Sudarshan Yellamaraju, Anna Hung and Leah John named
2025 Emerging Professional of the Year Award recipients

OAKVILLE, Ont. – Golf Canada is proud to announce the names of 20 professional athletes that have been named to the 2026 men’s and women’s Team Canada squads.

Golf Canada’s National Team program aims to help more Canadian athletes achieve success on the world’s leading professional tours, including the PGA TOUR and the LPGA Tour. The Team Canada program supports a group of experienced amateurs on the pathway to playing professional golf along with a group of young professional golfers building their careers as touring pros.

The professional players will join the 34 amateur and junior players that were previously announced as part of the Team Canada program last December. With players choosing to turn professional at different points in the season, an athlete’s involvement in the Team Canada program including financial support continues during their transition from amateur to professional golf. 

2026 Team Canada Rosters:

Team Canada – Women

Team Canada – Men

“Golf Canada is proud to announce the professional athletes selected to the 2026 Team Canada Men’s and Women’s National Team Program. Many of these players achieved significant milestones and enjoyed strong seasons last year, and we look forward to supporting their continued development across all tours while providing them with the resources they need to excel in 2026,” said Paul Perrier, Chief Sport Officer, Golf Canada. “We also extend our sincere thanks to the generous donors of the Golf Canada Foundation and our corporate partners. Their ongoing support of player development is critical in equipping our athletes to train, compete, and pursue success at the highest levels. We are also grateful to the Selection Committee for their diligence and commitment to a rigorous, athlete-focused selection process.”

Team Canada Coaches…

As previously announced, the coaching staff for the men’s and women’s Team Canada squads will return in full for the 2026 season. Team Canada – Men will be led by head coach Derek Ingram (Winnipeg, Man.) and assistant coach Louis Melanson (Moncton, N.B.). The coaching staff will be supported by mental performance coach, Dr. Adrienne Leslie-Toogood (Winnipeg, Man.) along with strength and conditioning coach Greg Redman (Kelowna, B.C.). Team Canada – Women will be led by Stollery Family Women’s head coach Salimah Mussani (Vancouver, B.C.) along with associate coach Jennifer Greggain (Vancouver, B.C.), strength and conditioning coach Andrea Kosa (Calgary, Alta.) and mental performance coach Judy Goss (Toronto, Ont.).

Team Canada coaches work with athletes and their personal support teams to develop annual training plans and identify areas to impact athlete growth in all areas of their game. Athletes are also supported by an integrated sport science team that includes physical conditioning, mental performance, and mental health support. Players are brought together regularly for training camps with national team coaches and sport science staff.

Team Canada Athletes….

The women’s professional team sees seven returning players including 17-year-old Anna Huang of Vancouver, B.C. Huang turned professional in 2025 and went on to win twice on the Ladies European Tour (LET). Her first professional win came at the La Sella Open in Spain in September, she followed that up with a win at the Lacoste Ladies Open de France the next week. Huang added two top 10’s and six top 20’s over 19 tournaments and finished 11th in the Order of Merit on LET in her rookie season. Leah John of Vancouver, B.C. also found the winner’s circle last season, claiming the Four Winds Invitational in August for her first professional win. John added two top 10 finishes in 20 starts on the Epson Tour. In December, John finished in the top 25 at LPGA Final Qualifying to earn her LPGA Tour card for 2026. Five women will be competing on the Epson Tour this year including, Brooke Rivers of Brampton, Ont. Last season, Rivers earned five top 10’s including a third place finish at the Casella Golf Championship in July on the Epson Tour. Also returning are a pair of 2025 Epson Tour rookies including Monet Chun of Richmond Hill, Ont., who earned four top 20 finishes and made the cut in 16 of 19 tournaments played last season. Along with Chun is Mary Parsons of Delta, B.C. Last season, Parsons earned two top 25 finishes in 12 events on Epson. Savannah Grewal of Mississauga, Ont. returns to the Epson Tour after competing on the LPGA Tour last season. Grewal earned five top 50 finishes in 16 starts on the LPGA Tour. Brigitte Thibault of Rosemère, Que. will also be returning to Epson following three top 40 finishes last year. Yeji Kwon of Port Coquitlam, B.C. will be returning to the program for 2026. Last season, Kwon earned two top 40 finishes in 18 starts last year on Epson.

The men’s professional team sees 10 returning players from 2025 and two additional returnees from past years. Three players will compete on the Korn Ferry Tour (KFT) this season, including Myles Creighton of Digby, N.S., Stuart Macdonald of Vancouver, B.C. and Matthew Anderson of Mississauga, Ont. Last season, Creighton earned his first Korn Ferry Tour title at the Wichita Open in June. He added another top five, a top 10 and four top 25 finishes in 25 events on Tour. This season, Creighton has earned two top 25 finishes in five events on the KFT. Macdonald earned a runner-up finish at the Tulum Championship last May and added a top five, three top 10’s and five top 25 finishes on the KFT last season. Macdonald has two additional top 25 finishes this season in five events played. Anderson collected a third place finish, a top five, two top 10’s and three top 25’s last season on KFT; he also finished T47 at the 2025 RBC Canadian Open. Five players will compete on PGA TOUR Americas including Brendan MacDougall of Calgary, Alta., Hunter Thomson of Calgary, Alta., Noah Steele of Kingston, Ont., Étienne Papineau of St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Que. and returning member, Peyton Callens of Langton, Ont. Callens was last a junior team national team member in 2019. Also returning to the national team after two seasons is Henry Lee of Coquitlam, B.C. Lee spent the past two years competing on the Vancouver Golf Tour and won twice in 2025 while adding five runner-up finishes. Lee earned playing status for both the Korean Tour and Asian Tour for the 2026 season. Piercen Hunt of Calgary, Alta. and Brady McKinlay of Lacombe, Alta. and Johnny Travale of Hamilton, Ont. who competed on PGA TOUR Americas last season will return to the national team for 2026. Sudarshan Yellamaraju of Mississauga, Ont. and A.J. Ewart of Coquitlam, B.C. have both graduated from the Team Canada program, following their progression to the PGA TOUR this season.

For full Team Canada athlete and coach bios along with tournament results and additional information, please click here.

Team Canada is proudly supported by RBC, Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC), Titleist, FootJoy, Puma, Foresight, Golf Canada Foundation and Sport Canada.

EMERGING PROFESSIONAL PLAYERS OF THE YEAR AWARD

Golf Canada Foundation is proud to announce Sudarshan Yellamaraju as the male recipient of the Emerging Professional of the Year Award, presented by Andrew Cook. The female co-recipients are Anna Huang and Leah John. 

“We are thrilled to continue the Emerging Professional awards again this year, with three deserving players getting a head start on their 2026 season with a grant to offset the many costs associated with starting your professional career,” said Martin Barnard, Chief Executive Officer, Golf Canada Foundation. “Andrew Cook has been a long-time supporter of the Foundation and golf in Canada, and his generous support is meaningful and impactful for Team Canada players again this year.”

The Emerging Professional of the Year Award is funded by a generous donation from Andrew Cook, a proud Trustee of the Golf Canada Foundation and past President of Golf Canada. Each year, the top male and female professionals receive a $10,000 grant to support their next season. Past recipients include PGA TOUR member Taylor Pendrith, current and former Korn Ferry Tour members Matthew Anderson, Myles Creighton, Stuart Macdonald, Wil Bateman, Etienne Papineau and current and former LPGA Tour members Maude‑Aimée Leblanc, Savannah Grewal and Maddie Szeryk. 

Golf fans will continue to toast Canada’s National Opens with
Sleeman’s premium lineup of beers.

OAKVILLE, Ont. – Golf Canada and Sleeman Breweries are excited to announce a new multi-year partnership agreement that keeps this iconic Canadian beer as the Official Beer of Golf Canada, the RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open.

The renewed partnership deepens the connection between two strong Canadian brands committed to elevating the fan experience at Canada’s premier golf events. Fans can look forward to enjoying Sleeman’s premium portfolio of beers across both National Open Championships from refreshing pours on the course to new elevated hospitality experiences.

As part of the expanded agreement, Sleeman Breweries will become the presenting partner of the Sleeman Clubhouse (formerly the 1904 Club) at the RBC Canadian Open. The newly branded 20,000-square-foot venue nestled between the fifth and 13th fairways at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley will deliver one of the tournament’s most sought-after hospitality experiences. Fans can expect tiered viewing decks, upscale lounge spaces, gourmet food, private bars serving Sleeman’s signature lineup, and an electric atmosphere to take in world-class golf in style.

“Sleeman Breweries has been an exceptional partner of Golf Canada, and we are proud to extend and deepen our partnership with a brand that Canadians know and love,” said Mark Palmer, Chief Commercial Officer, Golf Canada. “Together, we will deliver an unforgettable fan-first experience at both of our National Open Championships.”

Founded in 1834 and proudly based in Guelph, Ontario, Sleeman Breweries is the third-largest brewer in Canada and is known for its legacy of craftsmanship. Sleeman’s portfolio of beers includes Sleeman Original Canadian Lager, Sleeman Clear 2.0 Light Lager, Sleeman Honey Brown Lager, and Sleeman Zero+ Lager, a premium non-alcoholic option that will also be featured as part of the renewed partnership.

“Sleeman has a long history of bringing Canadians together and few things unite us more than the game of golf and a shared appreciation of quality beer. That’s why, we are thrilled to be extending our partnership with Golf Canada, allowing us to connect with Canadian sports fans across the country in a meaningful way.”, said Lorne Zweig, VP Sales, Sleeman Breweries. “Canadians are passionate about golf, and together we look forward to elevating the experience for them both on and off the course.”

The 2026 RBC Canadian Open will take place June 10-14 at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley in Caledon, Ont. and the 2026 CPKC Women’s Open will take place August 19-23 at Royal Mayfair Golf Club in Edmonton, Alta.

For more information on the Sleeman Clubhouse or to secure your spot in the premium space, please visit rbccanadianopen.com/tickets/.

For more information on Sleeman Breweries and its offerings, please visit sleemanbreweries.ca.

ABOUT SLEEMAN BREWERIES

Sleeman Breweries, founded in 1834 and proudly revived in Guelph, Ontario in 1988, is now Canada’s third-largest national brewer. Rooted in Canadian heritage and craftsmanship, Sleeman has always done things differently, from pioneering clear bottles, launching a cream ale in a lager-dominated market, and crafting time-honoured Canadian brewing traditions with a modern blend. Sleeman’s portfolio includes top Canadian brands like Sleeman Original Canadian Lager, Sleeman Clear 2.0 Light Lager, Sleeman Honey Brown Lager, and Sleeman Zero+ Non-Alcoholic Lager. For more information, visit www.sleeman.ca.

OAKVILLE, On. – The Golf Canada Foundation and the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame are proud to announce the creation of the Golf Canada Foundation Heritage Grant Program.

The newly established Heritage Project Grant will provide financial assistance of up to $2,000 to support community heritage projects related to the game of golf in Canada.

“We are excited to announce the launch of the Heritage Project Grant and appreciate the generous support from our donors and partners with the Golf Canada Foundation for making this possible,” said Meggan Gardner, Director, Heritage Services, Golf Canada. “Bringing to life the history of various golf events and competitions, its champions, and most importantly, the community that golf creates, is what this grant will support.”

Heritage Projects that would qualify for the Heritage Project Grant can include, but are not limited to:

• Collection and digitization of historical documents, photographs and artifacts related to golf in Canada.
• Conducting oral history interviews with golfers, historians and members of the golf community.
• Dissemination of findings through a dedicated website, community events and social media channels to engage the public.
• Supporting the publishing of printed or electronic history books and websites.

The Heritage Project Grant is open for applications to all Golf Canada members (golf course, facilities and individual members). The deadline for applications is Friday, March 27, 2026. To apply for the grant and review specific evaluation criteria, please click here.

For more information on the Heritage Project Grant, please contact Meggan Gardner at mgardner@golfcanada.ca.

Each week we write to Golf Canada members who record a hole-in-one, congratulating them and asking if they’d tell us how it happened. These are their stories (edited for length and clarity).

Have you recently accomplished the feat of a hole-in-one? Tell us about it! Share your story, picture / video and course information with us at holeinone@golfcanada.ca.

Brian Norrie, Belvedere Golf Club, Hole #9

I had my first hole-in-one at Belvedere Golf Club. It was hole #9 and I used a pitching wedge from 109 yards. My playing partners were Mike Conway, John Howatt and Wayne Birch.

Jeff Antonik, Cordova Bay Golf Course, Hole #17

It was awesome. My first hole-in-one and I’ve had a lot of tries! Happy to be in the club now. We were on a shotgun start due to a frost delay. Started on hole #12 and I got it on hole #17, so our sixth hole. Hole #17 is a beauty with tee to green all water. We gunned it at 150 yards and I hit a towering 8 iron that spun back about five feet before dropping.

We have a big team rivalry in our group of guys which is based off our annual Ryder cup trips. I’m on Pin High Golf Club along with my playing partner that day, Brandon Cali. We were playing against Tristan Melton and Ray who are on the other Ryder Cup team called the River Rats. We’ve had a long standing rule in our group that a hole-in-one automatically wins the match. It has never come into play until now. As Brando and I ran around screaming, “it’s over, it’s over” you could see dejection all over their faces!

Tracy McCabe, Campeche Country Club, Hole #6

It was a long awaited reward for playing golf. My brother was a two handicap and never had one and my dad is a nine handicap and 86 years old. He got his first two years ago and now has dementia so he can’t remember he did it. I am happy to join the club and lived long enough to get one and hopefully remember for years to come.

I played with Janice Klassen, Rene Raphael and Cathy Scott.

I used a 5 hybrid on a 141 yard uphill par 3. I couldn’t see it go in.

Carol Farronato, Heritage Harbour Golf Resort, Hole #12

I have been playing golf for about 20 years and last week I got my first hole-in-one. I was playing in my ladies league with three lovely ladies. It was on hole #12 and I was first up on the par 3, 90 yard shot using my 9 iron. The hole was in a shaded spot and all of us believed I over shot the hole. We searched for my ball but finally, I dropped another ball.

The first lady to putt in the hole picked out her ball and said, “you won’t believe this, here’s Carol’s ball.” Of course we were all so excited! We are snowbirds from Ontario and winter in Florida. I play three times a week at Heritage Harbour Golf course.

Daymon Eng, University Golf Club, Hole #12

It was my first one and here’s how it happened. Sunday was a beautiful sunny day. I was playing with Eelco Snijders, Nick Lyons and Sam Cullen. We’re members of the UGC Weekend Mens Group. Hole #12 was playing 102 yards with the pin back right. I hit my 52 degree wedge. We thought it looked good but the pin was hidden so we couldn’t see it go in. Nick walked up to scope out his chip shot and couldn’t see my ball. He looked on the hole and it was there!

After celebrating, the rest of my game took a turn for the worse and eventually lost my match to Nick who played lights out that day. We celebrated with the rest of the weekend boys in the clubhouse with a round of drinks on me!

From Montréal late‑nighters to mountain-town hangouts, a new wave of indoor golf lounges are transforming how Canadians get together. Think playlists and pitchers, birthday celebrations and beginner nights, trackable swings and trivia games. Discover these cool spots across the country to visit this winter (or any rainy day) where you can find your people — whether you’re out with friends, corralling the kids, or fitting in nine after work.

VGolf Lounge (Québec City, QC)

Quebec City’s exciting indoor‑golf venue features up to 20 simulators, lively multi‑sport screens for kids, cozy VIP bays, and a mezzanine that makes league nights special. It’s a friendly place where groups of four often end up making new friends and sharing fun memories.

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Le Birdie (Montréal, QC)

In Rosemont, Le Birdie offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels more like a creative studio than just a simulator bay. Its sleek, clean design, along with 24/7 self‑serve entry, and lively community leagues, creates a space that invites quick, fun sessions and spontaneous drop‑ins. It’s a relaxed and welcoming place, perfect for anyone curious to try out the game and enjoy the experience at their own pace.

 

 

 

 

 

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Mulligans Golf Bar (Ottawa, ON)

Located right in the heart of downtown, Mulligans blends indoor golf with a cozy gastropub atmosphere. Enjoy delicious scratch-made dishes and handcrafted drinks, making it a perfect spot whether you’re planning a fun team outing, catching up with friends, or simply enjoying a relaxed round before heading home. Everyone — whether a golf enthusiast or a first-timer — is greeted with the same friendly gusto, creating an inviting, laid-back vibe for all.

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19th Hole Indoor Golf & Social (Burlington, ON)

This vibrant location provides a wide range of activities for all to enjoy. Whether you’re testing the golf sim bays, racing F1 cars in action, playing board games, or enjoying dishes from a varied menu, there’s something for everyone. With appealing nightly specials and adaptable event options, it’s ideal for romantic dates or small celebrations. Golfers can improve their swings, while friends and families relax together over good food and entertaining games.

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Burloak Indoor Golf (Oakville, ON)

Covering 14,400 square feet, this inviting complex is home to 12 bays, a dedicated short‑game area, and a variety of fitting and lesson options. Casey’s Clubhouse — with its licensed lounge — offers fun amenities like pool tables, darts, shuffleboard, and plenty of cozy seating by the fireplace. Whether you’re here to sharpen your short game or to enjoy quality time with friends, the welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to relax and stay awhile.

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GOLF ON (Mississauga, ON)

Designed with groups in mind, the VIP rooms are perfect for a fun and social experience. They come equipped with karaoke, Mario Kart, pool, giant Jenga, and delicious food and drinks delivered right to your bay‑side. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a themed night, or enjoying a private tournament, it’s a warm and welcoming spot for everyone. Even beginners will feel comfortable and have a great time!

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Happy’s Sim‑Play‑Social (West St. Paul – Winnipeg, MB)

Designed with families and youth groups at heart, this space offers five bays, two versatile multi-sport simulators (covering everything from hockey to basketball), and a full arcade. With friendly prices, fun party packages, and a private room, it has quickly become a favourite spot for mixed-ability groups and weekend adventures.

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JJ Golf (Calgary, AB)

This lounge features five private-screen rooms, dependable food and beverage service, and a changing schedule of activities—ranging from kids’ camps to league nights. It’s a friendly launch point for new players and a dependable practice spot for regulars.

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CanGOLF (Canmore, AB)

Part simulator lounge and part mountain retreat, this venue serves up golf with sweeping views of the Three Sisters. The restaurant, upstairs event space, arcade games, and daily specials make it a favourite spot for both locals and weekend visitors seeking a relaxed evening out.

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Hideout Golf (Vancouver, BC)

Imagine a tropical-inspired simulator bar in English Bay that turns a rainy day into a fun, lively evening! With four bays, a variety of multi-sport games, daily specials, and fun party packages — including towering margaritas — it’s the perfect, relaxed spot for friends looking to kick off a night with some great activity and good times.

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Why you’ll love these spots

If you enjoy nightlife, indoor golf lounges are great for turning a casual game into a full evening of fun. You’ll find a laid-back atmosphere with music, tasty food, and plenty of space for groups to relax. Whether it’s a date night, birthday celebration, or simply catching up after work, these venues stay open late and focus on socializing, all without the fuss of booking a tee time.

If you’re bringing the family or trying golf for the first time, you’ll find that many venues are perfect for newcomers. With multi-sport modes, fun games for kids, and friendly staff, it’s a relaxed environment that’s easy to enjoy. Parents can enjoy a few swings, kids can stay happily entertained, and first-timers can give the game a try without the pressure of a full round.

If you love the game and want to stay sharp, indoor golf is a fantastic way to keep practicing all year round! With reliable ball-flight technology, a variety of course options, and organized league play, you can stay engaged and improve even during the off-season. It’s a great way to maintain your swing and stay connected to the game until spring comes back.

Indoor golf isn’t just a winter workaround — it’s becoming Canada’s new social clubhouse. Across the country, off-course formats are inviting more folks to enjoy the game—whether it’s late-night gatherings or busy parents craving some quick, meaningful fun. It’s golf on your schedule, any night you choose!

So pick your scene. Book ahead. Keep score your way. Make it social. #JustSwing.

Oakville, Ont. — Golf Canada is pleased to announce the appointment of Brian Newton as the new Tournament Director of the CPKC Women’s Open. 

As Tournament Director, Newton will lead all planning, execution, and stakeholder engagement for the CPKC Women’s Open, working collaboratively with the LPGA Tour, corporate partners, host communities, and internal teams to advance the continued growth and success of Canada’s premier women’s golf championship.

Newton brings a proven track record of leadership in championship operations, most recently serving as Director, Operations – Professional Championships with Golf Canada. Over the past seven years, with both events achieving record growth, he oversaw the full operational delivery of the CPKC Women’s Open and RBC Canadian Open, managing budgets, leading national operations teams, and coordinating complex event infrastructure.

The Toronto resident has worked extensively with key tournament partners and stakeholders across Canada’s two National Open Championships, including title sponsors, host clubs, contractors, government funding partners, and both the LPGA and PGA Tours. He has also led major supplier negotiations, developed RFPs for championship services, and supported the integration of sponsor and hospitality programs to ensure an exceptional championship experience for players, fans, volunteers, and corporate partners.

“I am thrilled to step into the role of Tournament Director for the CPKC Women’s Open. The momentum across the LPGA Tour and women’s golf worldwide is incredible, and the excitement around Canada’s National Open Golf Championship has never been stronger,” said Newton. “To help shape and lead a signature Canadian sporting event that brings world-class athletes and passionate golf fans together is truly inspiring, and I look forward to this historic championship continuing to elevate on the global golf stage.”

Prior to joining Golf Canada, Newton held event operations leadership roles with Hockey Canada, overseeing venue operations for the 2019 IIHF World Junior Championship, as well as with SportBox Entertainment Group, Cabot Links Golf Resort, and the Canadian Junior Golf Association. His experience spans world-class golf and hockey championships, national junior events, and premium guest experience environments.

“Brian has played an integral role in delivering Canada’s National Open Championships, leading the operational planning and execution that underpin both the CPKC Women’s Open and the RBC Canadian Open,” said Golf Canada Chief Operating Officer Garrett Ball. “His deep familiarity with our championships as well as experiences across the broader event management landscape position him exceptionally well to lead the CPKC Women’s Open into its next chapter.”

Newton takes over the role from former CPKC Women’s Open Tournament Director Claire Welsh, who is departing Golf Canada. 

Golf Canada is deeply saddened by the loss of PGA of Ontario Class “A” Associate Professional and First Tee – Ontario Level 3 coach, Kerri Slaughter of St. Catharines, Ont. who passed away peacefully on February 15, 2026 at the age of 54.

Slaughter was an integral member of St. Catharines Golf & Country Club’s teaching and professional team for the past eight years. With a focus on teaching junior golfers, Slaughter became a certified First Tee coach in 2022, leading the youth development program at the private course for children who would not otherwise have the opportunity to play.

Slaughter strived to advance youth golf through affordable introductory opportunities across St. Catharines. She championed outreach and led ‘try golf’ events for local schools and community organizations to ensure children who may not have thought of golf as a sport for them could experience the game. Since 2022, Slaughter engaged nearly 400 participants aged 7-16 in First Tee programming, particularly introducing more girls to the sport through numerous all-girls try golf events.

Slaughter was also an advocate in building awareness for the First Tee – Canada program among the membership at St. Catharines Golf & Country Club, encouraging members to get involved by donating or volunteering as an assistant coach for programs. She also lent her time to leading First Tee introductory golf clinics at Golf Canada’s Amateur and Professional Golf Championships, including the 2023, 2024 and 2025 World Junior Girls Championship and the 2023 RBC Canadian Open.

One of the Ontario chapter’s longest-standing coaches, Slaughter embodied the values of First Tee – Canada through her teaching style, offering kindness and comfort that made youth new to the sport feel like they belonged. She was a strong believer that youth should have access to the game that supported her since she was young, and worked toward that mission.

Slaughter touched the lives of many across her personal and professional network and is survived by her parents, John and Jill Slaughter (Chatham, Ont.), brother Andy (Danielle), nephew, Lukas, and niece, Mackenzie.

A link to the obituary notice from Tallman Funeral Homes is below:
https://www.tallmanfuneralhomes.ca/obituaries/Kerri-Lynn-Slaughter?obId=47265835

Integrity, empathetic, humble, visionary. These are words often used to describe Peter Broome.

In August 2024, the long-time golf industry leader and retired Acushnet Company executive was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). In the face of personal adversity, Peter and his family have chosen to fight and shift the focus to helping others that face the same challenging path he currently travels.

In starting the ALS Bridge Foundation, the Montreal, Que. native (Jupiter, Fla. resident) continues to demonstrate true leadership and quiet grace that has shaped his career over the past three decades.

As Founder of the ALS Bridge Foundation, Broome leads the vision and mandate, to accelerate the development of effective treatments for ALS, by providing crucial funding for early-stage drug trials and improving access to early diagnostics for individuals living with the disease in Canada and the United States.

“Peter is one of the most respected and selfless people I have ever met. When he was diagnosed, so many of us immediately knew we wanted to stand beside him in this fight,” said 8-time PGA Tour winner, NBC analyst and longtime friend Brad Faxon. “The Foundation is about helping Peter’s mission of changing the future of ALS for patients and families everywhere. I’m proud to be part of this with him, and many of us are fully committed to helping this succeed.”

Through strategic partnerships with Access ALS in Canada and ALS MyMatch in the U.S., the Foundation will help expand clinical trial access and treatment matching for patients across North America. In Canada, Access ALS is a national platform accelerating early access to ALS therapies led by the Montreal Neuro ALS Clinic at McGill University.

The Foundation’s funding strategy is comprised of two primary pillars including private donations that allow the Foundation to allocate to urgent research and access opportunities. In addition, the Foundation is opening its first-ever auction of exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

These opportunities are made possible by supporters who stand with Broome and the mission including Canadian PGA TOUR stars Corey Conners, Taylor Pendrith and Mackenzie Hughes and Montreal Canadiens captain and 2026 Olympian Nick Suzuki. Along with fellow PGA TOUR stars Justin Thomas, Rickie Fowler, Keegan Bradley, Team Europe Ryder Cup Captain Luke Donald and legendary broadcaster Jim Nantz.

For more information on the Bridge Foundation’s auction or to bid on an experience, please click here.

“Innovative, thoughtful, courageous, and inherently classy—these are the qualities that define Peter Broome. His influence on golf in Canada and across the global game is both profound and enduring,” said Laurence Applebaum, CEO, Golf Canada. “Now his advocacy for ALS research through the Bridge Foundation reflects not only his courage, but the depth of his character and his commitment to making the world better for others.”

Broome’s extraordinary impact and contributions to the game span his entire life. A successful junior player at the Royal Montreal Golf Club and Mount Bruno Country Club transitioned into holding positions as an assistant professional in his hometown. From there, Broome would begin a successful career in golf operations including 30-years as a senior executive with Acushnet Company. Most recently, he served as the senior vice president of Titleist Brand Management and Acushnet Industry Relations, a portfolio that included overseeing partnerships with the PGA TOUR and Governing Bodies. In addition, Broome led Acushnet’s operations in Canada and Latin America, ensuring continued growth for the game at home and around the world.

Following his distinguished career, Broome was invited to join the Board of Directors of Golf Canada in 2024 as a director at large. He currently Co-Chairs the Golf Industry Advisory Council and is a member of the Compensation Committee.

In 2025, Broome’s devotion and impact on the game was recognized with a number of prestigious awards. Broome was bestowed as an Honorary Member of the PGA of America for his outstanding contributions to the game of golf and support to PGA of America Golf Professionals in November. He joins an exclusive group including three U.S. Presidents as only the 13th person to receive the honour in PGA history.

In addition, Broome was honoured as the 10th recipient of the George Cumming Award from the PGA of Canada and also received the Legacy Award from the Golf Canada Foundation for being a philanthropic champion of the game in Canada. Earlier this year, he was named as the 45th inductee into the Québec Golf Hall of Fame.

ALS remains a devastating disease with no cure and limited treatment options. Speed of research and access is critical in helping to build a future where ALS becomes a treatable disease rather than a terminal diagnosis.

To learn more about the Bridge Foundation and Peter Broome’s story, please visit www.alsbridgefoundation.com.

Former Golf Canada Executive Director was globally renowned as one of the foremost authorities in the Rules of Golf, a passionate golf industry leader whose decades of service helped shape the modern era of Canadian golf.

Golf Canada and the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Stephen Douglas Ross of Dundas, Ont. — a 2011 inductee into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and one of the most influential administrators in Canadian golf history.

The golf community extends sincere condolences to Stephen’s wife, Janet; his four children – Stephanie (Dan), Andrew, Christopher (Stephanie) and Nicholas; grandchildren Savannah, Scarlett, Samantha, Isaiah, Sadie, Skylee and Sienna; and the entire extended Ross family.

An obituary with service details will be shared at a later date, once it becomes available.

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A respected golf industry leader, Stephen Ross devoted more than 30 years of his life to the Royal Canadian Golf Association (now Golf Canada), shaping the sport’s development in Canada with vision, integrity, and unmatched dedication.

Born on June 22, 1954, in Newmarket, Ont., and a graduate of the University of Western Ontario’s Richard Ivey School of Business, Ross began his career with the RCGA in 1977 as Assistant Amateur Tournament Director. He went on to serve as Director of Amateur Tournaments from 1980 to 1988 before being appointed Executive Director in 1989—a role he held with distinction for 18 years until 2007.

During his tenure, Ross guided the organization through a period of unprecedented growth and major transition. His leadership was instrumental in launching transformative programs and initiatives, including the former Future Links junior golf program, the RCGA Foundation University/College Grant Program (now administered through the Golf Canada Foundation), the RCGA’s high performance program, and significant expansion of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Museum. He played central roles in landmark moments in Canadian golf, such as the sale of Glen Abbey Golf Club in 1999 and the 2005 amalgamation with the Canadian Ladies Golf Association.

Ross also championed national championships and grassroots golf. He led centennial celebrations for both the RCGA and the Canadian Open; helped safeguard and elevate the Canadian Women’s Open and Canadian Women’s Tour; established the former Canadian Senior Open; negotiated major sponsorships; reintroduced Golf Canada magazine; oversaw the purchase of the former RCGA Golf Centre in Calgary; and organized prominent international events such as the Four Nations Cup.

Internationally, Ross earned a reputation as one of the world’s foremost authorities on the Rules of Golf. He served on the Joint Rules Committee alongside representatives from the R&A and USGA, officiating at many of the game’s most prestigious championships, including The Open Championship, The Masters, the U.S. Open, World Match Play, the Players Championship, the Presidents Cup, the Australian Open, and the Canadian Open.

He introduced the USGA slope rating system in Canada, established national Rules certification programs, and helped organize the 1992 World Amateur Team Championship. He also served on the World Golf Hall of Fame election panel.

In 2012, Ross was inducted into the Ontario Golf Hall of Fame and in 2013, the International Association of Golf Administrators (IAGA) honoured him with its Distinguished Service Award.

At the time of his passing, Ross and his family owned and operated the Oak Gables Golf Club and Learning Centre in Hamilton, Ont., continuing his lifelong commitment to nurturing the game.

“Stephen Ross’s influence on Canadian golf is immeasurable, a globally respected golf industry champion who changed the landscape of Canadian golf,” said Golf Canada CEO Laurence Applebaum. “His leadership, intellect, and unwavering passion elevated the sport at every level—from juniors to professionals, from national governance to global standards. His legacy will endure through the programs he built, the championships he shaped, and the countless individuals he mentored and inspired.

Golf Canada and the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame extend their heartfelt condolences to the Ross family, Stephen’s industry colleagues, and all who were touched by his remarkable life and career.

Competition calendar highlighted by Canada’s National Open Championships –
the RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open

 Includes 11 National Amateur Championships presented by BDO, six NextGen Championships,
the World Junior Girls Golf Championship presented by BFL CANADA, two Canadian Collegiate Invitationals, and the BDO National Golf League Finals

Golf Canada will also conduct qualifiers for USGA Championships including Local and Final Qualifying for the U.S. Open. Along with the U.S. Women’s Open, U.S. Amateur and Women’s Amateur and U.S. Junior Amateur and Girls’ Junior Championship

OAKVILLE, Ont. – Golf Canada is pleased to announce its full 2026 championship schedule, which includes amateur and professional competitions in addition to various qualifiers hosted at member clubs across Canada.

The 2026 schedule is headlined by Golf Canada’s two National Open Championships — the 115th playing of the RBC Canadian Open, taking place at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley (North Course) in Caledon, Ont. June 10-14 and the 52nd playing of the CPKC Women’s Open, being held at Royal Mayfair Golf Club in Edmonton, Alta., August 19-23.

VIEW THE FULL SCHEDULE

Golf Canada’s 2026 competition calendar also includes 11 National Amateur Championships presented by BDO, six NextGen Championships, two Canadian Collegiate Invitationals, the BDO National Golf League Finals and the World Junior Girls Golf Championship, presented by BFL CANADA.

As the National Sport Organization and governing body, Golf Canada conducts the country’s premier amateur and professional golf championships to support the development of the nation’s top talent through world-class competition.

“We are proud to announce the full championship schedule for 2026 and are excited to welcome the top golf athletes from across Canada and around the world competing for our prestigious national championships,” said Mary Beth McKenna, Golf Canada Director, Amateur Championships and Rules. “On behalf of Golf Canada and all of the competitors, I would like to thank our corporate partners, our host clubs, tournament staff and volunteers across the country for their continued commitment and support of our championships and our sport.”

The Canadian Financial Assistance Program supported by Gary Cowan Heritage Fund and the Canadian Senior Golf Association will once again be available for juniors competing in the NextGen Championships, all National Junior Championships (Juniors and U15), and players competing at the Canadian All Abilities Championship who meet eligibility requirements. More details on the program for the 2026 season will be released next month.

Golf Canada will also conduct several professional and amateur championship qualifiers including five RBC Canadian Open Regional Qualifiers along with Final Qualifying for both the RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open.

Following changes to PGA TOUR field sizes for the 2026 season, players who finish within the top ten per cent of the field (and ties) at each Regional Qualifying event will earn a spot into Final Qualifying. The Final Qualifier will take place on Sunday, June 7 at The Pulpit Club in Caledon, Ont. The top four finishers will earn an exemption into the 2026 RBC Canadian Open.

The She Plays Golf Championship Series will award three exemptions into the 2026 CPKC Women’s Open through three tournaments across Canada. The first will be the GolfBC Group BC Women’s Open, taking place June 11-13 at Nicklaus North Golf Course in Whistler, B.C., followed by the Peloton Glencoe Invitational, taking place June 18-20 at The Glencoe Golf and Country Club in Calgary, Alta. The final stop will be the PGA Women’s Championship of Canada with more information announced later. Each tournament winner will earn an exemption into the 2026 CPKC Women’s Open.

Other notable qualifiers conducted for USGA Championships on the 2026 schedule include a U.S. Open Local and Final Qualifier, a U.S. Women’s Open Qualifier in addition to qualifiers for the U.S. Women’s Open, U.S. Amateur and Women’s Amateur and the U.S. Junior Amateur and Girls’ Junior Championship.

Golf Canada’s championship season kicks off May 1-3 with the NextGen Pacific Championship at Morningstar Golf Club in Parksville, B.C. The season concludes with the World Junior Girls Golf Championship, presented by BFL CANADA at Brampton Golf Club in Brampton, Ont. from September 30 to October 3.

To view Golf Canada’s 2026 Championship Schedule including all host venues, registration requirements and volunteer opportunities visit golfcanada.ca/competitions-calendar/.

2026 Amateur Championship Season at a Glance:

The third annual BDO National Golf League Finals will be held at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley in Caledon, Ont. on June 6 ahead of tournament week for the RBC Canadian Open. Fifty-two teams will compete in a four-ball net stableford format to crown the BDO National Golf League champions and earn an invitation to represent Canada at The R&A’s 9 Hole Challenge.

The Canadian University/College Championship, presented by BDO, will be held June 15-19 at Club de Golf La Tempête in Lévis, Que. The championship includes both a team and individual component featuring Canada’s top university and college talent. The winning men’s and women’s team will qualify for their respective 2026 Canadian Collegiate Invitationals, and the individual winners will receive exemptions into their respective 2026 Men’s and Women’s Amateur Championship. The UBC Thunderbirds successfully defended their titles last year in both the Men’s and Women’s divisions, marking the eighth consecutive win for the Women’s program. Individually, Alek Mauro (Windsor Lancers) and Julia Alexander-Carew (UBC Okanagan Heat) took home individual honours.

The 112th Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship, presented by BDO, takes place July 20-24 at The Toronto Golf Club in Mississauga, Ont. The champion will earn an exemption into the 2026 CPKC Women’s Open, the 2026 U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship and the 2027 Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship. Team Canada NextGen member, Michelle Xing of Richmond Hill, Ont. was the lone player under par and won her first Duchess of Connaught Gold Cup last July.

The 121st Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship, presented by BDO, will be contested July 25-30 in Calgary, Alta. at Mickelson National Golf Club and Heritage Pointe Golf Club. The champion will receive an exemption into the 2027 RBC Canadian Open, as well as an invitation to the 2026 U.S. Amateur Championship. The winner will also receive an exemption into Final Qualifying for the 2027 U.S. Open and into the 2027 Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship. Last year, Declan O’Donovan of Sydney, Australia won the championship in a two-hole playoff over Team Canada NextGen member Isaiah Ibit of Orleans, Ont., becoming the first Australian to win the title since Gary Simpson in 1993.

The Canadian Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship, presented by BDO, will be held August 5-7 at the Burlington Golf & Country Club in Burlington, Ont. The field is open to female amateurs aged 25-and-over. The winner will receive exemptions into the 2026 U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship, 2027 Canadian Women’s Amateur and the 2027 Canadian Women’s Mid-Amateur Championships. Judith Kyrinis of Thornhill, Ont. won her fourth Canadian Women’s Mid-Amateur title in a three-hole playoff over Nonie Marler of Vancouver, B.C. last season.

The Canadian All Abilities Championship, presented by BDO, will be played at Hylands Golf Club in Gloucester, Ont. from August 5-7. The national championship for players with neurological, intellectual, sensory, and physical impairments, is contested over 54-holes. Natasha Stasiuk of Oakville, Ont. is the five-time defending champion on the women’s side, while Josh Williams of Tavistock, Ont. won his first men’s title last year. The gross stroke play men’s and women’s champion earn an exemption into the 2027 U.S. Adaptive Open (if eligible).

The Canadian Junior Boys Championship, presented by BDO, will be contested August 11-14 at Wascana Country Club in Regina, Sask. The champion will receive an exemption into the 2027 U.S. Junior Amateur Championship, 2027 Canadian Junior Boys (if eligible) and 2027 Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship. Dawson Lew of Toronto, Ont. became the 12th player to claim both the Junior Boys and Juvenile titles in the same year last summer.

The Canadian Junior Girls Championship, presented by BDO, will run August 11-14 at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley (Heathlands Course). The winner will earn an exemption into the 2027 Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship, the 2027 U.S. Girls’ Junior Championship and the 2027 Canadian Junior Girls Championship (if eligible). Team Canada NextGen member Shauna Liu of Maple, Ont. successfully defended her title last summer, becoming the first player to win the national championship in consecutive years since Heather Kuzmich in 1982.

The Canadian Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship, presented by BDO, will be held August 17-21 at Brantford Golf & Country Club in Brantford, Ont. The field is open to male amateurs aged 25-and-over. The winner will receive exemptions into the 2026 U.S. Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship, 2027 Canadian Men’s Amateur and the 2027 Canadian Men’s Mid-Amateur Championships. Last season, Charles Fitzsimmons of King, Ont. became the fourth three-time winner of the national championship after winning back-to-back in 2021 and 2022.

The Canadian U15 Championship, presented by BDO, will be contested August 24-27 at Loyalist Country Club in Bath, Ont. The boys and girls’ individual champions will earn exemptions into their respective 2027 Canadian Junior Championships and invitations into the 2026 NextGen Selection Camp. Maggie Zhang (Richmond, B.C.) and Owen Beaulac (Victoria, B.C.) won the U15 titles last summer.

The Canadian Men’s Senior Championship, presented by BDO, will be played at Niakwa Country Club in Winnipeg, Man., September 7-11. The winner will earn exemptions into the 2026 U.S. Senior Amateur Championship, the 2027 Canadian Men’s Amateur, 2027 Canadian Men’s Mid-Amateur and the 2027 Canadian Men’s Senior Championships. Last year, Don Martone of Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. comfortably claimed his first national championship by eight shots.

The third playing of the Men’s Canadian Collegiate Invitational will return to Öviinbyrd Golf Club in MacTier, Ont. from September 12-15. The tournament will be once again co-hosted by Kent State University and Penn State University. The tournament features 13 NCAA Division I teams along with the winners from the 2026 Canadian University/College Championship. The individual champion will receive an exemption into the 2027 RBC Canadian Open and the top five will earn exemptions into the 2027 Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship. The Notre Dame Fighting Irish successfully defended their team title last fall, led by Calen Sanderson (Notre Dame) who took home individual honours. The 2026 Boys NextGen Selection Camp will run concurrently during tournament play.

The Canadian Women’s Senior Championship, presented by BDO, will take place September 15-18 at Pine Hills Golf Club in Rocky Mountain House, Alta. The winner will receive an exemption into the 2026 U.S. Women’s Senior Amateur Championship, the 2027 U.S. Women’s Senior Open, as well as the 2027 Canadian Women’s Mid-Amateur and the 2027 Canadian Women’s Amateur Championships. Last year, Shelly Stouffer of Nanoose Bay, B.C. won her third Canadian Women’s Senior title, having previously won back-to-back titles in 2021 and 2022.

The second playing of the Women’s Canadian Collegiate Invitational will take place at Beacon Hall Golf Club in Aurora, Ont., from September 20-22. The tournament will be co-hosted by Kent State University and the University of Michigan. The tournament will feature 11 NCAA Division I teams along with the team champions from the 2026 Canadian University/College Championship. The individual winner will earn an exemption into the 2027 CPKC Women’s Open and the top five will earn exemptions into the 2027 Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship. Last season, the Auburn Tigers won the inaugural team championship with Veronika Kedroňová of Kent State University earning the individual title. The 2026 Girls NextGen Selection Camp will run concurrently during tournament play.

The season will conclude with the 11th playing of the World Junior Girls Golf Championship, presented by BFL CANADA and will take place at Brampton Golf Club in Brampton, Ont., from September 28 to October 3. Teams compete as three-member squads while also competing for an individual title. The Republic of Korea are the two-time defending champions, holding off Team Canada 1 and Spain for the title last year. World No. 109 on WAGR, Charlotte Naughton of England won individual honours and will compete at the 2026 CPKC Women’s Open this August. The 2026 individual champion will earn an exemption into the 2027 CPKC Women’s Open.

2026 NextGen Championships

The NextGen Championships are a high-performance junior golf series. From May to July, six championships will take place across Canada where the region’s best junior golfers will compete to earn exemptions into their respective 2026 national junior championships. NextGen Championships provide junior players an opportunity to develop and showcase their skills at the highest level of tournament golf.

The 2026 NextGen Championship host clubs include: Morningstar Golf Club (Parksville, B.C.), Tangle Creek Golf & Country Club (Thornton, Ont.), Wolf Creek Golf Resort (Ponoka, Alta.), Neepawa Golf & Country Club (Neepawa, Man.), Club de golf Lachute (Lachute, Que.), and Hampton Golf Club (Hampton, N.B.).

2026 Registration Information

Registration for Golf Canada’s 2026 competitions will open on the following dates:

• NextGen Championships: Wednesday, February 18 at 12:00pm EST
• RBC Canadian Open Qualifying: Wednesday, February 25 at 12:00pm EST
• National Amateur Championships: Wednesday, March 4 at 12:00pm EST

Please visit the Golf Canada competitions calendar and select the tournament of your choice for more information or to register, following the dates listed above.