HUMANS OF CANADIAN GOLF

In honour of Remembrance Day, we feature Mike Carver and Emeritus Golf. Emertius Golf honours the values of service, camaraderie, and resilience — on and off the course. Founded by veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces, our organization connects veterans, still-serving members, first responders, and their families through the game of golf.

We know that transition and recovery can be deeply challenging — whether it’s adjusting to life after service, managing the invisible impacts of trauma, or rebuilding community and identity. Golf offers something powerful: calm, connection, and purpose. It becomes a place to focus on the present, find peace in the outdoors, and share quiet understanding with others who’ve walked similar paths.

“As we pause this Remembrance Day to honour those who served and those who continue to serve, we’re reminded that the bonds of service extend beyond the uniform. On the golf course, those bonds are renewed — through laughter, shared stories, and the healing power of peer support.”

– Emeritus Golf

What role has golf played in your life, and how has it shaped who you are today?

For our members, golf is a bridge reconnecting us to each other and to ourselves. It provides structure, mindfulness, and belonging. The sport has become a tool for mental wellness, helping members find balance and peace, one round at a time.

Can you share a memorable moment on the course that still makes you smile (or cry)?

Every tournament brings moments of connection and healing! A veteran smiling after their first swing in years, a first responder finally finding a calm day away from stress, or a member quietly saying, “I needed this.” Those moments remind us why this sport and this work matter.

What’s one lesson golf has taught you that you carry into everyday life?

Golf teaches patience, humility, and perspective. Like recovery and transition, it’s about showing up, adapting, and giving yourself grace when things don’t go as planned. Each round reminds us that progress happens one swing at a time.

If you could describe golf in Canada in one word or phrase, what would it be and why?

Resilient. Canada’s golf season is short and the weather unpredictable, but Canadians make every good day count. We take advantage of every chance to get outside, connect, and play. That determination mirrors the resilience of those who serve — making the most of every opportunity, no matter the conditions.

What’s one thing you wish more people knew about the golf community in Canada?

That golf is a place of belonging. Across Canada, people are using the game to promote mental health, inclusion, and peer support. It’s not just about competition — it’s about connection, understanding, and shared healing.

Why would you recommend either getting into (playing) or working in the golf industry?

Because golf has the power to change lives. Whether you’re new to the sport or part of the industry, it offers community, purpose, and peace. For many of us, golf isn’t just a pastime — it’s part of our recovery, our resilience, and our renewed sense of service.

Our September Human of Canadian Golf was none other than dedicated Canadian Golf volunteer, Barbara Allan.

A Kingston native, she has long served on several of Golf Canada’s committees, including as Chair of the Amateur Competitions Committee, and was honoured with Golf Canada’s Distinguished Service Award in 2014. In 2016, she was inducted into the Kingston & District Sports Hall of Fame in the “Builder” Category. From announcing groups at the tee to hosting Opening Ceremonies and Trophy Presentations, Barbara’s voice is a constant presence at Amateur Championships across the country.

“One lesson golf has taught me is the importance of staying calm and focused, even when things don’t go as planned. It’s a reminder that how you respond to challenges matters more than the setback itself—something I carry with me in everyday life.”

– Barbara Allan

What role has golf played in your life, and how has it shaped who you are today?

Golf has enriched my life in two ways: playing the game and in working as a volunteer for both Golf Ontario and Golf Canada for over 30 years. Golf has played a significant role in my life by teaching me patience, discipline, and has given me the opportunity to meet so many interesting people along the way. The challenges of playing the game have helped me develop a strong mental focus and the ability to stay calm under pressure. It has also provided opportunities to build meaningful relationships and learn valuable lessons in sportsmanship and integrity, all of which have shaped my character both on and off the course.

Can you share a memorable moment on the course that still makes you smile (or cry)?

While there isn’t one particular moment that stands out, some of the most meaningful and memorable experiences for me have been when players I’ve had the honour of Starting/Scoring &/or refereeing for since they were young come up to me at events and thank me for my support over the years. Seeing their growth and knowing I’ve played a small part in their journey is incredibly rewarding—it always brings a smile to my face and reminds me why I love being involved in the game.

What’s one lesson golf has taught you that you carry into everyday life?

One lesson golf has taught me is the importance of staying calm and focused, even when things don’t go as planned. It’s a reminder that how you respond to challenges matters more than the setback itself—something I carry with me in everyday life.

If you could describe golf in Canada in one word or phrase, what would it be and why?

I would describe golf in Canada as “passion driven.” Despite a shorter season, Canadian golfers make the most of every round, showing true dedication to the game, a desire to always improve and at many courses, wanting to be part of a community that shares the same desires.

What’s one thing you wish more people knew about the golf community in Canada?

One thing I wish more people knew is how diverse the Canadian golf community truly is — from juniors to seniors, newcomers to lifelong players, there’s a real spirit of inclusion, camaraderie, and passion that extends well beyond the fairways.

For the month of August, we are featuring Destiny Whitney, an Indigenous-Canadian Class A LPGA Professional and passionate advocate for Indigenous representation in golf.

After competing actively in her youth and nearly reaching the tour level, Whitney shifted her focus to the business side of golf, driven by her passion to help others begin their own journey in the sport.

“Golf saved me in more ways than I can explain. It gave me mentors, it gave me quiet, and it gave me strength. Golf teaches more than discipline and patience, it teaches connection.”

– Destiny Whitney

What role has golf played in your life, and how has it shaped who you are today?

Golf saved me in more ways than I can explain. It gave me mentors, it gave me quiet, and it gave me strength. Golf teaches more than discipline and patience, it teaches connection. 

Can you share a memorable moment on the course that still makes you smile (or cry)?

Being a member at the Redwood Golf Club is truly healing, the members have seen me grow from a 14 year old, to motherhood,  I am so amazed by their added support and confidence in me as a player. Recently the members asked me to finally hit my driver,  I sent it just inside 200 yards then hit my 4 hybrid on in 2, missed my eagle putt and tapped in my birdie putt,  they were like great hole, then on 18 I drove it over the corner, to 50 yards out, they were so impressed they shared you can join us anytime. I’m amazed at my resilience to keep fighting the fight with golf, then to be rewarded by those who know how hard this game could be.

What’s one lesson golf has taught you that you carry into everyday life?

Constant perseverance in life, take the good with the bad, and its that 1 shot or moment is all you need, THE FLUSH!! Then back to chasing that feeling.

If you could describe golf in Canada in one word or phrase, what would it be and why?

Fairways to Wellness.

What’s one thing you wish more people knew about the golf community in Canada?

Join a club or league so that more people can feel that sense of belonging when they need it most, golf offers support, and healing to the communities that raised me.

In July, we celebrate the contributions of Lindsay Knowlton – Founder & CEO of Iron Lady Golf. Since its launch in 2011, Iron Lady has grown into a nationwide community for Canadian women golfers, offering clinics, leagues, and group retreats to golf destinations around the world.

Before Iron Lady, Lindsay was a three-year member of Canada’s National Golf Team and earned All-American honours while playing collegiately at Ohio State University.

“One of the greatest lessons golf has taught me is the value of meaningful connection. There’s something about the game—spending a few hours walking and talking—that creates space for real conversation and unexpected relationships.”

– Lindsay Knowlton

What role has golf played in your life, and how has it shaped who you are today?

Golf has been a constant thread throughout my life—shaping not just my career, but who I am as a person. I played competitively from a young age, earning a golf scholarship to Ohio State and later representing Canada as a member of the National Team. The game taught me resilience, discipline, confidence, and humility—lessons that extended far beyond the course. But golf has also shown me where the game falls short, especially when it comes to access and inclusivity for women. That realization is what inspired me to create Iron Lady Golf—to build the kind of experience I wish existed when I was first starting out. Today, golf continues to be my passion and my purpose. It’s where I find connection, challenge, and joy—and it’s the platform through which I hope to empower more women to experience those same things.

Can you share a memorable moment on the course that still makes you smile (or cry)?

One of the most meaningful moments of my life was winning the Ontario Amateur with my dad as my caddie. We had shared the game for as long as I can remember, and having him by my side that week made it incredibly special. It wasn’t just about the win—it was about all the years that led up to it and the way he always supported me. Before every tournament, he’d hand me a lucky penny to keep in my pocket—a small gesture that meant a lot. When he became sick later in life, we continued to share golf in whatever way we could. It kept us connected, even in the hardest moments. I named my daughter Penny in his honour. The game continues to mean so much to me—not just professionally, but personally. It’s tied to family, memory, and a sense of home.

What’s one lesson golf has taught you that you carry into everyday life?

One of the greatest lessons golf has taught me is the value of meaningful connection. There’s something about the game—spending a few hours walking and talking—that creates space for real conversation and unexpected relationships. Some of the most important people in my life, both personally and professionally, I’ve met through golf. It’s a reminder that the game is just the starting point—it’s the people you meet along the way that make it truly special.

If you could describe golf in Canada in one word or phrase, what would it be and why?

I would describe golf in Canada as “community-powered.” Despite our short season, Canadians show up for the game in a big way—on local courses, at leagues, through junior programs, and at major events. It’s not just about individual play; it’s about people coming together to share the experience. There’s a real sense of belonging and pride in the golf communities across this country, and that’s what makes the game here so special.

What’s one thing you wish more people knew about the golf community in Canada?

I wish more people knew just how welcoming and supportive the golf community in Canada can be—especially when you find the right environment. There’s a perception that golf is exclusive or intimidating, but across the country, there are so many people and programs working to change that. Through Iron Lady Golf, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it can be when women are given a space to learn, play, and connect on their own terms. When that happens, golf becomes so much more than a game—it becomes a community.

Why would you recommend either getting into (playing) or working in the golf industry?

I would recommend getting into golf—whether playing or working in the industry—because it opens doors you didn’t even know existed. Playing the game teaches patience, confidence, and connection, and working in the industry allows you to be part of something bigger: a sport that’s evolving and becoming more inclusive. There’s so much opportunity to shape the future of golf, especially in Canada. Whether you’re on the course, behind the scenes, or building something new, it’s an industry where passion, purpose, and community come together in a really meaningful way.

June’s feature highlighted Todd Keirstead — a golf entertainer and swing specialist who has worked with players ranging from beginners to high-profile tour professionals. Beyond coaching, Todd is a skin cancer survivor and a passionate advocate for Skin Cancer Awareness within the golfing community.

“Golf has been one of life’s greatest teachers, instilling in me a profound understanding of perseverance and the importance of adaptability. Whether it’s a tough lie on the course or a setback in life, it’s not the obstacles that define you, it’s how you respond to them.”

-Todd Keirstead

What role has golf played in your life, and how has it shaped who you are today?

Golf has been at the heart of my life since I was a child, a passion I inherited from my father. It brought us together, teaching me discipline, creativity, and resilience. Over the years, golf became more than a sport, it became a platform for me to inspire others, whether through traveling the world helping raise millions of dollars for various charities through instructional entertainment, or my work with adaptive golf, the game has shaped me into someone who values inclusion, perseverance, and the joy of bringing people together, regardless of their abilities.

Can you share a memorable moment on the course that still makes you smile (or cry)?

One of the most powerful moments in my career was witnessing Ryan Straschnitzki, a survivor of the Humboldt Broncos tragedy, who is paralyzed from the chest down, playing golf for the first time after the accident. After working with him for about ten minutes, Ryan was not only connecting with the ball but doing so with determination and a smile that said everything. Watching him experience that sense of control, joy, and accomplishment was profoundly moving. It wasn’t just about hitting a golf ball, it was about resilience, confidence, and reclaiming a piece of himself. Moments like that are exactly why I’m so passionate about what I do. Golf, at its best, is a powerful tool for healing, hope, and human connection.

What’s one lesson golf has taught you that you carry into everyday life?

Golf has been one of life’s greatest teachers, instilling in me a profound understanding of perseverance and the importance of adaptability. Whether it’s a tough lie on the course or a setback in life, it’s not the obstacles that define you, it’s how you respond to them. You learn to pause, assess, adjust your stance, and take your next swing with conviction. That mindset has served me well far beyond the fairways. My personal journey, from surviving a near-death experience to confronting and overcoming aggressive, invasive skin cancer, it has put that lesson to the ultimate test.

What’s one thing you wish more people knew about the golf community in Canada?

I wish more people realized how much the Canadian golf community values giving back and lifting each other up. It’s not just about competition, it is about supporting local charities, organizing inclusive events, and creating opportunities for everyone, including adaptive golfers, to participate and shine. Whether it’s rallying around a cause, welcoming newcomers, or celebrating each other’s achievements, the spirit of generosity and encouragement runs deep. That sense of unity and purpose is what makes the Canadian golf community truly remarkable.

Why would you recommend either getting into (playing) or working in the golf industry?

Golf has an extraordinary power to change lives, and I’ve been fortunate to witness that transformation time and time again, both in others and in myself. Being part of this industry has opened doors I never could have imagined. It has allowed me to connect deeply with people from all walks of life, travel to incredible destinations across the globe, and use the game as a platform to inspire, entertain, and uplift. Be it teaching a beginner to hit their first solid shot, performing trick shots that ignite joy and laughter, or helping someone rediscover their confidence and love for the game after hardship, every moment on the course has the potential to make a meaningful impact. Golf isn’t just a profession for me, it’s a calling, a community, and a way to give back. It has shaped who I am, and I genuinely can’t imagine a more rewarding path.

In May, we feature the infamous Ontario Boys – a group of three Guelph University varsity golfers whose quest from southern Ontario to the Players Championship captured the attention of the golf world. From being interviewed at a TGL Playoff Match, to eventually scoring an invite to The Masters, the Boys have had quite the spring.

“Corey Conners grew up an hour from Guelph University, where we go to school, so I’ve always looked up to him as a role model. When he invited us to attend the Masters, I was in shock. We followed him around the Tuesday practice round, and on hole #12, he invited us over to take a picture with Mike Weir, Taylor Pendrith, and Nick Taylor. I couldn’t stop smiling the rest of the day.”

– The Ontario Boys

What role has golf played in your life, and how has it shaped who you are today?

Caleb: Golf has been a constant in my life and has helped to shape the person I am today. It’s taught me many life lessons, including discipline, patience, and how to stay composed under pressure. The countless hours I’ve spent on the range have also given me a strong work ethic that I know I can translate to later in life. I believe the most important thing golf has given me is a sense of community. From teammates to mentors, some of the most influential people in my life I have met from golf.

Beck: Golf has played a huge role in my life, I started when I was around 10 years old and fell in love with it ever since, I know teach golf for youth and adult golfers trying to help there game just like others helped mine!!

Liam: Golf has played a significant role in my life, shaping me both personally and professionally. It’s been a major passion of mine for as long as I can remember I’ve had the privilege of playing university golf for the University of Guelph, which has been an incredible experience. I have also taught golf during my summers which has allowed me to develop a lot of great skills. Golf has also provided some amazing moments of fun with friends and family, influencing who I am today in numerous positive ways.

Can you share a memorable moment on the course that still makes you smile (or cry)?

Caleb: Corey Conners grew up an hour from Guelph University, where I go to school, so I’ve always looked up to him as a role model. When he invited us to attend the Masters, I was in shock. We followed him around the Tuesday practice round, and on hole 12, he invited us over to take a picture with Mike Weir, Taylor Pendrith, and Nick Taylor. I couldn’t stop smiling the rest of the day.

Beck: When I holed out on #18 to make the U19 Ontario Championship.

Liam: A memorable moment for me would be when my brother got an albatross. It was me, my brother and my dad all playing together which is what made it so special. The pure excitement we shared will be a memory for a life time.

What’s one lesson golf has taught you that you carry into everyday life?

Caleb: The main lesson that golf has taught me is patience. As much as you want to play perfectly, that will never happen. Whether you miss a short putt or get an unlucky bounce how you recover from that can be taken into everyday life.

Beck: Golf has taught me that although there are many negatives the positives are what push you forward to make you better. Never give up and keep grinding!!

Liam: To be resilient. Golf is a very challenging sport and is constantly testing you mentally. I feel like golf really matured me at a young age and taught me to never give up. There will be times of where you are down on yourself both on and off the golf course, but staying positive through those moments will lead to success.

If you could describe golf in Canada in one word or phrase, what would it be and why?

Caleb: “Addicting” the short season in Canada just makes you appreciate it that much more.

Beck: Inspirational.

Liam: Pure excitement. Golf is such a special and unique game. What’s unique about golf in Canada, is that you can only really play 6 months a year. Only getting to play for half the year really allows for me to appreciate the time I spend on the course, and in the winter I am excited for the upcoming golf season.

What’s one thing you wish more people knew about the golf community in Canada?

Caleb: Canadians take a lot of pride in how well our golfers do on the big stage, and we love celebrating their wins.

Beck: How supportive everybody in the Golf Canada community is, they only want the best for all there golfers!!

Liam: The passion and love for the game that we all share. It is really such a special community to be a part of.

Why would you recommend either getting into (playing) or working in the golf industry?

Caleb: Golf teaches you lessons that you use for the rest of your life. Once you start, the chase of constant growth is addicting and instills a strong work ethic.

Beck: If you are a golf lover, golf Canada is the place to be. They offer many events where you can showcase your talent and if you’re not into the tournament atmosphere then working for them is also a great experience in itself!!

Liam: I would recommend it because the golf community is so special. Once you fall in love with golf you are in it for life. It is so fun to be around people who share the same love for the game as you do.

In April, we featured Shelly Stouffer from Nanoose Bay, B.C. Shelly is a highly decorated Canadian amateur golfer who, among other distinctions, captured the 2024 Canadian Women’s Mid-Amateur and the 2022 U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur titles.

“The golf community is vast, and I have been fortunate to have played golf from coast to coast.  The people I have met through golf are very friendly and have opened their homes to me when I have travelled to their area.”

-Shelly Stouffer

What role has golf played in your life, and how has it shaped who you are today?

Golf has allowed me to keep playing sports competitively and allowed me to travel the world. Through golf I have met and played with some legends of the game. I have also been fortunate to work as a kinesiologist and offer golf fitness classes that has been helping my clients play better golf and the ability to play golf longer as they age.

If you could describe golf in Canada in one word or phrase, what would it be and why?

Golf in Canada is accessible, there are many different types of courses around where I live from private clubs to par 3 and executive courses that cater to all type of abilities.

What’s one thing you wish more people knew about the golf community in Canada?

Generally golfers are always looking to help each other out.  The golf community is vast, and I have been fortunate to have played golf from coast to coast.  The people I have met through golf are very friendly and have opened their homes to me when I have travelled to their area.  I have to add that I have had some of the same experiences travelling throughout the US when I was playing on the Future’s tour as well.

Why would you recommend either getting into (playing) or working in the golf industry?

You can see the world and play some amazing golf courses and meet amazing people that can turn into your best friends. It is a fantastic sport!

In March, we featured Chesterville, Ontario’s Kurtis Barkley. Kurtis is a professional all abilities player, currently on the G4D Tour as part of the DP World Tour’s competitive schedule and is Canada’s top-ranked all abilities golfer.

Playing golf for over 30 years i have a few memories…the first time Mom meeting Rory (McIlroy) in Dubai , having the crowd yelling my name in Australia. I have many moments—I love growing the game.

– Kurtis Barkeley – G4D Tour (DP World Tour)

What role has golf played in your life, and how has it shaped who you are today?

Golf has always been apart my life, as a young boy my father knew i was going to be able to play physical compact sports. Golf can teach you many things:

• • Work put in is work put out

• • Great shots ending up in bad spots, and bad shots getting better then expected results

• • Work ethic

• • Being on time

• • Following the rules and being a great sportsman along the way

Can you share a memorable moment on the course that still makes you smile (or cry)?

Playing golf for over 30 years i have a few: Playing in Australia in 2019 when Disability Golf wasn’t as big as it is now, winning the Ottawa Valley Golf Association’s city and district (titles) while my Dad watched on the sidelines—the 1st time Mom meeting Rory (McIlroy) in Dubai, having the crowd yelling my name in Australia. I have many moments i love growing the game.

What’s one lesson golf has taught you that you carry into everyday life?

Each day brings opportunities, its up to you what you do with them. Live for today tomorrow is never promised enjoy the moment as thats all we really have.

If you could describe golf in Canada in one word or phrase, what would it be and why?

Short and sweet – golf season isn’t the longest in Canada but its sweet when its here!

What’s one thing you wish more people knew about the golf community in Canada?

From my experience, no we dont play golf in the snow, lol.

Why would you recommend either getting into (playing) or working in the golf industry?

Golf is kinda a way of life , either playing in competition or just for social its great way to get outdoors and enjoy this beautiful world , working in and around the golf industry is it really (work) when you get to enjoy it this much!