The strength of Golf Ontario lies in the people who volunteer their time to support and advance the game across the province. Through their leadership, expertise, and unwavering commitment, our volunteers help ensure the success of championships, course rating, rules education, and countless other programs. Each fall, during our Volunteer Appreciation Days we come together to celebrate these incredible individuals. During these celebrations, we honour milestone years of service and proudly present two of our highest volunteer accolades: the Volunteer of the Year Award and the Dick Grimm Distinguished Service Award.
Dick Grimm Distinguished Service Award
Named in honour of Richard H. Grimm, affectionately known as “Mr. Canadian Open,” the Dick Grimm Distinguished Service Award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, integrity, and long-term commitment to growing amateur golf in Ontario. The award celebrates volunteers whose lasting contributions have made a significant impact on the game and the golf community.
For more than 25 years, Barbara Allan has been a driving force behind Golf Ontario’s success and one of the organization’s most respected volunteers. Since joining Golf Ontario in 2001, she has made a lasting impact through her leadership and service to the game.
A former member of the Golf Ontario Board of Directors from 2001 to 2006, Barbara has played a crucial role in the Tournament Official Training Program. Through her work recruiting, training, and mentoring officials, she has helped shape the next generation of volunteers and strengthen Ontario’s officiating community.
Throughout each season, Barbara is a trusted presence at Golf Ontario and Golf Canada tournaments, championships, and qualifiers. Whether serving as a starter, scorer, referee, or volunteer coordinator, she approaches every assignment with professionalism, reliability, and enthusiasm.
As an active member of the Rules Committee and Feedback Subcommittee, Barbara continues to share valuable insight that enhances both volunteer development and the participant experience. Her lasting contributions to the game and unwavering dedication to Golf Ontario make her a most deserving recipient of the Dick Grimm Distinguished Service Award. Thank you, Barbara!
Volunteer of the Year Award
First presented in 2004, the Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes a Golf Ontario volunteer who has made an exceptional contribution over the past year. Recipients demonstrate leadership, dedication, and a commitment to promoting the growth of the game while supporting Golf Ontario’s programs and initiatives.
Since joining Golf Ontario’s Course Rating Program in 2012, Brennan Penney has played an integral role in maintaining the accuracy and integrity of course ratings throughout the Kingston region. As Team Leader, he is known for his professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication to the program.
Brennan approaches every rating assignment with enthusiasm and a desire to learn. Through his commitment to accuracy, proactive planning, and careful record keeping, he helps ensure courses within his region are properly monitored and prioritized for future rating schedules, contributing to a system relied upon by golfers across Ontario.
Beyond his technical expertise, Brennan is respected for his leadership and willingness to support fellow volunteers. He welcomes feedback, embraces new ideas, and consistently strives to strengthen the Course Rating Program for everyone involved.
Over the past 14 years, Brennan has made a significant contribution to Golf Ontario. His dedication, reliability, and passion for the game have helped ensure the ongoing success of the Course Rating Program. For his outstanding service and leadership, Brennan Penney is a most deserving recipient of Golf Ontario’s Volunteer of the Year Award.
Since becoming a nationally certified referee in 2010, Tony Ross has been a dedicated and valued member of Golf Ontario’s volunteer community. Over the past 16 years, he has contributed countless hours to championships and qualifying events, supporting Golf Ontario, Golf Canada, and the PGA of Canada with professionalism and enthusiasm.
Now one of Golf Ontario’s most active officials, Tony is recognized not only for his work on the course, but also for his commitment to sharing his knowledge with others. As a member of the Rules Committee, he is a trusted resource for players and volunteers, regularly supporting rules education through seminars, presentations, and mentorship opportunities.
Respected for his calm demeanor, expertise, and willingness to help others, Tony has earned the admiration of colleagues across the golf community. His longstanding dedication to the game and commitment to volunteer service make him a most deserving recipient of Golf Ontario’s Volunteer of the Year Award.
A Final Thank You
Golf Ontario is fortunate to be supported by a dedicated network of volunteers who give their time, knowledge, and passion to the game. From championships and officiating to course rating and governance, their contributions help create positive golf experiences across the province.
We extend our sincere congratulations to Barbara Allan, Brennan Penney, and Tony Ross on receiving these prestigious honours, and thank all of our volunteers for the commitment and enthusiasm they bring to Golf Ontario year after year!
Interested in becoming part of the Golf Ontario volunteer family? Find out more about the opportunities and rewards on our Volunteering Resource page HERE.
