Rank + Rally becomes Official Retail Operator of the revamped Golf Canada Fan Shop

Fans will experience enhanced retail at the RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open, with expanded access online through the Golf Canada Fan Shop

Golf Canada welcomes a new class of 13 apparel and accessory brands

CALEDON, Ont. – Golf Canada is proud to unveil a new era of merchandise and licensing that includes a new retail partnership, numerous new Golf Canada merchandise brands and a re-launched online merchandise hub.

With the reimagined strategy, Golf Canada is also pleased to announce a multi-year partnership with Rank + Rally as the Official Retail Operator of Golf Canada and the Golf Canada Fan Shop. The partnership will offer an enhanced merchandise platform that will support Canada’s National Open Championships – the RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open along with Golf Canada via a revamped ecommerce site, shop.golfcanada.ca, set to launch ahead of the RBC Canadian Open.

“Our new merchandise program reflects Golf Canada’s continued focus on building a world-class event and fan experience across both of our National Open Championships. With an expanded retail space, new shopping locations and a deeper lineup of brands, the merchandise experience will offer fans more opportunities to take home a piece of Canada’s National Opens,” said Mark Palmer, Chief Commercial Officer, Golf Canada. “We are also proud to welcome Rank + Rally as the Official Retail Operator of Golf Canada and the Golf Canada Fan Shop. Collectively, we look forward to the launch of our enhanced retail and ecommerce platform that will provide fans across Canada with a year-round opportunity to secure merchandise beyond tournament weeks.”

The reimagined Golf Canada Fan Shop will engage fans on-site at both the RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open, featuring a significantly expanded footprint and merchandise selection. The offerings include tournament-exclusive apparel, limited-edition headwear, premium accessories and commemorative items from some of the top brands in golf and sport.

The main Golf Canada Fan Shop at the RBC Canadian Open will be located near the first tee with a secondary location at The Rink (No. 14), a high-energy par-3 hole at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley, providing fans with convenient access to official tournament products at one of the most energetic and celebrated spectator environments in Canadian sport.

“We’re thrilled to join with Golf Canada to create next-generation retail experiences that provide unprecedented variety, seamless access and exclusive products to fans across the country, beginning with these two premier tournaments,” said Dan Gillham, Senior Vice President, Rank + Rally. “Our singular goal is to help bring to life the strategic vision that Mark and his team have for the Golf Canada brand as they create new ways for passionate Canadian golf fans to experience this great game.”

Rank + Rally delivers best-in-class merchandise operations across major North American sporting events, venues and team franchises. In Canada, its partners include the Edmonton Oilers and Ottawa Senators among many others. The company also serves fans during marquee sports, entertainment and cultural moments and celebrations from NBA and WNBA All-Star Games to the Stanley Cup Final and NBA Finals. In addition to overseeing all merchandise operations at both National Open Championships and online, Rank + Rally will assist in the continued expansion of Golf Canada’s retail strategy and fan engagement opportunities.

New brands strengthen and diversify the Golf Canada lineup

Golf Canada is also proud to welcome 13 new brands who will offer an expanded variety of merchandise options online and on-site at both National Open Championships through the Golf Canada Fan Shop. The new brands include Peter Millar, G/FORE, Nike, Full Wedge, TravisMathew, Breezy, Imperial, New Era, Dormie Workshop, Good Good Golf, Barstool Sports, Johnnie-O and Mustang, who will join current Official Partners Acushnet, Levelwear and YETI.

CALEDON, Ont. – Golf Canada and Signature Kitchen Suite (SKS) are pleased to announce a new partnership that names SKS the official Kitchen Appliances Partner of Golf Canada as well as the RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open.

The partnership connects SKS with Golf Canada’s premier national platforms, reaching an engaged audience in a trusted, aspirational environment where performance, craftsmanship and elevated experiences are celebrated.

“We are proud to welcome SKS as the new Official Kitchen Appliances Partner of Golf Canada,” said Mark Palmer, Chief Commercial Officer, Golf Canada. “As SKS continues to expand its presence in Canada, we’re excited to align with a premium brand that shares our commitment to performance, precision and elevated experiences that are hallmarks of both world-class golf and luxury craftsmanship.”

Launched in Canada in 2020, SKS is a luxury appliance brand delivering advanced cooking, refrigeration and ventilation solutions designed to elevate modern culinary experiences. Developed for a new generation of discerning consumers, what SKS calls the Technicurian, the brand blends precision engineering, intelligent innovation and refined design to support a more progressive, forward way of living. Through advanced performance, connected capabilities and thoughtful craftsmanship, SKS empowers those who value both technology and experience to elevate how they cook and live every day.

SKS will bring an interactive fan activation to life at the RBC Canadian Open at the ninth green at TPC Toronto, offering guests a hands-on opportunity to experience the brand’s precision-driven innovation and connected capabilities through engaging, culinary-inspired demonstrations.

“Golf Canada’s premier events provide an exceptional platform to connect with Canadian audiences who value performance, design and elevated experiences,” said Mareike Greve, Head of Marketing, Signature Kitchen Suite. “At SKS, we design for the Technicurian – those who are driven by curiosity, appreciate innovation and take pride in living ahead of the curve. This partnership allows us to showcase how precision engineering, intelligent features and thoughtful design come together to create meaningful, elevated experiences both in and beyond the kitchen.”

For more information on SKS (Signature Kitchen Suites) and its offerings, please visit sksappliances.com.

The 2026 RBC Canadian Open will take place June 10-14 at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley in Caledon, Ont. For more information or to purchase tickets, please click here. The 2026 CPKC Women’s Open will take place August 19-23 at Royal Mayfair Golf Club in Edmonton, Alta., for more information or to purchase tickets, please click here.

CALEDON, Ont. – The National Facility Awards for Junior Golf were established in 2022 to shine a light on the Golf Clubs and facilities across Canada going above and beyond to develop young Canadian golfers. These awards focus on facilities that provide exceptional experiences for their juniors by way of access, programming, development, and competition.

“The National Facility Awards for Junior Golf continue to be an incredible showcase of the country’s top clubs supporting junior golf in Canada,” said Ryan Logan, Director of External Relations, Golf Canada. “This year’s awards program was highlighted by outstanding achievements from coast to coast to coast, further elevating the quality of programming, expanding access, and deepening community partnerships that foster welcoming, accessible, and safe environments for young Canadians. We are honoured to celebrate these 2025 award winners and to shine a spotlight on the remarkable work being done to support junior golf nationwide. Congratulations to all the finalists and winners!”

The 2025 winners and finalists are as follows:

Youth on Course Program Location of the Year

Awarded to a facility that demonstrates exceptional commitment to youth golf development by providing extensive course access through Youth on Course, leading to more juniors playing at a subsidized rate throughout the calendar year.

WINNER: South Ajax Golf Club (Ajax, Ont.)

With 494 unique participants, South Ajax Golf Club had another outstanding Youth on Course season, with juniors playing a total of 2,712 rounds during the 2025 golf season, up from 1,433 rounds the previous season. Youth on Course is integrated alongside the club’s existing junior programs, ensuring it complements the offerings already in place. By allowing participants to play at any time and actively tracking rounds through the Youth on Course portal, South Ajax Golf Club maintains strong operational standards. The club’s ongoing engagement with juniors highlights its commitment to supporting Youth on Course and fostering a thriving junior golf environment.

Finalist: The Nest at Cabot Cape Breton (Inverness, N.S.)

Finalist: Meridian Hills Golf Club (Surrey, B.C.)

Tournament Host of the Year
Awarded to a facility that gives back to junior golf by embracing the opportunity to host junior competitions. The facility creates an excellent tournament experience for players and involves the local community through volunteers and fundraising support.
 
WINNER: Gowan Brae Golf & Country Club (Bathurst, N.B.)

Gowan Brae Golf & Country Club was the host of the 2025 Canadian Junior Boys Championship, presented by BDO. The club staff, led by Adam Chamberlain and the Host Club Committee, led by Shawn Patterson, both excelled in the planning and execution stages of what was an incredible championship. The club recruited upwards of 150 volunteers to ensure that competitors and guests alike were welcomed with typical East Coast hospitality. Despite an unusually dry and hot summer, the golf course remained in impeccable condition thanks to the tireless efforts of the greens staff. The event had a professional feel from start to finish, and Gowan Brae shined as a national championship host club.

Finalist: Pitt Meadows Golf Club (Pitt Meadows, B.C.)

Finalist: Club de Golf Sainte-Marie (Sainte-Marie, Que.)

First Tee Program Location of the Year

Awarded to a First Tee – Canada Program Location that demonstrates excellent enrolment in First Tee – Canada programming and makes a significant impact on growing participation among new juniors within its community.
 
WINNER: Antigonish Golf Club (Antigonish, N.S.)

Antigonish Golf Club has fully embraced First Tee in their second season offering programming. By developing meaningful relationships within their community, and creating unique fundraising opportunities, they were able to increase participation from 12 juniors in their first season, to 120 in 2025 – an increase of 900 percent. They offered six, six-hour First Tee programs at maximum capacity, and an additional six-hour, all girls session in the fall. Antigonish Golf Club’s dedication to accessibility and fostering a safe environment has created life-enhancing golf experiences for youth from all backgrounds in Atlantic Canada.

Finalist: Broadmoor Public Golf Course (Sherwood Park, Alta.)

Finalist: Cultus Lake Golf Club (Cultus Lake, B.C.)

Grassroots Junior Program of the Year

Awarded to a facility or academy program that is excelling at creating new junior golfers through local programming.

WINNER: Bowen Island Golf Club (Bowen Island, B.C.)

A returning finalist from 2024, Bowen Island continued to grow their impressive programming into 2025. In addition to free golf and club rentals for juniors, the club has connected with schools and youth programs in the area, as well as hosting various community events throughout the summer, making the club as accessible as possible for young golfers in the area. In 2025, Bowen Island registered over 1,500 rounds played by juniors, all free of charge.

Finalist: The Oaks of St. George Golf Club (Paris, Ont.)

Finalist: Paragon Golf & Country Club (Kingston, N.S.)

Junior Golf Opportunity Award

Awarded to a facility that provides exceptional access and membership opportunities for junior golfers. Special consideration is given to facilities with strong non-family sponsored junior programs and facilities with fundraising programs to help athletes compete at provincial, national, and international competitions.

WINNER: Glendale Golf & Country Club (Winnipeg, Man.)

With programming available for children as young as three, Glendale Golf & Country Club offers a stellar, well-rounded junior golf experience. From first swings and introductory clinics to summer camps and family events for recreational players, season-long challenges and competitive opportunities, Glendale supports juniors at every stage of their development. The club’s commitment to access and growth ensures young golfers not only build golf skills but develop a lasting love for the game.

Finalist: Club de golf Lotbinière (Saint-Gilles, Que.)

Finalist: The Marshes Golf Club (Ottawa, Ont.)

Competitive Junior Program of the Year

Awarded to a facility or academy program with many junior athletes competing in provincial and national championships and earning strong results in those championships.

WINNER: Club de golf de la Vallée du Richelieu (Sainte-Julie, Que.)

Club de golf de la Vallée du Richelieu demonstrates a deep commitment to developing young athletes into high-performing golfers. Supported by a foundation dedicated solely toward growing their junior programming, the club provides a comprehensive training environment that combines targeted on-course practice with off-course specialists in physical training, nutrition and sport psychology. This dedication is evident in their golfers’ successes, with many juniors competing provincially, and an impressive nine players representing the club at the 2025 Canadian Junior Boys and Girls Championships.

Finalist: Summit Golf Club (Richmond Hill, Ont.)

Finalist: Hazelmere Golf & Tennis Club (Surrey, B.C.)

Golf Canada extends its congratulations and heartfelt thanks to all winners and finalists for their dedication to junior golf. Their efforts continue to shape the future of the sport, ensuring young golfers across the country have the opportunities and resources available to succeed.

For more information about the National Facility Awards for Junior Golf, please visit golfcanada.ca/national-facility-awards-for-junior-golf/.

If you have any questions regarding the awards or nomination process, please feel free to email NFAJG@golfcanada.ca.

Golf fans will be able to enjoy a Copper Rose signature cocktail at both of
Canada’s National Open Championships this summer

OAKVILLE, Ont. – Golf Canada and Copper Rose Distillery are pleased to announce a renewed multi-year partnership agreement that sees the Canadian company continue as the Official Vodka of Golf Canada as well as the RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open.

Through the renewed partnership, Copper Rose will offer fans attending Canada’s National Open Championships a signature cocktail and premium product sampling within their activation spaces located in The Fareway, along with a VIP sampling experience in select hospitality areas at both the RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open.

“We are proud to continue our partnership with a proudly Canadian company, Copper Rose,” said Mark Palmer, Chief Commercial Officer, Golf Canada. “Their increased presence and premium offerings will provide an exceptional experience for our fans at both National Open Championships this summer.”

Founded in 2022 and proudly based in Amherstburg, Ont. Copper Rose produces premium vodka handcrafted with the finest Canadian rye grain and distilled 12 times for a silky, smooth finish. The velvety spirit delivers a premium pour perfect for sipping or mixing with cocktails. Copper Rose was proudly awarded a gold medal along with the Innovation award at the 2025 SIP Awards.

“We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Golf Canada as the official vodka,” said Melissa Roberts, CEO and Managing Director, Copper Rose Distillery. “As a distinctly Canadian brand rooted in craftsmanship and quality, this continued collaboration reflects our shared pursuit of excellence and exceptional experiences. We look forward to raising a glass with golf enthusiasts across the country.”

For more information on Copper Rose Distillery and its offerings, please visit copperrose.ca.

The 2026 RBC Canadian Open will take place June 10-14 at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley in Caledon, Ont. for more information or to purchase tickets, please click here. The 2026 CPKC Women’s Open will take place August 19-23 at Royal Mayfair Golf Club in Edmonton, Alta., for more information or to purchase tickets, please click here.

2025 Annual Report & Financial Statements are now available.

Longtime Rules Official Nancy Layton recognized as

2025 recipient of the Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Award

Volunteers Roger Beach and Brenda McIlwaine along with media producer Jamie Reidel recognized with Golf Canada’s 2026 Distinguished Service Award

Long-time Golf Canada contributors Rob MacDonald and Michel St-Laurent appointed
Honorary Life Governors in recognition of their remarkable contributions to the sport.

Alena Sharp, Peter Broome, Pat Bradley and Lee Trevino inducted
into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame

OAKVILLE, Ont. – Golf Canada’s 2026 Annual General Meeting concluded on Wednesday, March 11 with the election of Adam Daifallah of Montréal, Que. to serve a second term as the 118th President of the National Sport Federation.

A volunteer with Golf Canada since 2013, Daifallah joined the Board of Directors in 2018 and recently concluded his first term as president. Prior to becoming president, he served two consecutive terms as vice president (2023-2024). Daifallah is currently a Senior Managing Director at Teneo, the global CEO advisory firm, with responsibility for Teneo’s Montréal office. Previously he was co-founder and Managing Partner of the public affairs firm HATLEY Strategy Advisors, which was acquired by Teneo in 2020. Prior to that, Daifallah practiced law at the Montréal office of Norton Rose Fulbright (then Ogilvy Renault), sat on the editorial board of the National Post, and was Washington correspondent of The New York Sun. He is co-author of two books on Canadian politics. A link to Daifallah’s full bio is here.

“Golf Canada remains committed to fostering a sport that is more accessible, more inclusive, more innovative, and more deeply connected to communities across the country. It is an honour to continue to serve as president of Golf Canada and help to lead this vision alongside the board and staff, led by CEO Laurence Applebaum,” said Adam Daifallah, President, Golf Canada. “The energy surrounding Canadian golf has never been stronger, and the opportunities ahead have never been greater. This moment calls for a continued commitment to shaping Canadian golf with intention, innovation, and unity.”

Based on the Report of Golf Canada’s Nominating Committee, Daifallah will be joined on the 2026 Board of Directors by returning Vice President, Jean-Sébastien Monty of Montréal. They will lead the 13-member Board of Directors who will work closely with Golf Canada CEO Laurence Applebaum and Golf Canada’s management team.

Returnees to the Board of Directors include Steven Young (Banff, Alta.), Louise Patry (Montréal, Que.), Nafeez Hirji (Calgary, Alta.), Peter Broome (Jupiter, Fla.), Lori Dithurbide (Halifax, N.S.), Pamela Huff (Toronto, Ont.), Katie Mahon (Kingston, Ont.), and Brittany Marchand (Mooresville, N.C.).

New additions to Golf Canada’s Board of Directors include former CFL Commissioner Randy Ambrosie (Toronto, Ont.), Kendra Koss (Calgary, Alta.) and Ron Lloyd (Toronto, Ont.).

For the biographies of Golf Canada’s Board of Directors, click here.

As part of its virtually conducted Annual General Meeting, Golf Canada also released the organization’s 2025 Annual Report including its Financial Statements which are available here.

Nancy Layton named 2025 Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year

In celebration of volunteerism, Golf Canada recognized Nancy Layton of Ayer’s Cliff, Que. as the 2025 recipient of the Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Award. A dedicated advocate for the Rules of Golf, Layton is longtime volunteer with Golf Canada and Golf Quebec and currently serves as Chair of the Rules Education Subcommittee. Layton has contributed countless hours and is considered a mentor to many, both on a national and provincial level, through her work in the Rules of Golf. For the full story, click here.

Roger Beach, Brenda McIlwaine, and Jamie Reidel recognized with Golf Canada’s 2026 Distinguished Service Award

Golf Canada announced that a trio of accomplished contributors – long-time volunteers Roger Beach of Oakville, Ont. and Brenda McIlwaine of Belvedere, P.E.I. along with media producer Jamie Reidel of Kitchener, Ont. – have been named the 2026 recipients of Golf Canada’s Distinguished Service Award for their tremendous contributions to Canadian golf. Click here for more.

Rob MacDonald and Michel St-Laurent appointed Honorary Life Governors

Rob MacDonald of Winnipeg, Man. and Michel St-Laurent of Longueuil, Que. received the organization’s highest volunteer honour as they were named Honorary Life Governors for their outstanding contributions to the organization. Click here for more.

Alena Sharp, Peter Broome, Pat Bradley and Lee Trevino named as 2026 inductees into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame

The Canadian Golf Hall of Fame announced on Tuesday that accomplished professional golfer Alena Sharp, global industry executive Peter Broome and former professional golfers Pat Bradley and Lee Trevino have been selected for 2026 induction into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame. Sharp will be inducted into the players category and Broome will be inducted into the Builder category, while Bradley and Trevino will be inducted into the new international category. The group becomes the 90th, 91st, 92nd and 93rd honoured members of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame. For more information, click here.

Golf Canada’s 2026 Annual Meeting was conducted virtually on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, with volunteers, staff, member clubs, and industry stakeholders participating.

Long-time Golf Canada contributors receive the organization’s highest volunteer honour

OAKVILLE, Ont. – Golf Canada is pleased to appoint Rob MacDonald and Michel St-Laurent as Honorary Life Governors for the outstanding contributions to the organization as long-time volunteers.

“On behalf of the Honorary Life Governors Selection Committee, we are proud to welcome two individuals whose contributions have made a lasting impact on both the game of golf and on Golf Canada,” said Roland Deveau, Chair, Honorary Life Governors Selection Panel. “Rob and Michel are truly deserving of this prestigious honour, and we thank them for their long-time commitment to the game and to Golf Canada.”

The appointment of an individual as an Honorary Life Governor is the highest honour which can be bestowed upon Golf Canada volunteers. All Past Presidents of Golf Canada including the former Canadian Ladies Golf Association are Honorary Life Governors.

In 2020, a change to Golf Canada’s by-laws permitted individuals who are not past presidents to be named as Honorary Life Governors. Since then, Golf Canada has welcomed Barb Allen and Jim Clark (2022), Mike Richards and Pat Thompson (2023), Doug Roxburgh (2024), and Diane Barabé, Robert Laing and Teri Yamada (2025) as Honorary Life Governors.

Honorary Life Governors have an individual vote at Golf Canada’s Annual and Special General Meetings. The selection panel will consider the overall service record of those nominated including local, regional, national, and international service with prime consideration for service to Golf Canada. In addition, length and level of service are also taken into consideration.

Rob MacDonald – Winnipeg, Man.

Rob MacDonald has been an active volunteer with Golf Canada since 2011 but his service to the game in Canada spans more than three decades at the club, provincial and national levels.

Following his appointment to the Governors’ Council in 2011, MacDonald joined Golf Canada and served on the Council until 2013, including Provincial Council which he Chaired in 2014 and 2015. MacDonald served on Golf Canada’s Board of Directors from 2014 to 2020 and played a key role in strengthening Golf Canada’s governance and financial oversight during his tenure. In addition, he served on the Audit & Risk Committee from 2013 to 2020 which included Chairing the Committee for five consecutive years (2016-2020). MacDonald also functioned as Chair of the Investment Committee in 2014 and 2015 and currently serves on the Nominating Committee, since 2023. His leadership has contributed to the long-term stewardship of Golf Canada’s financial assets.

MacDonald has been an active volunteer with Golf Manitoba since 1992. At the provincial level, he has served as President of the Manitoba Golf Association (2000-2001) and as President of Golf Manitoba (2011-2013). MacDonald is a long-time member of Elmhurst Golf & Country Club in Winnipeg, Man. where he has served as Club President, member of the Board of Directors as well as various committees with the Club.

Michel St-Laurent – Longueuil, Que.

For over 20 years, Michel St-Laurent held important governance roles for the former Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA) on its Board of Governors and Executive Committee along with Golf Canada’s Governors Council and Board of Directors.

St-Laurent has also functioned as Chair of the Amateur Status Committee (2006-2009), Treasurer (2008), and represented Canada on The R&A’s Amateur Status Committee (2008-2009), a committee which governs and sets the Rules of Amateur Status for the golf world. In addition to his extensive executive work, St-Laurent holds Canada’s highest referee certification and has officiated tournaments across provincial, national, and international levels for 35 years.

He has served as a volunteer at all levels of tournaments and as Chair of both national and international championships. He was Chair of both the Canadian Men’s and Women’s Amateur Championships when they celebrated their respective 100^th anniversary, both won by 15-year-olds – the 2004 Men’s Amateur at Beaconsfield Golf Club won by Darren Wallace and the 2013 Women’s Amateur at Club de golf Beloeil won by Brooke Henderson. St-Laurent also served as a Tournament Chair for both the 2011 CPKC Women’s Open at Hillsdale Golf Club and the 2014 RBC Canadian Open at Royal Montreal Golf Club.

St-Laurent has also served on Golf Quebec’s Board of Directors, including a term as President in 2001 and currently serves on the Selection Committee for the Quebec Golf Hall of Fame. St-Laurent served two terms as President at Beloeil Golf Club in Beloeil, Que. (1985-86 and 2004-05) and as Club Captain (2013-14). He currently volunteers at Club de Golf La Vallée du Richelieu in Sainte-Julie, Que. as men’s captain and continues to serve on the tournament duty roster for Golf Canada competitions.

The three recipients will be celebrated later this season
for their outstanding contributions to Canadian golf

Oakville, ON – Three accomplished contributors to Canadian golf will be acknowledged for their dedicated efforts to the game as the 2026 recipients of Golf Canada’s Distinguished Service Award. 

Long-time Golf Canada volunteers Roger Beach of Oakville, Ont., Brenda McIlwaine of Belvedere, P.E.I. and media producer Jamie Reidel of Kitchener, Ont. will be acknowledged for their contributions to Canadian golf.

“Golf Canada is proud to honour Roger Beach, Brenda McIlwaine and Jamie Reidel as our 2026 Distinguished Service Award recipients,” said Adam Daifallah, President, Golf Canada. “Their commitment and dedication to supporting our sport is truly impactful and is felt across our country. Their work continues to leave a remarkable impact on golf in Canada, and we are proud to honour and recognize them for their significant contributions.”

Golf Canada’s Distinguished Service Award has been presented annually since 1993 to recognize individuals who have had an outstanding impact on Canadian golf either nationally or within their community.

The announcement of the 2026 Distinguished Service Award honourees coincides with Golf Canada’s Annual General Meeting, conducted virtually on Wednesday, March 11 at 1:00 p.m. EDT.

The presentation of the Distinguished Service Award to this year’s honourees will be celebrated later this season at events and locations to be determined. 

Golf Canada 2025 Distinguished Service Award Honourees:

Roger Beach (Volunteer) – Oakville, Ont.

Roger Beach has been an instrumental contributor to Golf Canada Heritage Services since joining as a volunteer in 2015. His most notable contribution has been helping to restore, curate and digitize the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame, devoting one to two days a week over the past decade. He has also been a valued contributor in planning and executing external Hall of Fame events, including the annual Induction Ceremony. His commitment to volunteerism is also made evident in his creation of a database that incorporated the past 28 years of Golf Canada volunteers from across the country along with their related committee memberships. In addition to his work with Heritage Services, Beach has served on several Golf Canada standing committees including the Investment Committee (2017-2021), Human Resources Committee (2018-2020) and Governance Committee (2021-2024). In 2020, Beach was appointed a Governor of Golf Canada and was a member of the organization’s Diversity and Inclusion Alliance. He later joined the Audit and Risk Management committee in 2025. On leaving school, Beach joined the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), in St. Lucia which ultimately led to a 42+ year career with the bank that included posting to South America, other Caribbean islands and London, England. He was transferred to Toronto in 1985. Beach is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), Certified General Accountant (CGA) and a Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) and holds the internationally recognized Chartered Certified Accountant (FCCA) and Chartered Management Accountant (FCMA) professional accounting designations from the United Kingdom (UK). Beach is also the recipient of the Order of Niagara for his volunteer work and community outreach with St. Jude’s Anglican Church in Oakville, Ont.

Brenda McIlwaine (Volunteer) – Belvedere, P.E.I.

Brenda McIlwaine’s contributions as a volunteer to the growth of golf in Atlantic Canada have been exceptional and most impactful through her work in Handicap and Course Rating. McIlwaine has been an active volunteer and course rater with the Prince Edward Island Golf Association (PEIGA) since 2007. She was later invited to join the Association’s Board of Directors, serving as a Board member from 2008-2018, including two terms as President (2015-2017). In addition, she served as a member of Golf Canada’s Governors Council and the National Course Rating Committee. McIlwaine was a mentor to members of the PEIGA Course Rating team during her time on the Committee. She attended multiple national and regional training courses where she shared her valued knowledge and experience. McIlwaine has also been an avid supporter of advancement of the women’s game, coordinating the PEIGA Senior Ladies Tour from 2010-2017. While coordinating the tour, she also focused on promoting the sport for women and partnered with member courses to allow the tour to play across P.E.I. As a champion for women’s golf and development, she started the “Girls Golf Camp” in 2016. What initially started with one facility and 20 participants has now grown to multiple locations across the province. McIlwaine’s extensive volunteer resume has seen her serve on numerous committees over the years and her love for the sport has directly led to membership growth, particularly in female participation in her home province. In addition, McIlwaine served two terms as president of the women’s branch at Belvedere Golf Club in Charlottetown (2012-13 and 2025-26). Today, McIlwaine remains dedicated to her passion in handicapping and course rating and continues to support members and golf facilities within the PEIGA.

Jamie Reidel (Media) – Kitchener, Ont.

For more than 25 years, Jamie Reidel has been an influential force for golf coverage in Canada. Working as a lead producer with TSN/Bell Media, Reidel has played a pivotal role in bringing the game to life for Canadian audiences, delivering in-depth coverage of the sport’s biggest moments and its top players. Leading a team of talented hosts, reporters, camera operators and production staff, Reidel has shaped the way golf is covered and presented across a number of platforms including television, radio and social media. His work brings Canadians in-depth coverage of both the RBC Canadian Open and CPKC Women’s Open and golf’s most prestigious events, highlighted by TSN’s extensive coverage of The Masters, as well as The Players Championship, PGA Championship, U.S. Open and The Open Championship. Together with Hall of Fame broadcaster Bob Weeks, the duo has covered more than 100 golf championships for TSN/Bell Media. Beyond live event coverage, Reidel has produced thousands of reports for TSN SportsCentre and Golf Talk Canada ensuring Canadians stay informed about the game’s biggest names and stories. He has been instrumental in showcasing Canadian golf talent, providing coverage of legends like Mike Weir and Lorie Kane and today’s stars including Brooke Henderson, Nick Taylor, Corey Conners and many others. In addition to his extensive production work, Reidel has demonstrated a strong commitment and collaboration with Golf Canada. Whether producing or adjusting content to highlight Canadian success stories, Reidel has been a trusted partner dedicated to elevating the profile of Canadian golf. While his work is largely behind the scenes, his impact is undeniable and his contributions have profoundly shaped how golf is consumed in Canada.

Long-time Rules Official has played significant role in Rules Education
and referee mentorship for Golf Canada and Golf Quebec

OAKVILLE, Ont. – Golf Canada is pleased to announce that Nancy Layton of Ayer’s Cliff, Que. has been named as the 2025 recipient of the Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year award.

A dedicated advocate for the Rules of Golf, Layton is longtime volunteer with Golf Canada and Golf Quebec and currently serves as Chair of the Rules Education Subcommittee. Layton has contributed countless hours and is considered a mentor to many, both on a national and provincial level, through her work in the Rules of Golf.

“Nancy Layton’s exceptional work within the Rules of Golf as Subcommittee Chair, an instructor and as a Referee, makes her truly deserving of the prestigious Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Award,” said Adam Daifallah, President, Golf Canada. “Nancy is considered a mentor to many referees across Canada and her tireless work in Rules Education is appreciated and she is a wonderful representative of Golf Canada.”

The Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Award is named in recognition of Toronto native Bruce Mitchell who, in 2017-18, was the first Canadian to serve as captain of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (R&A). Born in Victoria, B.C. and raised in Edmonton, Alta., the former President of the Toronto Golf Club and R&A member since 1988 was just the ninth internationally appointed captain of The R&A, one of the most prestigious volunteer positions in the world of golf. Duties as captain included representing The R&A as a global ambassador and aiding in The R&A’s effort to develop golf around the world.

Now in its 20th year, candidates for the Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Award are put forth to Golf Canada for consideration by the respective provincial golf associations in acknowledgment of significant contributions to the game of golf in their community.

Nancy Layton

A longtime member of Dufferin Heights Golf Club, Nancy Layton of Ayer’s Cliff, Que. is a valued mentor to countless Referees in her home province of Quebec and across Canada.

In 2025, Layton became Chair of the Rules Education Subcommittee for Golf Canada, where she leads a group of volunteers who work alongside Golf Canada staff to ensure Level 2 and Level 3 Rules Education materials and seminars are organized, meet required standards and continue to evolve with the program.

In addition to her role as Chair, Layton instructed the Level 3 Rules Education Program in 2024 and 2025. She also instructed the 2025 Golf Canada Referee School and served as a mentor to new Referees in the 2025 Mentoring Program.

Along with her commitments in leading a national subcommittee and mentorship, Layton served on multiple duty rosters for Golf Canada’s Amateur Championships in 2025. Including serving as Tournament Rules Chair at the 111th Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship and the 2025 Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship. Layton also served as a Referee at the RBC Canadian Open Quebec Regional Qualifier, the inaugural Women’s Canadian Collegiate Invitational and the World Junior Girls Golf Championship last year. Layton has also represented Golf Canada as a Referee at the CPKC Women’s Open and the U.S. Women’s Open.

A lifelong learner, Layton consistently shares her knowledge, kind spirit and passion for the game with her colleagues at Golf Canada and Golf Quebec and fellow Referees across Canada.

Golf Canada will host its 2026 Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, March 11, utilizing a virtual format as the National Sport Federation looks ahead to the 2026 season.

The Annual Meeting brings together Golf Canada’s Board of Directors, staff, and volunteers as well as representatives from Canada’s provincial golf associations and other industry stakeholders.

The virtual meeting begins at 1:00 p.m. EDT and will include the release of the Association’s 2025 Annual Report & Financial Statements.

During the Annual Meeting, Golf Canada will introduce its 2026 Board of Directors led by Golf Canada President Adam Daifallah of Montreal, Que., who will enter his second year as president.

Click here to see Golf Canada’s (current) 2025 Board of Directors along with the three new (proposed) Board members brought forward by Golf Canada’s Nominating Committee for 2026.

Golf Canada will also celebrate outstanding contributions to the game of golf including a presentation of the 2025 Bruce Mitchell Volunteer of the Year Award and the appointment of new Honorary Life Governors. The Association will also announce the 2026 recipients of Golf Canada’s Distinguished Service Award.

To watch a live stream of Golf Canada’s Annual Meeting, click here.

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.