Early Bird Registration is now open until February 17th
It will be back in person at The Derrick G&WC for the first time since 2020. There will be a limited capacity of 140 participants so make sure to register yourself and employees before the spots are filled.
The first speaker announcement includes;
Jennifer Morton (Association of Golf Merchandisers) - She is the Director of Marketing and Sales for the Association of Golf Merchandisers, a business strategist, and international speaker who has more than 30 years of marketing and golf retail experience. Her presentation will be on "How to elevate your sales and social media strategies: boost engagement and maximize success"
There is also an exciting, new opportunity for every member of the association to apply to be a presenter at this years Seminar. If there is an area of your job that you excel in and feel the membership would benefit from hearing, prepare a 5-10 minute video and send it to [email protected] by February 10th. The top 3-4 ideas chosen by the Education Committee will be asked to present at this years seminar.
Andy Hilts is a recognized expert in the business of golf instruction and a leader in the growing field of revenue optimization for golf academies. Through his consultancy, Hilts Golf, he trains and advises prominent instructors on business development and profit enhancement, via seminars and workshops that top coaches have praised for their technical detail and motivational force. From 2005 to 2013 Hilts oversaw teacher training for GOLFTEC, guiding and mentoring some 2,000 GOLFTEC coaches worldwide. Prior to that he was a full-time golf coach, giving 12,000-plus lessons. Hilts achieved the status of PGA Master Professional in Instruction just six years after his 1999 graduation from the Professional Golf Management program at Mississippi State University.
Andy was honored in 2005 as the Colorado PGA Teacher of the Year. In both 2008 and 2015 he received the Colorado PGA Horton Smith Award. From 2009-2013 Hilts was listed by Golf Digest as one “America’s Best Young Teachers,” ranking No. 3 on the magazine’s list of Best Teachers in Colorado. In 2012 the Golf Range Association of America named him one of the “Top 50 Growth of the Game Teachers.” Hilts has been a member of the Colorado PGA Education Committee since 2014. He has also served on the Instruction Committee of the PGA of America. From 2017 through 2019, Hilts handled day-to-day operations for Proponent Group, a GOLF Channel-owned membership organization comprising 700 of the industry’s top coaches.
Hotel Reservations
The Sawridge Inn & Conference Centre has a room block available for all participants of this years Spring Seminar.
To book your reservation, call the Sawridge (780)438-1222 and use code "PGA"
Partner News
PGA of Alberta and KAILANI Form New Partnership
The Association is excited to announce a new partnership with Canadian company KAILANI for the next three years! KAILANI will be the new Title Sponsor of the annual Pro-Pro Scramble classic which features two PGA of Alberta members participating in an 18-hole team scramble format.
“KAILANI is pleased to announce our partnership with the PGA of Alberta. With a vision to create a brand that creates exceptional product with tremendous value for our retail and corporate partners and the end use consumer,” said Sean Alexander, President & CEO for KAILANI.
A member-favourite event on the schedule, the Pro-Pro Scramble has seen an average field size of 110 players (55 teams) in the last three seasons. The host venue and date of the tournament will be released with the launch of the 2023 tournament schedule.
“We feel that this strategic partnership with the PGA of Alberta will be welcomed in an ever-changing industry that is looking for more products offerings that compliment the pro shops of their members and increases their overall revenues and opportunities. Our partnership with PGA of Alberta supercharges our commitment to increasing the KAILANI Brand recognition within the Golf Industry and beyond.”
About KAILANI… KAILANI is a proud Canadian Owned organization servicing the Sporting Goods and Premium Insulated Cooler Products and Drinkware. With a talented design team and countless ideas, KAILANI delivers exceptional products at exceptional value. With a line of inflatable SUP Boards and Epoxy Stand Up Paddle Boards, to industry leading Hard and Soft Coolers and our insulated drinkware, you can count on KAILANI to deliver quality and performance throughout their full line of branded products, proudly designed in Canada.
KAILANI’s vision is to become Canada’s preferred Outdoor Lifestyle Brand Experience, one that matches their unique landscape, with rugged, well built products that stand the test of time. Click here to view KAILANI’s corporate catalogue.
Learn more about their products by visiting ca.kailanisports.com or contact their Representative below.
Deadline to apply for Tournament Committee is January 31st
The deadline to apply to join the Tournament Committee is fast approaching and is set for the end of the day tomorrow, January 31st at 11:59 PM. If you are interested or passionate about our Tournament Program, the Committee is always looking for new Members with fresh, new and innovative ideas to help improve and grow the Program.
Please send your application documents and letter of intent (which states the applicants motivations for joining the Committee and any relevant experiences they feel make them a strong candidate for joining) to either of theCo-Chairs (Josh Fleming,Scott Anderson)of the PGA of AlbertaTournament Committee or Aaron Mckay ([email protected]).
The new Committee roster will be announced by February 9th at the latest.
The Tournament 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 Tournament Program. The Tournament Committee oversees/is responsible for the following Tournament related matters.
1. Be responsible for all tournament operations, including Order of Merit and other player selection instruments 2. Establish all tournament rules, regulations and policies 3. Be responsible for all tournaments set-up standards (yardage, pin locations, etc.) 4. Be responsible for staffing (Marshals, Referees, Starting, Scoring, etc.) 5. Review tournament eligibility criteria on an annual basis and make any recommendations for revisions 6. Proactively obtain input from fellow members on their level of satisfaction with and provide suggestions for improvement 7. Liaise with other committees as required on operations and activities that may overlap. 8. Undertake other activities as may be assigned by the Board of Directors from time to time 9. Review the Terms of Reference Committee document on an annual basis and make any recommendations for change
The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the members of the Professional Golfers’ Association of Alberta will be held in-person on Monday, March 6th 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
COBRA PUMA GOLF and PGA of Alberta Expand Partnership
The PGA of Alberta is thrilled to announce an expanded partnership with COBRA PUMA GOLF for the 2023 and 2024 seasons. In addition to renewing as Title Sponsor of the PGA of Alberta Assistants’ Championship and Alberta National Teams, COBRA PUMA GOLF will also become Co-Title Sponsor of the PGA of Alberta Championship. The host venues and dates of both championships will be shared with the upcoming release of the 2023 tournament schedule.
“The PGA and COBRA PUMA GOLF have been great partners over the past decade so it was an easy decision to extend our investment with the Association,” said Dwayne Boecker, Head of Golf for COBRA PUMA GOLF - Canada. “Adding a marquee event such as the PGA of Alberta Championship allows us to continue engaging PGA members across the province and further demonstrate our commitment to the zone.”
The PGA of Alberta Championship has been around since 1976 and is the Association’s flagship event. The Championship is the largest tournament that the PGA of Alberta organizes with the field consisting of approximately 100 players competing in a stroke play format.
The Assistants’ Championship allows Assistant Professionals from across Alberta the chance to compete against their peers in a two-day championship. This event is executed at the same level of competition as the PGA of Alberta Championship with the field consisting of approximately 70 players. COBRA PUMA GOLF has been the Title Sponsor of this championship since 2012.
The purses of both events will combine for more than $40,000 for competitors.
"On behalf of the PGA of Alberta and our membership, we are very excited to continue our longstanding relationship with COBRA PUMA GOLF ," said Robert Rousselle, Executive Director of the PGA of Alberta. "Over the years, the team at COBRA PUMA GOLF have supported our Assistants’ Championship and provided uniforms for Team Alberta members at the PGA of Canada National Championships. Premier events like our Assistants’ & PGA of Alberta Championships cannot proceed without excellent partners like COBRA PUMA GOLF and we thank them for their commitment as a Premier Partner." About COBRA PUMA GOLF… COBRA PUMA GOLF is a corporate division of PUMA, one of the world’s leading sports brands, designing, developing, selling and marketing footwear, apparel and accessories. COBRA PUMA GOLF is an inclusive company, promoting game enjoyment for golfers of all abilities, attitudes and styles. The brands full-range portfolio includes COBRA Golf’s high-performance drivers, fairways, hybrids, wedges, putters and irons, as well as PUMA Golf’s sport lifestyle inspired footwear, apparel and accessories. Fusing performance and style, COBRA PUMA GOLF brings a focus on innovation, technology, compelling design and superior performance with an edge to the global golf marketplace. For more information, visit cobragolf.ca and ca.pumagolf.com.
For more information on COBRA PUMA GOLF, please contact one of their Representatives below.
Rick Lea Alberta Territory & Key Account Manager 403-680-7224 [email protected]
1 Week Left to Submit Nomination for the Board or Assistants’ Board in 2023
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.
Tournament Committee - Dissolution & Application Process Now Open
After much thought and consideration, the Co-Chairs of the PGA of Alberta Tournament Committee have decided to formally Dissolve the Committee and are excited to announce the commencement of the Application Process to join the new 2023 Committee. Please reach out to either Co-Chair (Josh Fleming & Scott Anderson) or Aaron Mckay ([email protected]) 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 this process officially opens today, and will run until end of day, 11:59 PM on Tuesday, January 31st. All interested Members are invited to submit an application form 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 February 9th at the latest.
The Tournament 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 Tournament Program.
The Tournament Committee oversees/is responsible for the following Tournament related matters.
1. Be responsible for all tournament operations, including Order of Merit and other player selection instruments 2. Establish all tournament rules, regulations and policies 3. Be responsible for all tournaments set-up standards (yardage, pin locations, etc.) 4. Be responsible for staffing (Marshals, Referees, Starting, Scoring, etc.) 5. Review tournament eligibility criteria on an annual basis and make any recommendations for revisions 6. Proactively obtain input from fellow members on their level of satisfaction with and provide suggestions for improvement 7. Liaise with other committees as required on operations and activities that may overlap. 8. Undertake other activities as may be assigned by the Board of Directors from time to time 9. Review the Terms of Reference Committee document on an annual basis and make any recommendations for change
If you haven’t registered for webinar #1, it is this Friday, January 13th, from 10:00am-11:15am. The topic will be Planning and Implementing Successful Leagues and Events at Your Facility.
*Reminder this is free to all members and each participant will receive 2 Top 100 Points/ Webinar*
Top 100 News
PGA of Alberta Announces Top 100 Professionals of 2022
The PGA of Alberta is proud to officially announce the Top 100 PGA of Alberta Golf Professionals for 2022 as determined by the rankings in the Top 100 Programpresented by Foresight Sports Canada & TaylorMade Golf Canada! The list below is the top 100 point earners for 2022 program year. These members will receive a custom Top 100 logo recognizing their accomplishment.
The Top 100 Program is based on pre-determined measurable criteria designed to recognize members who dedicate their time and demonstrate proven abilities in advancing the golf industry for the benefit of all Golf Professionals. The following areas where points are awarded are Education, Association initiatives, Tournaments and Volunteerism. Congratulations to the following Professionals (click on a name to learn more):
After taking over the lead late in the program year, Sam secured the trophy after accumulating 91 points total to win by 4! Sam is no stranger to being involved in the Association as he was the winner of the former Professional Development Program in 2018, the final year of the program before turning into the Top 100 Program.
As we’ve seen the last several years in the Top 100 Program, it was an exciting race to the very end with two other members - Greg Johnson (Inglewood G&CC) and Bryce Halverson (Carnmoney GC), finishing within 7 points of Sam to claim second and third place.
Cash Prizes The Association is proud to award 20 cash prizes to the top point earners in the program. Members needed to accumulate 60 points or more to earn a cheque. Click Here to see the 2022 cash prize recipients.
Cash Bonuses In addition to the 20 cash prizes, the Association also awarded 8 cash bonuses of $100 each to the top point finisher(s) in four categories (number of cash bonuses dependent on total number of members in each category). Click Here to see the cash bonus recipients.
New for 2023 - Program Rotation Year The Association will now use a calendar year moving forward for the program rather than the previous October to September of the following year model. For 2023, the program year will begin October 1, 2022 and go until December 31, 2023 to cover the gap of the rotation change. After that year is finish, the Top 100 Program will run from a January 1 to December 31 timeline.
Register Today for the Calgary & Edmonton Golf Shows
The PGA of Alberta is excited to get the Calgary & Edmonton Golf Shows back up and running after being cancelled the last three years. The Golf Shows provide the perfect opportunity to promote your facility/business to thousands of passionate golfers before the start of the 2023 golf season!
Calgary Golf Show | March 18 & 19, 2023 at the BMO Centre
Why Exhibit at the Shows? #1 - Promote your business to over 7,000 passionate golfers throughout the province. The Calgary Show sees approx. 4,000 - 4,500 attendees and the Edmonton Show sees approx. 2,500 - 3,000 attendees.
#2 - Your business has the opportunity to sell green fees (bundle packs), products, memberships, lesson packages, league play, simulator leagues, and whatever else your facility/company has to offer to the thousands of golfers in attendance.
#3 - Take advantage of the upswing of new golfers the industry has experienced over the last three years. This is a perfect opportunity to expose your brand to new demographics in a fun environment.
#4 - Support the Association and Industry - With the cancellation of the Golf Shows over the last three years, the 2023 Shows will give the PGA of Alberta and Exhibitors the chance to give back to Albertans that have supported golf facilities and the industry during the pandemic.
#5 - Top 100 Points - New this year, all PGA of Alberta members at a facility that exhibits at either Golf Show will receive 5 Top 100 points for the program year! See standings HERE.
Questions If you have any questions, please contact Trevor Rioux at [email protected]. Click links above to Register (login required).
The Association is currently looking for volunteers to teach 15-minute complimentary lessons to attendees at both the Calgary (March 18/19 at the BMO Centre) and Edmonton (April 1/2 at the Expo Centre) Golf Shows. Please note below the time slots available for both days at the Shows.
Top 100 Points - All members that volunteer a minimum of 3 hours at either Golf Show will receive 5 Top 100 points to help increase their position in the standings (mandatory volunteer hours from the Clearance Centre not eligible for points).
If you are available to volunteer, please CLICK HERE to submit the volunteer form.
Saturday
Sunday
9am – 11am 11am – 1pm 1pm – 3pm 3pm – 5pm
10am – 12pm 12pm – 2pm 2pm – 4pm
PGA of Canada News
Wes Heffernan Wins his Second Mike Weir Male Player of the Year Award
Another dominant year included wins at the PGA Championship of Canada and the Cobra Puma Golf PGA of Alberta Assistants’ Championship. Heffernan also added runner up finishes at the Zone Championship and the PGA Assistants’ Championship of Canada.
His win at the PGA Championship was certainly the highlight. Just a few weeks after playing in the RBC Canadian Open, Heffernan looked right at home at Beacon Hall Golf Club, dominating throughout the week to claim the P.D. Ross Trophy.
This is Heffernan’s second time winning the Mike Weird Player of the Year Award, first winning in 2019 after claiming the PGA Assistants’ Championship of Canada at TPC Toronto.
Kim Valleau named PGA of Canada Class "A" Professional of the Year
Congratulations to Kim Valleau of The Winston GC for receiving the 2022 Stan Leonard Class “A” Professional of the Year honour! The Award is the highest honour the Association can bestow on a working Class “A” Professional at a golf course whose total contributions to the game best exemplify the PGA of Canada Class “A” Professional
PGA of Alberta Office Hours Update - Closed Dec. 19th - Jan. 2nd
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.
The Assistants Board is excited to present their first webinar of 2023 on;
"Planning and Implementing Successful Leagues and Events at Your Facility".
This will be the first of four 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.
Stay tuned for the panelist announcement
Date
Time
Location
Capacity
January 13th, 2023
10:00am-11:15am
Zoom Conference Call
Unlimited
*Reminder this is free to all members*
Association News
Run for the Board of Directors or Assistants’ Board in 2023
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.
REMINDER - SAVE DRAFT FEATURE You can save your forms online before submitting. Please follow the steps below:
You must be logged into your account to be able to save your draft
Save Draft button is located at the bottom of every form on the website
To find Saved Drafts, please go to "My Account" or "Manage Account" > My Saved Drafts
Click "Edit" beside the form you want to update
Submit when finished
Golf Show News
Two Days Left for Early Bird Pricing at Alberta Golf Shows
The Association is excited to get the Calgary & Edmonton Golf Shows back up and running after being cancelled the last three years. Please be advised that Early Bird Exhibitor pricing is available until Friday, December 16th for both Shows. Be sure to take advantage of the discounted rates and don’t miss out on being a part of the first Alberta Golf Shows in four years!
Why Exhibit at the Shows? #1 - Promote your facility/company to over 7,000 passionate golfers throughout the province. The Calgary Show sees approx. 4,000 - 4,500 attendees and the Edmonton Show sees approx. 2,500 - 3,000 attendees.
#2 - Your facility/company has the opportunity to sell green fees (bundle packs), products, memberships, lesson packages, league play, simulator leagues, and whatever else your facility/company has to offer to the thousands of golfers in attendance.
#3 - Take advantage of the upswing of new golfers the industry has experienced over the last three years. This is a perfect opportunity to expose your brand to new demographics in a fun environment.
#4 - Support the Association and Industry - With the cancellation of the Golf Shows over the last three years, the 2023 Shows will give the PGA of Alberta and Exhibitors the chance to give back to Albertans that have supported golf facilities and the industry during the pandemic.
#5 - Top 100 Points - New this year, all PGA of Alberta members at a facility that exhibits at either Golf Show will receive 5 Top 100 points for the new program year! See standings HERE.
Questions If you have any questions, please contact Trevor Rioux at [email protected]. Click links above to Register (login required).
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.
PGA of Canada News
Craig Gibson Wins PGA Head Professional Championship of Canada
When Sirocco Golf Club Head Professional Craig Gibson stood on the 16th tee on Thursday afternoon, he trailed by four strokes.
That left just three holes to make up those four strokes on his playing partner, Rob Tadey, who entered the day with a one-stroke lead at the PGA Head Professional Championship of Canada presented by Callaway Golf and supported by G&G Brands.
Oh yah; he also trailed Stephen Cox by four strokes; who was about to tee off on No. 18 at about the same time Gibson was hitting his tee shot on the par 3 16th at Verrado Golf Club just outside Phoenix, AZ.
Peeking at the leaderboard around this time, Gibson knew he needed something special to happen if he was going to stamp his name in PGA of Canada championship history.
The next half hour you almost had to see to believe:
2:34 PM: Gibson nails 30-foot birdie putt on 16 to move to -9, trialing Cox and Tadey by 3.
2:45 PM: Cox hits his second on the par-5 18th short left of the green into the desert, takes an unplayable lie and moves backwards on-line with the pin up a 30-foot, 45-degree grade hill to take a drop in (less dense) desert, ending up with a bogey to finish at -11, one back of Tadey.
2:47 PM: Gibson hits it to an inch on No. 17 to move to -10.
2:55 PM: With a one-stroke lead, Tadey hits his approach shot left, losing his ball in the desert, and makes a double bogey with his provisional to finish at -10.
3:05 PM: Gibson hits a tidy chip to kick-in length for birdie on 18 to finish at -11.
Gibson vs. Cox playoff.
Four playoff holes later, Gibson fought back tears on the 18th green after making his fourth birdie on the hole of the day.
The six-footer he made on his 22nd hole of the day wasn’t just for him – not this time – but also for his wife and baby daughter at home, 2,500 km away.
“I can’t wait to take a picture of Georgia [his daughter] and the trophy,” said Gibson, who celebrated Georgia’s first birthday alongside his wife Courtney just weeks before making the trek to Verrado Golf Club. “It’s special. I started to kiss my ball marker with her name on it, so this one, it is awesome.”
Gibson was stellar all week long, firing 66-68-71 to finish on top at the final PGA of Canada national championship of the season.
Congratulations to the following Professionals from Alberta for all finishing inside the top 25 at the Championship:
Craig Gibson Sits One Stroke Back of Lead at PGA Head Professional Championship of Canada
After two rounds of competition, Craig Gibson (Sirocco GC) sits only one stroke back of the lead at 10-under at the PGA Head Professional Championship of Canada. Craig is playing his best golf right now after firing back-to-back rounds of 66-68 at the Verrado Golf Club just outside of Phoenix, AZ. He shot a bogey-free round yesterday and will look to do the same today as he attempts to win his first PGA of Canada major. Craig tees off in the final group this morning at 10:50am.
Sitting inside the top 20 of the tournament from Alberta includes the following members:
Congratulations to Team Alberta for finishing in third place in the InterZone competition at the Championship. The team consisted of Stefan Cox, Kevin Black, Adam Bruce (GOLFTEC Sherwood Park), and Weston Gillett (Lacombe G&CC).
National Award Finalists Announced - Good Luck to Alberta Professionals
The PGA of Canada is thrilled to announce the finalists for its 2022 National Awards.
Each year, a National Selection Committee evaluates nominations from professionals across Canada. The winners will be revealed on social media over the next few weeks and will be celebrated during Canada Night at the PGA Show in Orlando on January 26, 2023.
Good luck to the following Alberta Professionals up for a National Award. To view all finalists, CLICK HERE.
Matt Johnson (Royal Mayfair GC) - Murray Tucker Club Professional of the Year
Brian Bassen (Strathmore GC) - Dick Munn Executive Professional of the Year
Scott Stiles (Earl Grey GC) - George Knudson Teacher of the Year
Kim Valleau (The Winston GC) - Stan Leonard Class “A” Professional of the Year
Samuel Kirkness(Inglewood G&CC) - Tex Noble Professional Development Award
Ryan Caines(Inglewood G&CC) - Moe Norman Apprentice Professional of the Year
Chad Feener (Leduc GC) - Jack McLaughlin Junior Leader of the Year
Adam Werbicki (The Derrick G&WC) - Ben Kern Coach of the Year
Evergreen GC (Head Professional – Josh Walker) - Pat Fletcher Retailer of the Year
Wes Heffernan (Dynamic Motion Golf Performance Centre) - Mike Weir Player of the Year
Riley Fleming(Lynx Ridge GC) - Mike Weir Player of the Year
Garrett Hadfield (Rundle Park GC) - Warren Crosbie Community Leader of the Year Award
Education News
Mark Your Calendars
The 2023 Spring Seminar has been scheduled for March 6th & 7th at the Derrick G&WC.
The Education Committee has been working hard to compile a list of speakers for this years seminar and will provide updates as they are available along with the opening of registration coming soon. This years event will also be back in person for the first time since 2020 so don’t miss the opportunity to network and learn from some of the best in the industry.
Top 100 Points - Every Member that attends the Spring Seminar will receive 5 Top 100 points per day (10 points total) for this program year.
Spring Seminar Sponsors...
PGA of Canada News
PGA of Canada Bursaries Available worth $500 Each
Each year, the PGA of Canada Foundation awards bursaries to assist, encourage and promote the attainment of professional development opportunities. With the 2022 year coming to an end, it is the perfect time to send in a bursary application for any professional development opportunities you may have done in the past year. You have the opportunity to be reimbursed, for up to $500.00!
For more detailed information, please see the application link below. The bursary application deadline is January 27th, 2023! If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Wayne MacPhee at [email protected].
Member Compensation Survey - Complete Today to View Results
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.
Golf Show News
Early Bird Registration Now Open for 2023 Calgary & Edmonton Golf Shows
EARLY BIRD Exhibitor registration is NOW OPEN for the 2023 Calgary & Edmonton Golf Shows in March and April! The Association is excited to get these Shows back up and running after being postponed the last three years.
Why Exhibit at the Shows? The Golf Shows are a great opportunity for you to promote your facility/company and programs to over 7,000 passionate golfers throughout the province. Exhibiting at the Shows allows your facility/company to sell green fees (bundle packs), products, memberships, league play, simulator leagues, lesson packages, etc., all while exposing your brand to new demographics in a fun environment. Your facility/company also has the chance to take advantage of the upswing of new golfers the industry has experienced over the last three years. The upcoming Shows are scheduled as follows:
Edmonton Golf Show April 1 & 2, 2023 | Edmonton Expo Centre (Hall A) CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Top 100 Points All PGA members at a facility that pays for a booth at either Golf Show will receive 5 Top 100 points for the new program year!
Early Bird Deadline The Early Bird registration deadline is DECEMBER 16thfor both Shows. Be sure to take advantage of these discounted rates and don’t miss out on being a part of the Alberta Golf Shows! If you have any questions about the Shows, please contact Trevor Rioux at [email protected]. Click links above to Register (login required).
Warren Crosbie Community Leader of the Year Award - Deadline to Nominate November 15
The Warren Crosbie Community Leader of the Year Award, introduced in 2020 and named after PGA of Canada Past President and Life Member Warren Crosbie, is presented annually to a member of the Association who has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and gone above and beyond to make a meaningful and lasting impact within their community.
Last year’s winner was Todd Keirstead, who is making a huge different in the lives of others with his ParaGolf Canada initiative, which has helped bring disabled golfers to the sport and back to the sport. More details on Todd’s work can be found here.
COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP AWARD GUIDELINES
Involved in the promotion and development of community and/or charitable initiatives to help others, going beyond their regular day to day duties;
Consistent and outstanding dedication to making their community a better place;
Recognized as someone of outstanding character.
The National Awards Committee will select a recipient based on these criteria. While achievements during the past year should be emphasized, a candidate’s entire experience and commitment to continuing their contributions will be strongly considered.
The more detailed your nomination, the better chance the candidate has of being chosen by the selection committee.
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.
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" formby 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).
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[email protected]at the PGA office for more information. Mentors are assigned based on several factors including geographical location to the Mentee.
Top 100 News
Samuel Kirkness Wins his First Top 100 Award
Congratulations to SamuelKirkness of Inglewood G&CC on winning his first Top 100 Award as determined by the rankings in the Top 100 Program presented by Foresight Sports Canada and TaylorMade Golf Canada! The Top 100 Program is based on pre-defined measurable criteria designed to recognize members who dedicate their time and demonstrate proven abilities in advancing the Association’s interests for the benefit of all Golf Professionals and industry.
After taking over the lead late in the program year, Sam secured the trophy after accumulating 91 points total to win by 4! Sam is no stranger to being involved in the Association as he was the winner of the former Professional Development Program in 2018, the final year of the program before turning into the now Top 100 Program.
As we’ve seen the last several years in the Top 100 Program, it was an exciting race to the very end with two other members - Greg Johnson (Inglewood G&CC) and Bryce Halverson (Carnmoney GC), finishing within 7 points of Sam to claim second and third place.
Cash Prizes... The PGA of Alberta is now awarding 20 cash prizes to the top 20 point earners for the 2022 program year. Members needed to accumulate 60 points or more to earn a cheque this year. Congratulations to the following recipients who will receive their prize money shortly:
Cash Bonuses In addition to the 20 cash prizes, the Association is giving away 8 cash bonuses of $100 each to the top point finisher(s) in the below member categories (number of cash bonuses dependent on total number of members in the categories). This added amount puts the total prize money at$9,000for the Top 100 Program (cash prizes + bonuses). Congratulations to the following:
Apprentice Professionals - Top 2
Stefan Anderson (Lakeside GC) - $100
Nic Longley (Silver Springs G&CC) - $100
Class A / Teaching Professionals - Top 3
Greg Johnson (Inglewood G&CC) - $100
Bryce Halverson (Carnmoney GC) - $100
Chad Feener (Leduc GC) - $100
Head / Head Teaching Professionals - Top 2
Samuel Kirkness (Inglewood G&CC) - $100
Josh Fleming (365 GOLF) - $100
Executive Professional - Top 1
Murray McCourt (The Ranch G&CC) - $100
Top 100 Professionals As part of this program, the PGA of Alberta acknowledges the Top 100 Professionals which are the top 100-point earners for the program year. The 2022 Top 100 Professionals will be officially announced shortly so stay tuned for more information!
New for 2023 - Program Rotation Year After review of the program, the Association will now use a calendar year moving forward for the program rather than the previous October to September of the following year model. For 2023, the program year will begin October 1, 2022 and go until December 31, 2023 to cover the gap of the rotation change. After that year is finish, the Top 100 Program will run from a January 1st to December 31st timeline.
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:
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