top female Professionals will head to Valley Ridge GC on September 14^th & 15^th to compete against one another for their shot at the title.

All players will be looking to dethrone back-to-back defending champion Marsha Rogers of The Derrick G&WC after winning the Championship last year at Sturgeon Valley G&CC with scores of 74-77 to win by 7 strokes! Marsha will be looking for her second victory this season after winning the Ladies’ Division at the Pro-Pro Best Ball at the end of August. Click here to see past winners of the Championship.

Tee times will begin at 2:40pm for Round 1 of the Championship on September 14^th. 

Click here to view the draw.
   

Association News

Jasper Park Lodge GC is ready to host this year’s Callaway Golf Pro-Assistant Championship next week! Fifty teams of Head/Executive Professionals and their Assistants’ will head to Jasper on September 8^th & 9^th for a great two days of golf in the mountains and the chance to be crowned this years champions!

Format for the event will be a six-hole rotation of Scramble, Scotch Ball and Best Ball each day. Tee times begin at 10:45am for Round 1.

Click Here to View Draw

About Callaway Golf...



Callaway Golf was founded in 1982 by the late Ely Callaway, a visionary entrepreneur who operated under a simple but profound business promise: Deliver Demonstrably Superior, Pleasingly Different products and services. That philosophy turned what was originally a boutique manufacturer of high-quality wedges and putters into the world’s largest maker of premium, performance golf products. The Callaway mission and vision has remained the same; to passionately pursue advanced, innovative technologies that help golfers of all abilities find more enjoyment from the game.

Callaway Golf has been a Champion Partner of the PGA of Alberta for over 20-years! They have been long-time supporters of the annual Buying Show as well as our Consumer Golf Shows every year. Please visit their website for more information on their products or contact: Jim McCulley - Northern Alberta (Jim.McCulley@callawaygolf.com) or Tory Nilson - Southern Alberta (Tory.Nilson@callawaygolf.com).

About Jasper Park Lodge GC...
Stanley Thompson, Canada’s master golf course architect, displayed some of the finest work of his career with this design. The 18-hole layout offers elevated tee boxes, dramatic bunkering and holes aligned with distant mountain vistas.  Few golf courses in the world can match the rugged majesty of this national treasure, nestled between sparkling lakes, pristine forest and rocky peaks.

Highly acclaimed for its challenging layout and spectacular beauty, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Club is rated by SCOREGolf Magazine as the #3 Golf Course in Canada in 2020.

Each round of golf at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Course takes you on an exquisite journey through a stunning mountain backdrop. Wildlife abounds on the course, from deer, elk and Canada Geese to the occasional, curious bear - a true Rocky Mountain mulligan!

Association News

To no surprise, reigning champion Grace Bell (Glencoe G&CC) shot a superb 71 (even par) on the Links Course at Wolf Creek GR to lead the Girls’ Division after Round 1 of the annual PGA of Alberta Junior Masters presented by Sundog Eyewear & TourTee. Sitting right behind and putting some pressure on Bell is Jenna Bruggeman (The Derrick G&WC) after firing a solid 77 to sit only a few strokes back.

For the Boys’ Division, leading the way after Round 1 was Cooper Lindberg (Glencoe G&CC) after shooting an impressive 1-over 72 .  Nipping at Lindberg’s heels heading into tomorrow in second is Carter Code (Glencoe G&CC) sitting only 1 stroke back at 2-over 73. Nine players are within 5 strokes of the leader heading into tomorrow which should make for an exciting day on the leaderboard.

Players will take their talents over to the Old Course tomorrow at Wolf Creek GR for the final round and do everything they can to take home the 2020 Junior Masters title as well as their respective Flight.

Click here for Round 1 results & Round 2 draw.

Association News

The Pro-Assistant Championship sponsored by Callaway Golf is less than a week away and will be hosted this year at the legendary Jasper Park Lodge GC! If you’re available/eligible to play, don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to play in this prestigious event. Registration deadline is this Thursday, September 3^rd at 4pm.

PLEASE NOTE - Courses are allowed to registered multiple teams for the Pro-Assistant as long as the facility has a Head and Executive Professional.



About Jasper Park Lodge GC...
Stanley Thompson, Canada’s master golf course architect, displayed some of the finest work of his career with this design. The 18-hole layout offers elevated tee boxes, dramatic bunkering and holes aligned with distant mountain vistas.  Few golf courses in the world can match the rugged majesty of this national treasure, nestled between sparkling lakes, pristine forest and rocky peaks.

Highly acclaimed for its challenging layout and spectacular beauty, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Club is rated by SCOREGolf Magazine as the #3 Golf Course in Canada in 2020.

Each round of golf at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Course takes you on an exquisite journey through a stunning mountain backdrop. Wildlife abounds on the course, from deer, elk and Canada Geese to the occasional, curious bear - a true Rocky Mountain mulligan!

Association News

Players today put on a show resulting in some fantastic scores at Northern Bear GC for the annual Pro-Pro Best Ball sponsored by longtime partner G&G Golf Company.

Shooting a remarkable 10-under 62 in the team best ball format, our champions in the Overall Division this year are Jacob Manz and Mitchell Fox of Speargrass GC. The team made a statement early going 7-under after the first seven holes to quickly move to the top of the leaderboard. They continued their solid play for the rest of the round adding 3 more birdies and playing bogey free golf to win by 2 strokes over the defending champions. With the win, Mitchell Fox adds another trophy to his mantle after winning a 1-day event at the Edmonton Garrison Memorial G&CC earlier this month.

Winners of the Ladies’ Division this year was the team of Marsha Rogers (Derrick G&WC) & Shannon Werbicki (Royal Mayfair GC) after shooting a stellar 1-over 73 to easily win by 4 strokes over their nearest competitors (picture below).

Falling just short of going back-to-back at the Pro-Pro Best Ball was the team of Spencer (Edmonton Petroleum G&CC) and Nick Vandermey (Windermere G&CC). The team ended up in second place after their solid play on the course which included 9 birdies to finish at 8-under 64.

In a 4-way tie for third place finishing at 7-under 65 for the round was the teams of Kurtis Foote and Richard Stringer (Country Hills GC), Kent Fukushima (Redwood Meadows G&CC) and Dustin Risdon (Dustin Risdon School of Golf), Cullen Wanvig (The Winston GC) and Riley Fleming (Lynx Ridge GC), & Randy Robb (Edge Golf Academy) and Scott Stiles (Earl Grey GC).

Thank you to our host venue Northern Bear GC for an excellent event and making everyone feel welcome. We will see players next at Jasper Park Lodge GC for the annual Pro-Assistant.

Click here for full results.

Association News

The PGA of Alberta Junior Masters sponsored by Sundog Eyewear & TourTee is a 36-Hole invitational Junior Golf event organized each year by the Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta. Celebrating its 30^th year in 2020, this event was initiated to provide elite level competition to a limited field of Alberta’s top junior golfers.

This year we have 57 of the top Junior Boys and Girls in the province with a highly competitive golf background competing at Wolf Creek GR in Ponoka next week on September 2^nd & 3^rd. The Girls Division Champion from 2019, Grace Bell (Glencoe G&CC), will be back to defend her title while the Boys Division will crown a new Champion this year!

Click here to view draws.


           

Association News

The draw for the annual G&G Golf Company Pro-Pro Best Ball is now available. The event will see 54 teams of Professionals head to the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course Northern Bear GC in Sherwood Park on Monday, August 31^st. Tee times will begin at 8am.

For the third year in a row, the Pro-Pro Best Ball will see a Ladies’ Division for the event. Female Professional teams will compete for a separate purse from the main field.

Click here to view draw now.

Association News

The fourth Play Ability Test of the season hosted at Lacombe G&CC on August 26^th saw 7 players pass and receive their Apprentice Professional status with the PGA of Canada! All players shot the target score or better (79 for men & 81 for women (49 & under)) in the hot conditions today to successfully pass. Congratulations to the following:

Click here for full PAT results.

Association News

The draw is now available for the fourth Play Ability Test of the season hosted at Lacombe G&CC in central Alberta on Wednesday, August 26^th. Tee times begin at 12:20pm. Good luck to the 25 players going for their Apprentice Professional status with the PGA of Canada!

Click here to view draw.
  

Association News

The draw for the fifth and final Golf Supply House Series of the season is now posted. Players will head to central Alberta at Lacombe G&CC next week on Wednesday, August 26^th to compete for the final GSH Series trophy of 2020. Tee times will begin at 10am.

The winner of the event will receive 20 Order of Merit points. After the event is concluded, we will have our official Order of Merit Champion for the 2020 season!

Click here to view the draw.

Association News

Today at the PGA of Alberta Championship sponsored by Club Car, TaylorMade Golf & adidas golf and hosted at the sprawling & beautiful River Bend G&RA saw some of the hottest but excellent playing conditions to date for our competitors to compete in this summer. With a packed field of 90 Professionals, the course saw some serious action and a significant number of low rounds which made for an exciting day on the course and watching on the leaderboard.

Four players managed to separate themselves from the loaded field today albeit by 1-stroke to sit in a 4-way tie for first! Carding scorching 5-under par 67’s today was former champion (2015 & 2016) Dustin Risdon (Dustin Risdon School of Golf), 2^nd year Professional Jaxon Lynn (Alberta Springs GR), Jeremy Maher (Modern Golf) & former champion (2012) Tyler LeBouthillier (GOLFTEC Calgary Beacon Heights). Our final group tomorrow consists of Risdon, Lynn & LeBouthillier who will be teeing off at 12:20pm. Maher will be in the 12:10pm grouping and will have the opportunity to watch his competitors come in and try to match him.

Click here for round one Results and round two Draw!

We have a jammed packed and star studded leaderboard right behind our leaders with six other players carding superb 4-under par 68’s today. This group consists of former champion (2017) Adam Bruce (Glendale G&CC), Josh Fleming (GOLFTEC Calgary Beacon Heights) continuing the strong showing by his facility, former champion (2014) Mike Belbin (Royal Mayfair GC), Stefan Cox (Calgary G&CC) who is looking for his first championship victory, former champion (2018) Riley Fleming (Lynx Ridge GC)  and last but not least, our defending Champion Wes Heffernan (Dynamic Motion Golf Performance Centre)!

We have six other competitors who carded stellar under-par rounds today and are nipping at our leaders & the pack right behind them. Three of the six carded 2-under par 70’s and this group consists of Jeff Cuthbertson (Stony Plain GC), Markus Clift (Coloniale GC) with a solid showing in his first season with the PGA of Alberta & Scott Stiles (Earl Grey GC) who has two victories this season already. The remaining three competitors at 1-under par 71’s respectively were David MacComb (Blackhawk GC), Gary Hartford (Highlands GC) & Todd Halpen (Golfuture).

Special congratulations to our two skins winners today Tyler LeBouthillier (hole #3) and Jerome Thorne Jr. (hole #8), each winning $900.

First tee time is at 7:30am sharp tomorrow! Be sure to follow the action tomorrow on our live leaderboard here > https://bit.ly/3g2kUcT

Association News

It’s that time of year again! The draw is now available for the first round of the PGA of Alberta Championship major sponsored by long-time partners TaylorMade - Club Car - adidas Golf.

Players will head to River Bend G&RA in Red Deer next week on August 17^th & 18^th to compete in the two-day stroke play major. The Championship this year will see a talented field of 91 players battling for the chance to bring home the title and claim their spot in the history books! Tee times for both rounds will begin at 7:30am.

Last year’s Champion Wes Heffernan (Dynamic Motion Golf Performance Centre) is back to defend the title and will be looking for his second win this season after taking home the GSH Series trophy at The Winston GC at the end of June.

Winner of the Championship will be awarded 50 Order of Merit points. Click here to view the current standings. Wes currently sits in first place with 95 points, a two point lead over Dustin Risdon (Dustin Risdon School of Golf) who is also playing in the Championship. More information on the event will be released shortly.

Click here to view the draw.

 

Association News

The PGA of Alberta has added a new Play Ability Test (PAT) to the schedule this season to give applicants going for their Professional status one additional opportunity if needed.

The new and final PAT will be hosted at Valley Ridge GC in Calgary on Monday, September 14^th. Start time will be approximately 3:30pm.

The next PAT will be hosted at Lacombe G&CC on Wednesday, August 26^th. Please pass this information on to anyone at your facility interested in becoming a member of the PGA of Alberta.

Click here for more information.

Association News

Golf Canada and the Golf Canada Foundation have joined together to launch the COVID-19 GOLF RELIEF FUND, to support golf courses in helping employees and golfers stay safe while also thanking front-line workers through encouraging additional play and welcoming juniors to further experience the game.

During the pandemic, golf has experienced a booming resurgence, emerging as one of the safest recreational activities for Canadians to enjoy and highlighting the physical and mental benefits that the sport provides.

Developed in consultation with key stakeholders, the RELIEF FUND will focus on two primary areas:

1. SAFETY: To help maintain the momentum of golf, the RELIEF FUND will subsidize non-medical PPE (personal protective equipment) for golf course employees, as well as sanitization, hygiene, and protective material expenses.
2. FUN: To thank front-line workers and help juniors increase social interactions and outdoor activity during the pandemic, the RELIEF FUND will subsidize rounds for both groups to enjoy playing golf.

“We find ourselves in a very surprising but special moment for golf and we wanted to show appreciation to the courses providing a safe golf experience and to all Canadians who are coming out and playing. We also wanted to thank our incredible front-line workers who are leading us through unprecedented adversity,” said Golf Canada CEO Laurence Applebaum. “We are sensitive to the ongoing pandemic and amongst the crushing impact, golf has been a bright spot. This has also been a difficult year for so many kids who have had their summers disrupted and we wanted to support our member clubs in providing youth a healthy outlet through golf.”

Golf Canada member clubs who apply for the RELIEF FUND will be eligible for subsidies up to a maximum of $1,000 per club, with applications opening on August 12 on a first-come, first-served basis.

Click here for more information.

Association News

We are saddened to announce the recent passing of PGA of Alberta Member Anthony (Tony) Griffi. Tony joined the PGA of Canada in 1988 and in 2019 reached his 25-Year milestone as a Class A Member. He was most recently the Head Golf Professional at Gilwood GC in Slave Lake, Alberta and before that was the Head Professional at Trestle Creek GR. He passed away at the age of 53.

Tony’s lifelong affair with golf began when he was 10 years old, in his hometown of Stratford, Ontario. As soon as he could, he went into an apprenticeship to be a Golf Professional, at the Stratford Country Club. He also attended University, studying electrical engineering, but didn’t like it and decided to drop it in favour of the Golf Pro option. He made the move out west to Alberta with his wife in 2014.

Click Here for Obituary

Association News

The third Play Ability Test of the season hosted at The Winston GC in Calgary on August 6^th saw 11 players pass and receive their Apprentice Professional status with the PGA of Canada! All players shot the target score or better (79 for men & 85 for women) in the hot conditions today to successfully pass. Congratulations to the following:

Click here for full PAT results.

Association News

The draw is now available for the third Play Ability Test of the season hosted at The Winston GC in Calgary on Thursday, August 6^th. Tee times begin at 2pm. Good luck to the 30 players we have going for their Apprentice Professional status with the PGA of Canada!

Click here to view draw.

Association News

The latest issue of our digital magazine the Golf Report is now available. In this special edition of the magazine, learn up to 15 helpful tips on simple ways to improve your game from our certified PGA of Canada Professionals, The Most Trusted Resource in Golf!

Other content in the magazine includes a story on the recent passing of Dave Mayes, the first ever Executive Director of the PGA of Alberta (1986-2000), and a highlight on the new Mickelson National Golf Club.

Click here to view Magazine

Association News

Dear Members, Exhibitors, Partners and Guests,

As you are already aware, the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has meant that it’s now vital to limit social contact and avoid large group gatherings. For that reason, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 PGA of Alberta Buying Show. While we know this is disappointing, we hope you can understand the steps we are taking to help keep everyone safe who attends the Show.

The Buying Show is a big part of our culture at the PGA of Alberta. It’s where our members get to do business, socialize, and catch up with one another after a busy season. Even though we will not be hosting this year, we want to keep the momentum we built last year to move into 2021.

In addition to the Buying Show, the Awards Banquet traditionally held on the second day of the Show will be cancelled as well. We will still be running the Awards Program this year since it’s an important part of our Association as we recognize the accomplishments of our hard-working members and industry representatives. More information will be released on the Awards Program in the coming weeks.

We will be processing refunds for everyone who purchased floor space at the Show this year. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Ashley Van Kroonenburg by email at ashley.vankroonenburg@pgaofalberta.com or at our office line, 403-256-8894.

Thank you for your continued support of the PGA of Alberta Buying Show and for your understanding during these unprecedented times.

Take care of one another, stay healthy and we look forward to seeing you in the near future.

Association News

The draw is now posted for Round 1 of the PGA of Alberta Assistants’ Championship proudly Sponsored by Cobra Puma Golf.

This year we will have 57 of Alberta’s finest Assistant Professionals heading west of Edmonton to Stony Plain GC on July 13^th & 14^th to compete for the first Championship title of the season and a take of the $13,900 purse.

Players will look to dethrone back-to-back defending champion Riley Fleming after winning the Championship at his now home course Lynx Ridge GC in 2019 and at The Ranch G&CC in 2018. Click here to see past champions.

Tee times will begin at 12:30pm on July 13^th and at 8:00am on July 14^th. Winner of the Championship will receive 40 Order of Merit points.

Click here to view draw

Association News

The draw is now available for the second Play Ability Test of the season hosted at Stony Plain GC on Monday, July 13^th. Tee times will begin at 3:40pm. Good luck to the 27 competitors we have going for their Apprentice Professional status with the PGA of Canada!

Click here to view draw

Association News

Scott Stiles (Earl Grey GC) had a bogey free round to win the third Golf Supply House Series event hosted at Lakeside GC.  Stiles had birdies on 15 and 16 on his way to a 7-under par 64.  It was a close battle all day with last week’s winner Wes Heffernan (Dynamic Motion Golf Performance Centre) who finished the day at 6–under 65.  Spencer Vandermey (Edmonton Petroleum G&CC) and Riley Fleming (Lynx Ridge GC) both shot 67’s to round out the top four. 

Click here for full results.

Association News

Lakeside GC will play host to the third Golf Supply House Series of the season and their first tournament since 2014.  The event will see another field size of over 50 Professionals competing for the $6,650 purse. Tee times will begin at 8am on July 6^th.

Located in beautiful Chestermere, Alberta, Lakeside’s meticulously manicured layout awaits you with large greens and many attractive yet challenging water features.

Winner of the 1-day GSH Series event will receive 20 Order of Merit points.

Click here to view the draw.

Association News

Each year the PGA of Alberta recognizes several Members and Industry Representatives for their achievements throughout the season and their career, as well as for their contributions to the Association and the Game of Golf. Members and Industry Partners are given the opportunity to vote for deserving individuals in the following categories of Awards, presented to recipients at the Annual Awards Banquet in the fall.

PGA of Alberta Awards Criteria

The Awards Process:

• Based on application forms received by each Member who has been nominated by one of their peers or industry affiliates, their application is graded by an Awards Sub Committee.
• The Sub Committees for each Award are comprised of past winners of that particular Award.
• The 5 Nominees whose application ranks the highest from Members of the sub-committee are presented to the Selection Committee as Finalists.
• The Selection Committee reviews all Award Finalists & submits confidential votes based on a point system.
• Awards are presented to the recipients with the most total accumulated points.

The finalists and application forms are forwarded to the PGA of Alberta Selection Committee Members who then submit confidential votes based on a point system. The Award recipient for each category is the Member who receives the most total accumulated points from the Selection Committee.

On October 1st, the top five Nominees who have completed the Application Form and ranked the highest in their respective Award categories, as voted on by the PGA of Alberta Award Selection Committee, will be advertised on the PGA of Alberta as Finalists, from which one will be selected as the Award Winner.

The ultimate goal of the Awards Program is to recognise the accomplishments of many Members and Industry Representatives through a nomination process.  

Association News

We are saddened to announce that PGA of Canada Honourary Life Member and first ever Executive Director of the PGA of Alberta (1986-2000) Dave Mayes has recently passed away.

After making great contributions to our Association, Dave was awarded the PGA of Alberta Lifetime Achievement Award in the Association Builder category in 2004 for his work as Executive Director that helped to build a family of golf professionals into the prominent figures of the game in Alberta, and shape the Alberta Zone of the PGA of Canada into a leader in the industry.

Our condolences goes out to his family and friends during this difficult time. More information on the Memorial Service will be provided once confirmed.

Click here to learn more about Dave.

Click here for Obituary.

Association News

Add some excitement to your tournaments and club leagues this year by purchasing Hole in One Insurance through the PGA of Alberta HIO program! In partnership with Foster Park Brokers Inc., the HIO program provides members and non-members the opportunity to purchase affordable HIO insurance for your club, corporate and charity events!

Click Here for Member Testimonials

What Denominations Can I Purchase?
Any denomination from $1,000 to $50,000 per hole can be purchased online. Should you wish to purchase more than $50,000 per hole, please contact marlene.sanderson@pgaofalberta.com for a quote. On coverage up to $100,000, PGA of Alberta members will always receive the best possible premium from Foster Park Brokers.

How Do I Purchase?
Coverage can be easily purchased on the PGA of Alberta website with the following steps:

1. Login to the website and select ‘My Hole In One’ under ’Manage Account’ or ’My Account’
2. Select the ’Create New Event’ button
3. Follow the step-by-step instructions that will guide you through the easy purchasing process. It’s as simple as that!

*If you are a non-PGA of Alberta member and interested in purchasing, please contact Marlene Sanderson at the PGA of Alberta office (see contact info below).

What are the Benefits of PGA of Alberta HIO Program?

• Competitive industry rates
• Easy to purchase online
• Purchase for one event OR for an entire season worth of events at once
• Modify your events by contacting the office based on any changes that occur throughout the season
• Fees/Premium waived if tournament is cancelled due to inclement weather
• No dealing with the insurance company directly
• Supporting the Association

Important Items to Note
Electronic scorecards are acceptable as long as they can still be signed by the winner (digital signature acceptable).

Elevated flag/holes will NOT be permitted for HIO Insurance. However, clubs are still able to purchase insurance as long as the ball drops and stays in the hole after coming to a rest. There are NO requirements for a specific depth of the hole.

Questions?
If have any questions on how this program can work for you, please contact Marlene Sanderson at the PGA of Alberta office (E: marlene.sanderson@pgaofalberta.com OR P: 403-256-8894 / TF: 1-888-866-6140).

Association News

Once again the PGA of Alberta is offering FOUR Junior Scholarships of $1,000 each to deserving applicants. Two of these scholarships will be awarded to children of PGA of Alberta Members, which doesn’t require any golf experience to apply! The other two scholarships will be awarded to Alberta Juniors who meet the specific criteria outlined on our website. Deadline is Friday, July 30th, 2020 by 4pm.

For more information OR to apply, please click here.

Association News

Albertans, dust off your golf clubs. As part of a staged economic relaunch strategy, Premier Jason Kenney announced Thursday that courses across the province will be allowed to open — with safety restrictions —  “as soon as this weekend.”

The divot-digging had been delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Clubhouses and pro shops will, for now, remain closed.

“It was about 15 seconds (after the announcement) that we had the first phone call asking to book a tee time,” said Matt Kirlin, PGA of Canada Member and Director of Golf at Lynx Ridge GC. “People are just so excited to get that first tee in the ground. And it’s really cool to see — as golf-industry operators, we’ve worked very hard to get this decision, and it makes it all worth it when you hear the excitement of Alberta golfers.”

Click here to read the full story from the Calgary Sun.

Association News

Registration for the 2020 Play Ability Tests (PAT) are now open! Take note of the PAT schedule by clicking the button below. Please pass this information on to anyone interested in becoming a member of the PGA of Alberta at your facility! For more information on the steps to become a member, please refer to the PGA of Canada Membership Roadmap.

About the PAT…
The PAT is standardized testing all Applicants must pass in order to be eligible to apply for membership. All prospective Applicants are required to register with the PGA of Canada prior to registering for a PAT in 2020. Once an application has been accepted, the PGA of Canada will notify the PGA of Alberta office that there is a new Applicant who will be attempting a PAT. The PAT’s are conducted by the Zones.

Prospective members must meet the following entrance requirements:

• Be 18 years of age
• Have a high school diploma or higher
• Currently work in the golf industry
• Complete a police check with Sterling BackCheck Online
• Pass a sanctioned Playing Ability Test

PAT Target Score...

• 1 round PAT
• No maximum number of attempts per year
• All PAT’s are open to all Applicants
• For Men, 49 years of age & under - the course rating plus 9 
• For Men, 50 years of age & older - the course rating plus 11 
• For Women, 49 years of age & under- the course rating plus 13 
• For Women, 50 years of age & older - the course rating plus 15

New PAT Process...
Step 1 - Register online at pgaofcanada.com - The cost is $325 plus tax, which includes your 1st PAT attempt and is valid for one year from the date of the registration. After a year, you must re-register as an Applicant to register for and attempt a PAT.

Step 2 - Register online at pgaofcanada.com for all PAT’s - ($150 per each additional attempt)

If an Applicant is unsuccessful in each of their PAT attempts over the course of a season, those Applicants may try again the following season. Successful Applicants will pay membership dues for the upcoming season at that time. 

Click here for more information on the application process and the steps that need to be taken after becoming a member.

Association News

The April issue of the PGA of Alberta digital magazine the “Golf Report” is now live! The magazine features many stories including a message from PGA of Alberta Executive Director & NAGA - Alberta’s President Robert Rousselle who makes a convincing case of why golf may be just what everyone needs right now.

Other topics include a look at a potential "new normal" where golf courses opening would be more than possible and a review of recent events and interviews with stakeholders on potential consequences.

Click here to view magazine

Association News

With everything currently transpiring in the golf industry due to COVID-19, we would like to offer additional support to members by opening the PGA of Alberta Mentorship Program (separate from the PGA of Canada Mentorship Program) to all interested Apprentice Professionals in the Association as well as any Class A members that would like to be assigned a Mentor with more experience within the industry.

About the Mentorship Program…
The PGA of Alberta Mentorship Program provides guidance and direction to new members of the Association. Developed in conjunction with the Assistants’ Board of Directors, the objective of the Mentorship Program is to create a group of Members who are passionate about their careers, the industry and Association, leading to long-term commitment to the golf industry.

Expectations of our Mentors…

• Commit to the Mentor/Mentee relationship for a minimum of 2-years
• Be accountable for their Mentee and provide continuous support to you on an ongoing basis as needed
• Set parameters of the relationship with you and create a plan for goals/objectives on what both parties want achieved

Top 100 Points…
All Mentees will receive 3 Top 100 points for their involvement in the Mentorship Program. These points are awarded annually in September. All Mentees must attempt to be involved in the program and submit an evaluation form at the end of the season before receiving points.

Contact...
If interested in being assigned a Mentor, please contact trevor.rioux@pgaofalberta.com at the PGA office for more information. Mentors are assigned based on several factors including geographical location to the Mentee. Please ignore this message if you have already been assigned a Mentor this year.

Association News

After another strong & successful year,  the Education Committee would like to announce that the Committee has  officially been dissolved and is commencing a new application process.  If you wish to be considered for the 2020/2021 Education Committee, please submit a brief cover letter stating why you wish to be involved and a summary of your contributions to the Education Committee (or other Committees’) in recent years.

An active wait-list of members interested in joining the Education Committee will also be invited to submit a cover letter outlining their motivations for joining the group. All submissions should be sent to Aaron McKay (aaron.mckay@pgaofalberta.com) before the deadline of April 20, 2020. The new Committee will be announced by May 4.

Responsibilities
The Education Committee shall meet as a Committee up to 4-times per year and at the call of the Chairs for:

1. Spring Seminar
2. PD Series
3. Buying Show Education
4. Further education development that works within the scope of the PGA of Canada curriculum

The Chairs will provide a report on Committee activity at each Board of Directors meeting even if no formal Committee Meetings have taken place.

Top 100 Points - Each member will receive 5 Top 100 points for being a part of the Committee (see more information here).

If you have any questions, please contact aaron.mckay@pgaofalberta.com.

Association News

Congratulations to the following sixteen members for reaching their 25-Year milestone as a Class A Member of the PGA of Canada in 2020! All Members were recognized at the PGA of Alberta Annual General Meeting earlier in March for their outstanding dedication to the PGA of Canada and Golf Industry. With such an accomplishment, the National office will recognize each members milestone with a special certificate!

Glenn Boswell (Glencoe G&CC)
Shelley Charlton (Pinebrook G&CC)
Cameron Code (Edson GC)
Bob Davidchuk (Canal at Delacour)
Dana Down (Canmore G&CC)
Bill Dreger (Canmore G&CC)
Judy Forshner (Glencoe G&CC)
Rick Gross (PGA of Alberta Member)
Jerry Linquist (Lewis Estates GC)
Ray Meria (Life Member)
Jay Myren (Priddis Greens G&CC)
Blair Oko (Blair Oko Golf Academy)
Douglas Rowswell (Broadmoor GC)
Rick Thompson (Edson GC)
Steven Thomson (Glencoe G&CC)
John Wilson (Montgomery Glen GC)

Association News

We Are Golf (The National Allied Golf Associations/NAGA) are committed to ensuring the health and safety of our members, golfers, staff, volunteers and industry stakeholders as well as every Canadian in the communities where we live, work and play.

The COVID-19 crisis is an unprecedented and difficult time for Canadians. We Are Golf fully supports the recommendations and guidelines of Health Canada, the World Health Organization and regional public health experts to stop the community spread of the virus. As leaders in an industry that employs more than 300,000 Canadians and includes nearly six million golfers from coast to coast, our priority above all else is the health and safety of our people and our communities.

Where governments have not mandated the temporary closure of golf courses, operators of those facilities should take every health and safety precaution. We Are Golf also advocates for the essential need for golf course property maintenance during any of the temporary closures to be ready for operation while taking every health and safety precaution.

We look forward to better and healthier days and when the time is right for Canadians to return to recreational normalcy, clubs and courses will be ready to welcome golfers back to the tee.

Golf Canada | PGA of Canada | National Golf Course Owners Association - Canada | Canadian Society of Club Managers | Canadian Golf Superintendents Association

Association News

Government introduces Canada Emergency Benefit to help works and businesses.

To support workers and help businesses keep their employees, the government has proposed legislation to establish the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB). This taxable benefit would provide $2,000 a month for up to four months for workers who lose their income as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The CERB would be a simpler and more accessible combination of the previously announced Emergency Care Benefit and Emergency Support Benefit.

Full announcement here: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/news/2020/03/introduces-canada-emergency-response-benefit-to-help-workers-and-businesses.html

Read the full Federal Aid Update

PGA of Canada Update

We understand that this is a difficult and uncertain time for golf professionals and club operators across the country.

The PGA of Canada and its nine Zones are committed to providing updated resources and tips for members that are currently working at facilities that remain open for business, as well as members that are in self-isolation or those off of work as a result of COVID-19.

As always, please adhere to the latest guidelines published by local, provincial and federal authorities with respect to COVID-19.

Prevent the Spread

All Albertans are encouraged to take personal steps to help prevent the spread. To protect yourself and others:

• stay home and away from others if sick or in isolation
• wash hands often
• cover coughs and sneezes
• avoid touching face with unwashed hands
• avoid travel outside Canada
• self-isolate for 14 days if returning from travel outside Canada or were exposed to COVID-19

Monitor Your Symptoms

If you have symptoms, like a dry cough, fever, fatigue or difficulty breathing:

• stay home - do not go to an ER or clinic
• take the COVID-19 self-assessment
• call Health Link 811 for instructions and testing

 Resources

• Infection prevention and control precautions for health-care settings
• Help Prevent the Spread posters

We care about your well being. here is the updated employment rule changes as per the Government of Alberta.

Click Here for updates on Employment Support 
from the Alberta Government

Emergency Isolation Support

• This will be a temporary program for working adult Albertans who must self-isolate because they meet the Government of Alberta’s published criteria for self-isolation, including persons who are the sole care-giver for a dependent who must self-isolate because they meet the public health criteria, and who will not have another source of pay or compensation while they are self-isolated.
• A one-time payment of $1,146 will be distributed to bridge the gap until the federal emergency payments begin in April.
• We expect the program to be available through a simple online application this week and that funds will be deposited in the accounts of eligible recipients beginning at that time.

More information on how to apply will be available soon.

Golf Club Owners and Managers

The associations are continuing their efforts to better understand the regulations on golf clubs during this critical period of the year. You can make a business request at the following link to contribute to this process: https://www.sondage.mtess.gouv.qc.ca/index.php/916397?newtest=Y&lang=fr.

Member Assistance Program (MAP)

All members have access to free, professional and confidential counselling, coaching and consulting services through the PGA of Canada Member Assistance Program provided by FSEAP. These services can help you manage personal, family, and/or work-related concerns. 

FSEAP is working diligently to ensure strong business continuity through these turbulent times. Their services are expected to remain seamless but may be delivered through telephone or video rather than in person given the nature of current events. 

Services can be accessed 24/7 online or toll-free by calling 1-844-720-1212.

Resources

• OHS: Respiratory viruses and the workplace
• Employment standards rules
• Business continuity planning (PDF, 319 KB)
• WCB: COVID-19 worker fact sheet (PDF, 57 KB)
• WCB: COVID-19 employer fact sheet (PDF, 70 KB)
• POSTERS: Help Prevent the Spread

Association News

We are please to introduce our Virtual Golf Show! With COVID-19 cancelling the Golf Shows this year we still wanted to offer our consumers All The Deals!

With a click of a mouse you can still get the deals offered at the Golf Shows. We pride on being "The Most Trusted Resource in Golf" and with Golf Season around the corner lets start looking forward to brighter days on the links!

Please note there will be new deals coming in daily! 

Association News

The Zone office staff will be working remotely but will remain reachable by email and phone during regular business hours (8:30am - 4:30pm MST) Monday through Friday to ensure continued support for our members and partners during these difficult times.

Click here for office staff contact information.

Association News

After many years of hard work and service, the PGA of Alberta RV has officially retired. The Association sold the RV at the end of February this year after buying it back in 2013.

Members and avid golfers alike will remember the PGA RV being present at many different Association events over the years including PGA on Wheels community events, Tournaments, Buying Show and our Golf Shows.

After many useful years with the RV as a Tournament/Event vehicle, it was decided to sell it and purchase an additional trailer for use at events. Stay tuned for the new trailer design coming soon.

Click here to view some pictures of the RV in its heyday.

Association News

Congratulations to the following Members on being elected to the Board of Directors today (March 2^nd) at the PGA of Alberta Annual General Meeting:

• Chris Schatzmann (Stewart Creek G&CC, newly elected)
• Todd Halpen (Golf Canada Centre/Golfuture, newly elected)
• Greg McGarry (Glendale G&CC, re-elected)
• Tahlon Sweenie (Jasper Park Lodge GC, re-elected)

Congratulations to the following Members on being elected to the Assistants’ Board of Directors:

• Michael McEachern (Country Hills GC, newly elected)
• Shane Garbutt (Blackhawk GC, newly elected)
• Stephen Yanitski (Valley Ridge GC, newly elected)
• Taylor Van Tighem (Royal Mayfair GC, newly elected)
• Joel Douglas (Inglewood G&CC, re-elected)

Association News

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Members of the Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta will be held on Monday, March 2^nd, 2020 at The Derrick Golf and Winter Club (3500 119 St NW) in Edmonton. Start time will be 9:00am.

Elections for the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors and Assistants’ Board will be held at the AGM. Please click on the below links to view this years Nominees for each respective Board. If you did not receive information on the AGM, please contact the PGA office.

Board of Directors Nominees - Click Here

Assistants’ Board of Directors Nominees - Click Here

Association News

We are saddened to announce the passing of Bud Loftus, PGA of Canada Life Member and PGA of Alberta Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. Bud passed away on January 24^th at the age of 89.

Born on June 25th, 1930 in Vancouver, B.C. and raised in Edmonton, AB, George (Bud) Loftus first started playing golf at the young age of 6 at the Edmonton’s Victoria Golf Course.  He started his career at the Highlands G&CC in 1948 under the wings of Head Professional Henry Martell as an employee and a player. He became later one of the PGA of Canada’s most distinguished Golf Professionals.

During that time, he worked as the Head Professional at the Willowdale GC (Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan) and the Regal GC (now The Winston GC in Calgary), as well as an Assistant Professional at the Calgary G&CC. In 1962, he made his formal application to the PGA of Canada and became Head Professional at the Calgary G&CC in 1963, where he would remain until 1975. In 1988, after brief stints as Head Professional at the Shuswap Lake Estates GC in BC and the Edson GC in Alberta, Bud decided to retire from his career in golf.

Bud became just the third Member to receive the PGA of Alberta Lifetime Achievement Award in the Player Category, joining fellow PGA of Canada Members Henry Martell and Frank Fowler.

More information on the Memorial Service will be provided once confirmed. Click Here to learn more about Bud.

Association News

If you are interested in running for a position on either the Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta Board of Directors or Assistants’ Board of Directors, please click the link below (login required) for more information and to be directed to the Nomination form which can be submitted online. Deadline to submit is Friday, January 17^th, 2020 by 4pm.

Annual General Meeting - Both elections will be held at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Members of the Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta on Monday, March 2^nd, 2020 at The Derrick G&WC in Edmonton, Alberta.

Click Here for Nomination Form

Association News

The Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta would like to wish everyone and their families a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Our office will be closed starting December 23^rd and will be open again on December 30^th. Please note the office will be closed on January 1^st for New Year’s Day.

Association News

The PGA of Alberta is proud to announce that three members from Alberta won a 2019 PGA of Canada National Award! All three members were also the recipients of the matching provincial award in October and have been recognized nationally for their dedication and achievements this past year. Our winners from Alberta are:

Chris Cooke (Kananaskis Country GC) – Moe Norman Apprentice Professional of the Year

Sam Kirkness (Priddis Greens G&CC) – Stan Leonard Class “A” Professional of the Year

Wes Heffernan (Dynamic Motion Golf Performance Centre) – Mike Weir Player of the Year

Chris, Sam, and Wes will all be recognized at the PGA of Canada Awards Night in January taking place at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, Florida. Congratulations to all the other National Award Winners and Finalists.

Click here to learn more about this years winners.

Association News

The newest issue of the PGA of Alberta Digital Magazine, the Golf Report, is now live! This magazine is in partnership with Inside Golf covering the latest Association and Industry news. Inside this issue includes stories on the following:

• PGA of Alberta Buying Show and Award Winners
• Interview with Club Professional of the Year, Greg Kincade
• New World Handicap System Being Rolled Out in 2020
• PGA of Alberta Bursary and Scholarship Recipients
• Early Bird Registration for 2020 Alberta Golf Shows

Click here to view magazine.

Association News

Congratulations to Sam Kirkness of Priddis Greens G&CC on being elected President of the PGA of Alberta Assistants’ Board of Directors. Sam has been a member of the Assistants’ Board since 2017 and has been actively involved in the Association through all facets including committees, tournaments and education.

Being appointed as the new Vice President of the Assistants’ Board was Joel Douglas of Inglewood G&CC. Like Sam, Joel has been an active Association member since passing his PAT in 2014 and has been on the Assistants’ Board since the beginning of 2018.

The Assistants’ Board is in great hands with Sam, Joel, and the other five Board members all working hard to make a positive impact for the PGA of Alberta.

Sam Kirkness	Joel Douglas

About the Assistants’ Board of Directors...
Class A Professionals and Apprentice Professionals also have a voice in the Association, through the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Eight Class A Members or Apprentice Professionals are invited to run annually for two-year terms on the Assistants’ Board of Directors, and upon election assume a portfolio, and attend Committee meetings consistent with those on the Board of Directors.

Association News

The PGA of Alberta announced the winners of the annual awards on Wednesday, October 23rd at the Calgary BMO Centre. Individuals were recognized for their achievements throughout the season and their career, as well as for their contributions to the Association and the game of golf.

Some of the categories recognised included Club Professional, Teacher, Junior Leader and Executive Professional of the Year! Congratulations to all of the winners and nominees! See winners below.

Greg Kincade (Edmonton CC), Club Professional of the Year

Murray McCourt (The Ranch G&CC), Executive Professional of the Year

Sam Kirkness (Priddis Greens G&CC), Assistant Professional of the Year - Class A

Chris Cooke (Kananaskis Country GC), Assistant Professional of the Year - Apprentice Professional

Derek Baker (Derek Baker Golf Academy), Teacher of the Year

Lyndon King (Collicutt Siding GC), Junior Leader of the Year

Randy Robb (Edge Golf School), Coach of the Year

Sean Thompson (Cottonwood G&CC), Top 100 Award

Jared Engel (adidas Golf), Sales Representative of the Year

Red Deer G&CC, Retailer of the Year (Private)

Sirocco GC, Retailer of the Year (Public)

Golf Supply House, Jack Skellern Patron of the Year

Wes Heffernan (Dynamic Motion Golf Performance Centre), Player of the Year

Dallas Cantera (Cardiff G&CC), Head Professional Order of Merit Champion

Marsha Rogers (The Derrick G&WC), Ladies’ Order of Merit Champion

Riley Fleming (NGA Dome), Assistant Professional Order of Merit Champion

Association News

The PGA of Alberta is pleased to present four bursaries of $750 each to the following deserving Assistant Professionals in the Association:

1. Chris Cooke (Kananaskis Country GC)
2. Jennifer MacKinnon (Earl Grey GC)
3. Scott Stiles (The Winston GC)
4. Michael McEachern (Woodside GC)

Congratulations and thank you to everyone who applied.

Read More

Association News

The PGA of Alberta is excited to announce the 2019 Awards Finalists! Winners will be announced at the PGA of Alberta Awards Banquet on Wednesday, October 23^rd at the Calgary Stampede BMO Centre. These Awards include:

• Club Professional of the Year
• Executive Professional of the Year
• Assistant Professional of the Year – Class A & Apprentice Professional
• Teacher of the Year
• Junior of the Year
• Coach of the Year
• Sales Rep of the Year
• Retailer of the Year – Private & Public

All Members, Exhibitors and Partners of the PGA of Alberta are encouraged to join us for this evening of recognition and celebration! The Cocktail Party will begin at 5pm and the Awards Banquet will start at 5:30pm. Good luck to all Finalists!

Click here to view Finalists

Association News

The deadline to apply for a Bursary has been extended to Monday, September 30th at 4pm. The PGA of Alberta is happy to present a total of four bursaries of $750 each to deserving Apprentice and Class A Assistant Professionals who meet or exceed the bursary criteria as outlined below.

All Apprentice and Class A Assistant Professionals (who are not employed as Head/Executive Professionals) are eligible and encouraged to apply. Two of the bursaries will be reserved for seasonal Apprentice Professionals (working 9-months or less for their employer). 

Winners of the bursaries will be announced at the annual Awards Banquet during the Buying Show on Wednesday, October 23^rd.

Bursary Criteria

1. Participation in Association & Industry Events
2. Volunteer Experience
3. Education
4. Work Experience & Responsibilities
5. Reference Letter
6. Declaration

Association News

The latest and greatest issue of the PGA of Alberta Digital Magazine the "Golf Report" is now live! This issue features lots of great content such as a highlight of our recent tournaments winners, information on the PGA of Alberta Bursary Program, Buying Show Education Series Seminars, our 2019 Junior Scholarship recipients, and much more!

CLICK HERE to view the magazine.

Association News

Association News

Each year the PGA of Alberta is proud to award four Junior Scholarships of $1,000 each. Two of the Scholarships are awarded to children of PGA of Alberta Members and the other two are awarded to selected Alberta Juniors who meet specific criteria.

Congratulations to Jonas Nelson (Dave Nelson – Henderson Lake GC) and Michael Grant (Clive Grant – Golf Supply House) for each winning the PGA of Alberta Family Scholarships. Winning the Golf Specific Scholarships are Sebastian Farkas (Silver Springs G&CC) and Victoria Tse (Country Hills GC). Thank you to everyone that applied for a Scholarship this year!

Click here to see winners.

Association News

The newest issue of the PGA of Alberta Digital Magazine... the "Golf Report" is now live! Content in this issue includes stories on the upcoming PGA of Alberta Buying Show, renovations at Stony Plain GC, details on the PGA of Alberta Bursary & Top 100 Programs, and much more.

Click here to view the newest issue now.

Association News

The PGA of Alberta’s Education Committee is proud to announce the third annual Winter Teaching Summit, hosted again in beautiful Arizona. This year’s 3 day Education event will include two full days of instruction and one day of golf at a highly prestigious and exclusive local golf course. The PGA of Alberta is happy to announce that Registration for this event will open at 4pm on Tuesday, August 13^th.

With dates confirmed for Saturday November 30^th, Sunday December 1st and Monday December 2^nd that conveniently precedes the PGA of Canada Head Professional Championship. We encourage you to extend your trip to go and support our great Professionals.

This event will give a select group of PGA of Alberta members (16 participant’s max) the chance to observe and participate in interactive lessons with three of the most sought-after instructors in North America – Pia Nilsson and Lynn Marriott of Vision54 hosted at Talking Stick in Scottsdale. Returning this year due to popular demand and previous Teaching Summit Instructor is Gabriel Hjertstedt to be hosted at TPC Scottsdale.

 During the 8-hours of instruction each day, participants will take a 60-minute lesson to work on their own game as well as develop their coaching skills by observing the other participants take their lessons. Always with the ability to ask questions in real time to both student and teacher to maximize their learning experience. The combined cost of taking a single lesson with each instructor would normally cost in excess of $1000 CAD but PGA of Alberta members will have access to 16 hours of top-notch instruction at a fraction of that cost.

Total cost for trip is $700 CAD.

 *Please note that there are limited spots (16) available and will be given on a first come first serve basis with a waiting list once all spots are filled.

*Please also note that while there is no green-fee cost for the golf there will be a forecaddie fee of $70 USD + Tip per person.

*Please also note that participants are responsible for securing their own flights and accommodation’s.

**If you have any question’s please feel free to contact - Aaron.Mckay@pgaofalberta.com

Association News

The fourth Play Ability Test of the season hosted at Lynx Ridge GC saw some up and down weather but six players managed to pass and receive their Apprentice Professional status with the PGA of Canada!

Congratulations to Samuel Roy (Banff Springs GC), Jason Kim (Lloydminster G&CC), Luke Luciano (Links of GlenEagles), Kenny Maki (Fernie G&CC), Brady Grimble (River Spirit GC), and Dario Alvarez.

Click here for full PAT results.

Association News

The draw is now available for the 4th Play Ability Test of the season at Lynx Ridge GC on Tuesday, August 6th and Wednesday, August 7th. Tee times will begin at 1:30pm on August 6th and will begin at 11:30am on August 7th. Round two draw will be created immediately following the competition of round 1. Good luck to all 18 competitors going for their card!

Click here to view the field and draw.

Association News

The third Play Ability Test of the season hosted at Inglewood G&CC concluded on a beautiful day today. Round two, which had been rescheduled due to poor weather conditions, saw some excellent scores posted with four competitors achieving their target scores to become PGA of Canada Golf Professionals!

Congratulations to Matthew Cupido (Banff Springs GC), Carter Leys (Banff Springs GC), Erich Binner (Priddis Greens G&CC) & Zac Weiss (Evergreen GC). Click here for full results.

Click here to see upcoming PAT’s on the schedule.

Association News

The final PGA on Wheels event in 2019 saw a great turnout of kids and families at the RCMP Musical Ride in Beaumont on July 21st. Many kids and adults took part in the PGA on Wheels golf activities by receiving tips from our talented PGA of Alberta Professionals who are known as the Most Trusted Resource in Golf.

Thank you to the following Professionals for volunteering their time to support the local community event in Beaumont; Chris Ward (Edmonton Petroleum G&CC), Dustin Ranger (Edmonton Petroleum G&CC), Matthew Mah (Mill Woods GC), Mike McEvay (Goose Hummock GR) & Shawn Fagan (Edmonton Petroleum G&CC).

We look forward to another year of the PGA on Wheels program in 2020! If you are interested in hosting a PGA on Wheels event in the future, please click here.

Association News

The deadline to apply for a PGA of Alberta Junior Scholarship has been EXTENDED to Friday, July 26^th. For 2019, there is once again four Scholarships of $1,000 each up for grabs. Two of these scholarships will be awarded to children of PGA of Alberta Members (no golf experience needed) and the other two will be awarded to selected Alberta Junior boys/girls who meet the specific golf criteria as stated on the application form.

Application forms must be submitted by 4pm on July 26^th to be considered for a scholarship this year. Click Read More below for more information on the program or to apply.

Read More ›

Association News

The PGA of Alberta is pleased to present four Bursaries of $750 each to deserving PGA of Alberta members who are either Candidates for Membership or Class A Professionals and meet or exceed the bursary criteria as outlined. These bursaries will be awarded at the Awards Banquet during the Buying Show on Wednesday, October 23rd.

All CFM’s and Class A Professionals (who are not employed as Head/Executive Professionals) are eligible and encouraged to apply. A minimum of two of the bursaries will be reserved for seasonal CFM’s (working 9 months or less for their employer). Please click the below link to be directed to the application form. Deadline to submit is September 27 at 4pm.

Association News

Once again the PGA of Alberta is offering FOUR Junior Scholarships of $1,000 each to deserving applicants. Two of these scholarships will be awarded to children of PGA of Alberta Members, which doesn’t require any golf experience to apply! The other two scholarships will be awarded to Alberta Juniors who meet the specific criteria outlined on our website. Deadline to apply is July 12th, 2019 by 4pm.

For more information OR to apply, please click here. 

Association News

The PGA on Wheels is proud to have attended the inaugural Calgary Golf Festival that took place at Cottonwood G&CC on July 4^th. The event allowed families or groups in all shapes and sizes the opportunity to experience golf in a whole new way by renting a hole on the course for 90 minutes at a cost of only $20!

Despite the weather not cooperating the best, the PGA on Wheels area saw many kids throughout the day taking part in the various junior golf activities setup. Thank you to the following PGA of Alberta Professionals for volunteering their time to support the event; Bryce Halverson (The Winston GC), Chris Ward (Edmonton Petroleum G&CC), Dale Tomlinson (The Winston GC), Josh Fleming (GOLFTEC Calgary Beacon Heights), Josh Gardner (Oasis Greens GC), Michael Graham (Cottonwood G&CC), Sean Thompson (Cottonwood G&CC), Shannon Raina (Sirocco GC) & Tyler Willner (Lakeside GC). Click here to watch a short video from the event.

The final PGA on Wheels event on the calendar will head North to Beaumont for the RCMP Musical Ride on Sunday, July 21^st. To volunteer at the event, please click Read More below.

Read More

Association News

For the third consecutive year, the PGA on Wheels Program attended the Sport Calgary All Sport One Day event in Calgary on June 15^th. Throughout the course of the event, the PGA on Wheels area saw over 115 kids aged 6-17 that received instruction from PGA of Alberta Professionals while taking part in the various junior golf activities setup. Thank you to our Professionals Dale Tomlinson (The Winston GC), Darryl James (NGA @ Shaganappi), Michael Graham (Cottonwood G&CC), Sean Thompson (Cottonwood G&CC) and Terry Carter (NGA Dome) for volunteering their time to support the PGA on Wheels Program.

The remaining two PGA on Wheels events on the calendar is the Family Golf Festival on July 4^th at Cottonwood G&CC and the RCMP Musical Ride on July 21^st in Beaumont. To volunteer for either event, please click Read More below.

Read More

Association News

The rules of golf have changed substantially. Officials from Golf Canada, the United States Golf Association and the Royal & Ancient made the most sweeping revisions to golf’s rules in more than 60 years this year. What does it mean to you? And did they go far enough? “The existing rule book was pretty complicated. They’ve made it easier to understand and they’ve simplified things,” said Dunc Mills, a level 2 referee with Alberta Golf, who has been helping with several clinics at golf courses across Alberta put on by Alberta Golf to explain the myriad of changes.

Click here to read the full article from the Edmonton Journal.

Association News

For the second year in a row, the PGA on Wheels program attended the Annual Go Girl event at the Collicutt Centre in Red Deer to help grow the game to young girls. Over 120 girls participated in the PGA on Wheels and received golf instruction from PGA of Alberta Members. Thank you to the following Professionals for taking time out of their day to support the program and help grow the game: Chris Ward (Edmonton Petroleum G&CC), David MacMicken (Brooks GC), John Deneer (PGA of Alberta Member), Logan Hill (River Bend G&RA) and Sean Thompson (Cottonwood G&CC). If you are interested in volunteering at future PGA on Wheels events, please click here to be directed to the volunteer form.

Click here to learn more about the PGA on Wheels program.

Association News

Attention PGA of Alberta Members & Non-Members!

Registration for our 2019 Playing Ability Tests will officially open on April 15th for all PAT events on our schedule. If you know anyone who is interested in joining the Association and becoming a Golf Professional please share the below link with them. It is crucial to try and recruit as many new members as we can to help sustain the Association’s long term goals and visions.

Please click here for our 2019 PAT Information Package. Click here for our 2019 PAT Schedule and to register!

Association News

The PGA of Alberta is excited to launch the 2019 Hole-In-One Program. Once again, the PGA of Alberta is working in conjunction with Foster Park Brokers (FPB) to provide all Members and Non-Members with the opportunity to purchase Hole-In-One Insurance for your corporate, charity, and club events for the 2019 golf season! 

Benefits of purchasing HIO Insurance through PGA of Alberta

• Competitive industry rates
• Easy to purchase online
• Purchase for one event or for an entire season worth of events at once!
• Supporting the Association

This program provides members with preferred pricing on prize limits ranging from $500 to $50,000. FPB is also able to accommodate prize limits up to $1,000,000 outside of the program. Coverage can be purchased on the PGA of Alberta website by logging in to your member profile and selecting ‘My Hole In One’. Step-by-step instructions will guide you through the easy purchasing process. It’s as simple as that!

Click here to purchase HIO Insurance (login required).

Association News

Congratulations to the following Members for reaching the 25-Year milestone as a Class A Member of the PGA of Canada:

• Patrick Coli (Carnmoney GC)
• Kevin Day (Billy D’s GC)
• Anthony Griffi (Gilwood G&CC)
• Brian Oliphant
• Ken Stasiewich (Priddis Greens G&CC)
• Richard Stringer
• John D. Wilson (Priddis Greens G&CC)

All Members were recognized at the Annual General Meeting on March 4th for their outstanding dedication to the PGA of Canada and Golf Industry.

Association News

We would like to give a special thank you to Trevor Goplin (The Derrick G&WC) for all of his efforts over the last two years as President of the PGA of Alberta.

At the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting on March 4^th, Trevor officially passed the torch to the new PGA of Alberta President Greg McGarry (Glendale G&CC). Greg has been a Board Member since 2008 and brings with him a wealth of knowledge of the Association as he moves into his new role. Greg officially announced Dale Tomlinson (The Winston GC) as the new Vice President.

Click here to learn more about Greg McGarry.

Association News

Congratulations to the following Members on being elected to the Board of Directors on March 4th at the PGA of Alberta Annual General Meeting; Matt Johnson (Royal Mayfair GC, re-elected), Chris Paskin (Desert Blume GC, newly elected), Jason Stanier (Inglewood G&CC, re-elected) and Dale Tomlinson (The Winston GC, re-elected).

Congratulations to the following Members on being elected to the Assistants’ Board of Directors; Bryce Halverson (The Winston GC, newly elected), Sam Kirkness (Priddis Greens G&CC, re-elected), Eric Locke (Priddis Greens G&CC, newly elected) and Troy Mills (Jasper Park Lodge GC, newly elected).

Read More ›

Association News

We are very excited to announce that the PGA of Alberta Buying Show will be heading South in 2019 to the BMO Centre in Calgary, Alberta. The dates of this years Buying Show will be October 22-24, 2019, one week after the Thanksgiving holiday.

After much consideration by the Board of Directors, the change in location from Edmonton to Calgary will benefit many of the stakeholders involved with the Show, which include:

• Easy access to Calgary International Airport with increased flight options for attendees
• Hotels & Restaurants within walking distance of the BMO Centre
• Increased entertainment options available allowing for better networking opportunities
• Transportation access to venue by Calgary’s C-Train transit system
• Better accessibility for PGA of Canada Members in bordering provinces

The BMO Centre is the largest convention centre in Calgary and is a world-class facility located in the heart of the city. By moving the Show to this venue located on the Stampede Grounds, attendees will have better access to hotels, transportation, restaurants, entertainment, etc., all within walking distance from the venue, helping make for a better overall experience.

“The Buying Show has been very successful for a very long time at the current venue, but we’ve heard loud and clear from all participants that its time for change” said PGA of Alberta Member and Chairman of the Buying Show Committee Shawn Lavoie. “The BMO Centre in Calgary will offer everyone a greater experience on all fronts. The logistics for our partners will be vastly improved. The social aspect will also be a great step forward with the proximity of hotels and restaurants in the area. The BMO centre will be a great fit for years to come”.

Lastly, the annual PGA of Alberta Awards Banquet will be held at the BMO Centres Palomino Room during the week of the Buying Show. We look forward to recognising our Members and Industry Representatives for what will be a memorable night for everyone involved.

About the PGA of Alberta Buying Show…

The PGA of Alberta is proud to present the largest Buying Show in Canada each year. The purpose of this show is to bring Golf Professionals and Equipment Manufacturers together in order to prepare their inventories for the following season.

Over the course of the three-day show, close to 1200 people gather from across the country and beyond for a look at what’s new and exciting in the golf industry. The Buying Show is an event restricted to Members of the PGA of Canada, Non-PGA of Canada Golf Facilities and Golf Industry Equipment Manufacturers.

Exhibitor registration for the 2019 Buying Show at the BMO Centre in Calgary will open in June. If your company would like to attend the Show, please contact Quinn Logan (quinn.logan@pgaofalberta.com) to request a registration package once available.

For more information on the PGA of Buying Show, please click here.

Association News

The PGA of Alberta’s Annual General Meeting will take place at 9:00am on March 4^th at the Carriage House Inn in Calgary (9030 Macleod Trail S). Information on the AGM has been sent to all members, including Mail-In Ballots for both the Board of Directors and the Assistants’ Board. Members are encouraged to attend the AGM even if unable to attend the Spring Seminar afterwards.

If you are unable to attend the AGM this year, be sure to send in your Ballot form to the PGA office. If you did not receive this form, please contact Trevor Rioux at the PGA office (403-256-8894).

Nominee Bios
Board of Directors - Sets all policies, rules and regulations for the PGA of Alberta, meeting on a quarterly basis to conduct the business affairs on behalf of the Members.  There are between nine and twelve Members elected to the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors, all are Class A Members of the PGA of Canada. Elections to the Board are held every year at the Annual General Meeting and election terms are set at three years. There will be four spots open for election in 2019 for the Board of Directors. Click here to view Nominee Bios.

Assistants’ Board of Directors - Assistant Professionals and Candidates for Membership also have a voice in the Association, through the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Eight Class A Members or Candidates for Membership are invited to run annually for two-year Committee terms on the Assistants’ Board of Directors, and upon election assume a portfolio, and attend Committee meetings consistent with those on the Board of Directors. There will be four spots open for election in 2019 for the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Click here to view Nominee Bios.

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Association News

There are several Committees within the PGA of Alberta, who meet regularly to execute events or to provide information and insight for consideration by the Board of Directors on existing or required policies, rules and regulations. Depending upon the nature of the Committee and its’ mandate, Committee meetings are held annually, bi-annually or quarterly. All Members are encouraged to participate and become involved in the Committee of their choice by contacting the Committee Chair(s) or the PGA of Alberta Office.

Click here to view the respective Chairs and Members for all PGA of Alberta Committees (login required).

Association News

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Members of the Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta will be held on Monday, March 4, 2019 at the Carriage House Inn (9030 MacLeod Trail S) in Calgary, Alberta. Start time will be 9:00am.

Elections for the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors and Assistants’ Board will be held at the AGM. Please click on the below links to view this years Nominee Bios for each respective Board. If you did not receive information on the AGM, please contact Trevor Rioux at the PGA office (trevor.rioux@pgaofalberta.com).

Board of Directors Nominee Bios - Click Here

Assistants’ Board of Directors Nominee Bios - Click here

Association News

If you are interested in running for a position on either the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors or Assistants’ Board of Directors, please click Read More below for more information and to be directed to the Nomination form which can be submitted online. Deadline to submit is January 18, 2019 by 4pm.

Elections will be held at the Annual General Meeting of the Members of the Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta on Monday, March 4, 2019 at the Carriage House Inn in Calgary, Alberta.

Read More ›

Association News

The PGA of Alberta would like to wish everyone and their families a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Our office will be closed starting December 24^th and will be open again on January 2^nd.

Association News

PGA of Canada Life Member and PGA of Alberta Lifetime Achievement Award winner, Alan Ewen passed away on December 12^th at the age of 85.

Born on November 27^th, 1933, and raised in Dunfermline, Scotland, Alan got his start in the game of golf when he came to Canada at age 27, playing at the Victoria GC in Edmonton. His natural ability allowed him to progress quickly in the game and following a brief stint as President of the Victoria GC, Al decided to make his passion his profession. In 1962, Alan joined the PGA of Canada and became an Assistant to Jack Reynolds at the Red Deer G&CC.

 In 1965, Bud Loftus took him on as an Assistant at the Calgary G&CC, where his career flourished. He remained as an Assistant to Loftus for ten years, and upon Bud’s retirement in 1975, Ewen assumed the Head Professional role, a post he held until his retirement in 1994, some thirty years later.

Alan’s commitment to the profession and to the Association have been evident throughout his career. He had an outstanding service record as Head Professional at the Calgary G&CC, highlighted with the Members at the club providing him with a lifetime membership. Alan also served on the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors for five years, was President of the Board for two years, served on the National Board of Directors for eight years and was President of the PGA of Canada for two years.

As an accomplished player, Alan won the Alberta Assistants’ Championship in 1971, and finished in the top ten three times at the Western Assistant Professional Championship between 1965 and 1968. In 1993, he became a Life Member of the PGA of Canada and in 2008, he was a recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award in the Association Builder category.

Alan always seemed to take the time to discuss the game with anyone and had a number of close relationships at the Calgary G&CC. He played a great part in building the club and will be greatly missed.

More information will be provided once confirmed.

Association News

The PGA of Alberta is happy to announce Zak Lucas as the newest member to the Zone staff in the position of Education & Tournament Coordinator. Zak’s role will include coordinating the Education Program from the Spring Seminar to all PD Series’ as well as being present at the majority of PGA of Alberta tournaments next season. Zak graduated from the PGM Program at Humber College. He has been around the game since an early age, and his passion for the sport has kept him working in the industry for over a decade. Zak can now be reached by email at zak.lucas@pgaofalberta.com.

Click here to view entire staff listing.

Association News

The newest issue of the PGA of Alberta Digital Magazine... the "Golf Report" is now live! Content in this issue includes a recap of the PGA of Alberta Awards Banquet, update on the new PGA of Canada Training Program, the new Fort McMurray GC Clubhouse, and more!

Click here to view the newest issue now.

Association News

Born on June 11, 1956 in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Paul Lowe joined the PGA of Canada in 1978 starting his career in golf at the Bridgewater G&CC in Fort Erie, Ontario where he worked for seven seasons. Once achieving his Class ‘A’ status, Paul moved to Henderson Lake Golf Club under the guidance of Jim McLaughlin before accepting his first Head Professional position at the Hillcrest Sports Centre in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan in 1986. A number of moves across Western Canada within a year and a half brought him back to Henderson Lake to accept the Head Professional position where he remained for 28 years. It wasn’t long after this move that he began to stand out as a leader in the golf industry. Considered by his peers as a mentor in junior golf, retail, customer service, teaching and playing, Mr. Lowe has inspired many golf professionals to be the best version of themselves both on and off the course. He can be quoted by many saying, “treat the person off the street with the same quality you would give your best member”.

Under the mentorship of Jim McLaughlin, Paul learned the ‘Junior-Junior Program’ from the son of Jack McLaughlin, the very person that introduced it to the PGA of Canada and learned the importance of strong Junior Programs. With this guidance combined with his passion and commitment to junior development made his program one of the best in Southern Alberta at the time. This program that was held out of Henderson Lake provided an introduction to the game and stimulated the interest of golf to juniors in Lethbridge and the surrounding area. As soon a junior became a member at the Henderson Lake, they were automatically enrolled in this program with no extra charge for instruction. With two other Golf Professionals, Paul went on to implement a Junior Super League which included ten clubs in the Southern Alberta area including Medicine Hat, Lethbridge, Calgary and High River. Above the instruction that he provided, Paul made it his goal to start the Henderson Lake GC Junior Scholarship Program. To date, approximately $90,000 has been raised for the Scholarship Program. His innovative junior development ideas were recognized by the PGA of Alberta in 1998 & 2006 when he won Junior Leader of the Year. He was nominated three more times in this category and once for Club Professional of the Year in 2014.

Mike Mezei, writer for SCOREGolf and past PGA Tour Canada winner, and Dunc Mills, Executive Director of the McLennan Ross Junior Golf Tour both commended Paul for outstanding dedication to both Henderson Lake and junior golf in Canada in their 2014 articles. 

In a further effort to develop Golf Professionals in Alberta, Paul, Brian Huculak, the current Executive Professional at the Lethbridge CC and the Director of Lethbridge College at the time introduced the PGA Golf Management Program to the College. The three were instrumental in building the noteworthy program which many PGA of Canada golf professionals were enrolled in.

Receiving the Life Professional designation in 2015, Paul remains to be active in the Association and continues to be a role model to many members. He takes great care of the ones in whom he sees great potential in and always inspires them to grow into Golf Professionals of their own. The Association is pleased to recognize Paul as the third Member to receive the PGA of Alberta Lifetime Achievement Award in the Leadership Category.

See past Lifetime Achievement Award recipients by clicking here.

Association News

The PGA of Alberta along with Callaway Golf is pleased to present eight bursaries of $1,000 each to the following deserving Candidates for Membership and Assistants’: Braden Chown (Desert Blume GC), Bryce Halverson (The Winston GC), Carson Taylor (Cottonwood G&CC), Chad Feener (Leduc GC), John Deneer (Bearspaw CC), Jordan Fenwick (GOLFTEC Calgary), Nick Becker (Silver Springs G&CC) and Shannon Raina (Sirocco GC). Congratulations and thank you to everyone who applied.

Read More

Association News

The PGA of Alberta announced the winners of the annual awards on Wednesday, October 17th at the Edmonton Expo Centre.  Individuals were recognised for their achievements throughout the season and their career, as well as for their contributions to the Association and the Game of Golf. Categories that were recognised include Club Professional, Teacher, Lifetime Achievement, and the Association`s inaugural Executive Professional of the Year. Congratulations to all of the winners! Click read more to view this year’s winners.

Read More ›

Association News

Due to the recent cancellation of the Pro-Assistant, Callaway Golf will now sponsor the PGA of Alberta Bursary Program for the 2018 season. With the new sponsorship from Callaway Golf, we are now offering EIGHT bursaries total of $1,000 each!! A minimum of four of the bursaries will be reserved for seasonal CFM’s working 9-months or less for their employer.

With the recent change to the Bursary Program, the DEADLINE has been extended to Friday, October 5^th at 12pm! If you have not applied already, this is a perfect opportunity to submit your application which can be done online for a chance to win one of the eight bursaries worth $1,000 to help further develop yourself as a Golf Professional.

Thank you to Callaway Golf for sponsoring the 2018 Bursaries!

APPLY NOW BY CLICKING HERE

Association News

The PGA of Alberta is excited to announce the 2018 Awards Finalists! Winners will be announced at the PGA of Alberta Awards Banquet on Wednesday, October 17th at the Edmonton Expo Centre. All members and partners of the PGA of Alberta are encouraged to join us for this evening of recognition and celebration. The Cocktail Party will start at 5:00pm and the Awards Banquet will start at approximately 5:30pm. Good luck to all of the 2018 Finalists!

Click here to see this year’s finalists.

Association News

Every other year the PGA of Alberta sends a Compensation Survey to the membership to complete. The survey is a very important tool for our Association as it allows us to give our membership the most current earning potential in each area of the province based on their position.  The more surveys that are filled out, the more accurate both the averages and high/low points will be. Please take 5-10 minutes to fill out the survey. Once completed, you will be sent a copy of the results.

Every Member will receive 5 PD points for completing the survey!

Click here to complete the survey.

Association News

The latest issue of the PGA of Alberta Digital Magazine... the "Golf Report" is now live. Content in this issue includes stories on the Rebuild at Kananaskis Country GC; Recap on PGA of Alberta Tournaments; Stampede Breakfast at the Golf Canada Calgary Centre, and more!

Click here to view the newest issue now.

Association News

The first ever Stampede Breakfast event hosted at the Golf Canada Calgary Centre was a day filled with fun for every person that attended. In partnership with Alberta Golf and the Golf Canada Calgary Centre, the event saw over 400 people throughout the morning taking part in free golf tips, junior activities, and of course a complimentary pancake breakfast. Thank you to everyone who supported the inaugural event including our dedicated Professionals Gary Slatter (PGA of Alberta Member), Joel Douglas (Cottonwood G&CC), Matt Seifert (Earl Grey GC) and Sean Murray (Bearspaw CC) for volunteering their time to grow the game to the youth.

For more information on the PGA on Wheels program, please click here.

Association News

After a two-day grind at Wolf Creek GR, two players successfully passed their Playing Ability Test. Congratulations to Marcus Meneghetti of Silver Springs G&CC (155) & Shane Garbutt of Glendale G&CC (156), on being the newest Member of the PGA of Canada and achieving their CFM Target Score.

Click here for full PAT results.

Association News

The PGA of Alberta is proud to present four Junior Scholarships of $1,000 each. Two of these scholarships will be awarded to children of PGA of Alberta Members (no golf experience needed) and the other two will be awarded to selected Alberta Juniors, 25 years or younger, who meet the specific criteria.

Deadline is Friday, July 13th. 

Read More ›

Association News

For the second year in a row, the PGA on Wheels attended the Sport Calgary All Sport One Day event in Calgary. In partnership with Alberta Golf and the City of Calgary, the PGA on Wheels area saw over 120 kids aged six all the way to seventeen who were introduced to the game and took part in various junior golf activities. Big thank you goes to our Professionals Dustin Risdon (NGA @ McCall Lake), Edmund Dzieciuch (Apply Creek GC), Gary Slatter (PGA of Alberta Member), Sean Murray (Bearspaw CC), Sean Thompson (Cottonwood G&CC) & Terry Carter (NGA @ McCall Lake) for volunteering their time to support the PGA on Wheels program.

The final PGA on Wheels event for the summer will be the Stampede Breakfast taking place July 8^th at the Golf Canada Calgary Centre.

Click here for more information.

Association News

After a two day battle at Lynx Ridge GC, one player successfully passed their Playing Ability Test. Congratulations to Andrew Moore  of Silver Springs G&CC on being the newest Member of the PGA of Canada after shooting a two-day score of 159 to achieve the CFM Target Score.

Click here for full P.A.T. results.

Association News

Nearly five years after the devastating floods, the restoration and renovation efforts at Inglewood G&CC are complete. With two remodelled holes re-opening prior to the Victoria Day long weekend, there’s no longer a need for temporary greens at the popular semi-private setup. “Now, we have the full golf course back and better than it was before the flood,” said Jason Stanier, PGA of Alberta Executive Professional at Inglewood. “We’re excited about that”. Click Read More below to read the full the article from the Calgary Sun.

Read More

Association News

Individuals interested in becoming a Golf Professional must register as an Applicant with online the PGA of Canada by JUNE 1, 2018.

Once the applicant’s profile has been approved, they can register for the 3 remaining Playing Ability Tests (P.A.T) in Alberta.  After becoming a PGA of Canada applicant, please create a profile on the PGA of Alberta website before June 1st.

Take note of the 2018 PAT Schedule and find out more information by Clicking Here to be directed to the ’Become a Member’ section of the website. Please pass this information on to anyone interested in becoming a member of the PGA of Alberta at your facility!

For more information, please contact Britney Andersen by email or call the office at 403-256-8894.

Association News

The latest issue of the PGA of Alberta Digital Magazine... the "Golf Report" is now live. Content in this issue includes stories on the PGA of Alberta’s brand-new website, Hole-In-One Insurance Program, 10 ways to practice more effectively by former Teacher of the Year Garett Jenkinson, and more!

Click here to view the newest issue now.

Association News

The PGA of Alberta website has now added a search bar to make it easier to navigate. You are now able to search any area of the website such as Find a Pro or Facility, Tournaments, PGA on Wheels, etc. Find the search bar now on the top left corner of the website!

Association News

After two days of perfect weather, one person successfully passed their Playing Ability Test at Alberta Springs GR. Congratulations to Michael Nutt of Jasper Park Lodge GC on being the newest Member of the PGA of Canada after shooting a two-day score of 155 to achieve the Class A Target Score.

Click here for full P.A.T. results.

Association News

The first PGA on Wheels event of the season saw the PGA of Alberta and Alberta Golf attend the annual Go Girl event at the Collicutt Centre in Red Deer to help grow the game to girls in the fifth grade. Over 110 girls were introduced to the sport and received golf instructions from the Professionals and Coaches that attended. Big thanks goes to our Professionals Marsha Rogers (The Derrick G&WC), Michelle Van Slyke (Belvedere G&CC), Shannon Raina (Sirocco GC) and Tiffany Gordon (Heritage Pointe Golf Academy) for taking time out of their day to help grow the game to the youth. Thank you as well to Alberta Golf and all other volunteers for the continued support of the program. Click Read More below to learn more about the PGA on Wheels.

Read More

Association News

Once again, the PGA of Alberta is working in conjunction with Foster Park Insurance Brokers to provide all Members and Non-Members with the opportunity to purchase Hole-In-One Insurance for your corporate, charity, and club events for the 2018 golf season! 

• Benefits of purchasing HIO Insurance through PGA of Alberta
  • Supporting the Association
  • Competitive industry rates
  • Easy to purchase online
  • Purchase for one event or for an entire season worth of events at once!

Coverage can be purchased by visiting www.pgaofalberta.com and logging in to your member profile. Select your account (your name) in the top right-hand corner followed by “My Hole-In-One”.  Step-by-step instructions will guide you through the purchasing process. Once completed, a confirmation is submitted to the PGA of Alberta Office and your request is then submitted on your behalf to Foster Park Insurance that day (any Hole-In-One requests made on weekends will be submitted first thing Monday morning). It’s as easy as that!

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Association News

The PGA of Alberta is pleased to announce the launch of 2018 Hole-In-One program. Foster Park Brokers Inc. (www.fpb.ca) is excited to partner again with the PGA of Alberta to provide a Hole-In-One Insurance Program for the Members. This program provides Members with preferred pricing on prize limits ranging from $500 to $50,000. FPB is also able to accommodate prize limits up to $1,000,000 outside of the program.

Click here for more information.

Association News

The first PGA on Wheels event of 2015 will be taking place at the RiverBend GC tomorrow, Saturday, May 9th from 9:00am – 1:00pm. We are still looking for PGA of Alberta Members to volunteer and help with the various golf activities. If you are able to help please contact the office. There will be three other PGA on Wheels events throughout the summer that we are also looking for help with. Click here to view all the dates and locations.

Association News

The top nominees for Club Professional, Assistant Professional, Teacher, Junior Leader, Merchandiser and Sales Representative of the Year have been announced. The winners will be announced at the Awards Banquet on October 23rd at the Edmonton Expo Centre. Click here for this year's finalists.

Association News

Congratulations to Erin Martens (Windermere G&CC) and Kattereya Kennedy (Highwood G&CC) for being selected as this year's recipients of the 2013 PGA of Alberta Junior Scholarships. Each girl will receive a $1,500 scholarship towards their 2013 academics.

Association News

Sabrine Garrison (Country Hills GC) followed up her 66 yesterday with a 73 today at Wolf Creek GR to win the girls division at the 2013 Junior Masters. Matt Codd (Red Deer G&CC) shot a round two score of 67 and to come from behind to win the 2013 Boys division. Click here to view the full results.

Association News

Patrick Murphy (Glencoe G&CC) shot a 4-under 67 and Sabrine Garrison (Country Hills GC) shot a 5-under 66 at the Wolf Creek GR to lead the 2013 PGA of Alberta Sundog Junior Masters. Click here to view the round one results and the round two tee times.

Association News

The 23rd annual PGA of Alberta Junior Masters will be taking place on Thursday, May 30 and Friday, May 31 at the Wolf Creek GR. The top 40 junior boys and top 18 junior girls in Alberta from the 2012 season will be competing in this invitational. Click here to view the draw.

Association News

The Edmonton and Calgary Golf Shows are fast approaching and we are in need of volunteers. Please contact the office if you are able to volunteer at the Shows. Edmonton Golf Show: March 9 & 10, 2013 - Calgary Golf Show: March 23 & 24, 2013

Read More ›

Association News

Click here to view the round one and two draws for the P.A.T. being hosted by Silver Springs G&CC on June 26 & 27th

Association News

At the PGA of Alberta Annual General Meeting held March 5, 2012, the Assistants' Board of Directors' held elections for two year terms resulting in five individuals being seated.

Association News

At the PGA of Alberta Annual General Meeting held March 5, 2012, Shawn Lavoie (Executive Professional, Calgary Elks Lodge GC) and Murray McCourt (Executive Professional, The Ranch G&CC) were elected to the Board of Directors. Brett Burgeson (Country Hills GC) and Josh Gardner (Canyon Meadows G&CC) were re-elected to the Board.

Association News

Brett Burgeson of the Country Hills GC took home Club Professional of the Year honours as the PGA of Alberta recognized its 2011 Award Winners Wednesday night as part of the PGA of Alberta Buying Show. Other winners included Landon Hargreaves (Assistant Professional of the Year), Paul Horton (Teacher of the Year), Adam Werbicki (Junior Leader of the Year) and Pine Hills GC and Pinebrook G&CC (Merchandiser of the Year - Public and Private). To see all the winners, click Read More for details.

Read More ›

Association News

The PGA of Alberta is pleased to recognize Jordan Moe and Andrew Ritchot as the recipients of this year's PGA of Alberta Scholarship Awards.

Association News

Final results are available from this week's Playing Ability Test at the Cardiff GC. In total, 8 players met the standard of acceptance. Congratulations to the newest Candidates for Membership: Jaron Higgens of the Whitecourt G&CC, Dan McIntosh of the Highwood G&CC, Walt McIlhone of the Heatherglen GC, Stuart Campbell and Leigh Thomas of the Sandpiper GC, Cory Seaman of the Turner Valley GC, Mark Milne of the Carnmoney G&CC and James Chapman of the Sherwood G&CC.

Association News

First round results for this week's Playing Ability Test at the Cardiff GC are available. Click Read More for today's scores.

Association News

Rob MacGregor, Director of Golf at the Miskanaw GC in Fort McMurray has put a few events on the schedule in support of the Gilwood GC in Slave Lake. Their Men's Night ran a Slave Lake - Red Cross Fundraiser last week and raised over $3,600 through donations from 60 guys and coming up the week of July 11th they will be doing a Pink Ribbon Fundraiser (All will be wearing pink hats...photos to come)...

Read More ›

Association News

First-day leaders Jennifer Ha of the Glencoe G&CC and Tyler Saunders of the Glendale G&CC captured the Girls and Boys titles respectively today at the Sundog Junior Masters held on the Links Course at Wolf Creek GR. Ha added a 2-over par 73 to her first round 71 today for a six-shot victory over Mieke Heyns of the Lethbridge CC, while Saunders added an even-par 71 to a round one 68 for a five-shot win over Aaron Crawford of the Springbank Links GC.

Association News

Congratulations to Garrett Goodbrand of the Country Hills GC, Morris Groves of the Strathmore GC, Patrick O'Doherty of the Earl Grey GC, Ryan Tofani of the River Spirit GC, John Vautour of the Redwood Meadows GC and Shannon Werbicki of the Windermere G&CC, who all passed their Playing Ability Test today at Elbow Springs GC.

Association News

The PGA of Alberta Building Fundraising Initiative is off to a flying start

Association News

Click here to view the draw for the first PAT event of the season being hosted by Elbow Springs on May 17 &18.

Association News

"It’s also about being part of the community. Community is part of who we are as an association." says Tiffany Gordon, CPGA Executive Professional at the Cottonwood G&CC

Read More ›

Association News

Matt Freeman (Canyon Meadows), Landon Hargreaves (Edmonton CC) and Nathan Toornstra (Edmonton Petroleum Club) were nominated to PGA of Alberta Assistants' Board.

Association News

Alan Carter (Jasper Park Lodge) was named the PGA of Alberta's President while Country Hills' Head Professional Brett Burgeson was named Vice President at the Association's AGM.

Association News

Alan Carter, Executive Professional at Jasper Park Lodge Golf Club in Alberta is the recipient of the Canadian PGA Club Professional of the Year award. “I owe this award to many, however, my wife and best-friend Susan and my son Noah are my biggest supporters. They bring understanding and balance to my life and have helped me to become a better leader.”

Association News

Tom Greiner and his team at The Calgary Golf and Country Club take home the award for 2010 Canadian PGA Merchandiser of the Year. " The award means that the tremendous effort our staff provides to our members and guests is being recognized. Every member of the Golf Shop team should be proud of receiving this award,” said Greiner.

Association News

Congratulations to Madison Pedersen (Country Hills GC) and Melissa Saken (Edson GC) on winning the 2010 Junior Scholarship Awards.

Association News

Results have been posted for the first round of the Playing Ability Test at Lakeside GC in Chestermere. Tee Times for Day 2 begin at 7:00am.

Association News

The Playing Ability Test scheduled for the Lakeside GC on July 12th and 13th has been postponed. The event will now take place Tuesday and Wednesday, July 20th and 21st. Tee Times will begin at 12pm on Tuesday and 7am on Wednesday. Please confirm your attendance with Kelsey Loftus at the PGA of Alberta office.

Association News

A reminder to those wishing to attempt a Playing Ability Test in 2010 that the deadline to register as an Applicant with the CPGA is June 1st, 2010. The deadline for entry into the formal Playing Ability Test at Alberta Springs is Monday, May 17th.

Association News

The PGA of Alberta has a post-secondary scholarship program for junior golfers. Scholarships are awarded to those junior boys and girls who meet or exceed the scholarship criteria. Apply today.

Association News

The PGA of Alberta recently held elections to its Board of Directors at the Association's Annual General Meeting. Alan Carter, Dean Ingalls, Gregg Schubert & Gary Ward were all re-elected for 3 year terms.

Association News

Kyle Brandt, Mark Hutchings, Jeff MacGregor, Steve Richardson and Stuart Williamson were elected to the Assistants' Board during the Association's Annual General Meeting. Stuart Williamson from Priddis Greens takes over as Assistants' President.

Association News

Riley Miller of Brooks GC and Travis Kemp of Lethbridge GC are the two 2009 Junior Scholarship winners sponsored by the PGA of Alberta. Congratulations to you both!

Association News

The draw has been posted for the 2009 Spring Playing Ability Test

Association News

The PGA of Alberta Membership has elected Tiffany Gordon as Association President. Kevin Davison, Josh Gardner and Gary Ward have joined the Board of Directors.