Golf Ontario Announces 2026 Scholarship Recipients
Every year, the Golf Ontario Scholarship Program recognizes student-athletes who demonstrate excellence in the classroom and on the golf course.
Made possible through the generosity of donors and partners, the program supports young golfers as they pursue post-secondary education while continuing to excel in the game.
Golf Ontario honours the legacy of remarkable Ontarians through its named scholarship awards.
Scholarships awarded in honour of Ken McKenzie, Christine Fisher, Craig Revell, Helena Harbridge, Dave Mills, Bill Bath, Andrew Nicholls and the GO Junior Scholarship, alongside support from partners including Baka Communications, help create meaningful opportunities for the next generation of golfers in Ontario.
This year, Golf Ontario is proud to recognize 11 outstanding scholarship recipients whose achievements reflect a shared passion for the game and a commitment to excellence in both academics and athletics.
“This year’s recipients reflect the bright future of young golfers in Ontario.They have all demonstrated excellence both academically and athletically, while demonstrating the character and leadership qualities that will help shape their future on and off the course”, says Golf Ontario CEO, Kyle McFarlane. “Congratulations to all the recipients on this well-deserved achievement, and as you continue your educational and golfing journeys, never stop learning, growing, and pursuing your goals with passion!”
Full List of 2026 Scholarship Award Recipients:
Leighton Wright : Ken McKenzie Award
- Barrie Country Club
- University of British Columbia – Psychology & Management (fourth year)
Victoria Flavius : Christine Fisher Memorial Student Award
- Golf Ontario Players Club – York South
- University of Toronto – Business
Claire Roberts: Craig Revell Scholarship
- Whistle Bear Golf Club
- University of Tennessee Chattanooga – Sport Management & Marketing (first year)
Sonya Weerasinghe: Helena Harbridge Scholarship
- Golf Ontario Public Player
- University of Louisiana Monroe – Psychology (first year)
Kendrick Webster: Dave Mills Scholarship
- Black Bear Ridge Golf Club
- Queens University – Economics (fourth year)
Emily Watts: Dave Mills Scholarship
- Ladies’ Golf Club of Toronto
- Minot State University – Biomedical Sciences (first year)
Aidan Talent: Bill Bath Scholarship
- Oshawa Golf Club
- Manhattan University – Business Management (third year)
Grayson Carter: Andrew Nicholls Scholarship
- Whistle Bear Golf Club
- University of Nebraska Omaha – Business Finance
Nathaniel Yoo: GO Baka Mobile Scholarship
- Meadowbrook Golf Club
- Western University – Finance (second year)
Elliott Boyles: GO Baka Mobile Scholarship
- Idylwylde Golf and Country Club
- Western University – Biomedical Engineering
Jackson Murphy: GO Junior Scholarship
- Cataraqui Golf and Country Club
- University of British Columbia – Engineering (first year)
Supporting the Next Generation
The Golf Ontario Scholarship Program is part of Golf Ontario’s commitment to supporting the next generation of golfers beyond the course. For recipients, these awards provide more than financial assistance; they recognize the hard work, dedication, and balance required to pursue both academic and athletic goals.
Golf Ontario congratulates the 2026 scholarship recipients and wishes them continued success as they pursue their studies, their goals, and their passion for golf.
Celebrate a Life Shaped by Golf
Golf Ontario administers named scholarship awards in memory of remarkable Ontarians. Interested in an opportunity to honour the memory and legacy of your loved one? Golf Ontario is proud to support the establishment of memorial scholarships in memory of those who’s lives were shaped through golf, helping to ensure that their legacy continues to inspire future generations.
If you are looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the life and legacy of a loved one, Golf Ontario would be honoured to support the establishment of a memorial scholarship in their name. These scholarships help ensure that their impact lives on, inspiring and supporting future generations whose lives will be shaped through golf.
For more information please contact Mallory Dayman mdayman@golfontario.ca
About the Golf Ontario Scholarship Program
To be eligible for a Golf Ontario scholarship or award, applicants must meet the program’s academic requirements, be enrolled in a post-secondary institution, be a member of Golf Ontario, and be actively involved in golf.
For information about eligibility requirements and how to apply, visit the Golf Ontario Financial Assistance page.
Sarah Xing and Gerry Kou Leave Their Mark at Tangle Creek, securing Ontario U17 Championship Titles
Ontario’s young golf talent took front stage at Tangle Creek Golf Club this week, with the province’s top young players competing across three days at the 2026 Ontario U17 Championship.
While thunderstorms and weather delays added an extra challenge throughout the championship, the field persevered as Sarah Xing and Gerry Kou emerged as champions and captured their respective Ontario U17 titles.
U17 Girls
Sarah Xing of Maple Downs Golf & Country Club led the way from the opening round to capture the 2026 Ontario U17 Girls Championship.
Xing set the pace early with an opening round 73 and maintained her position at the top of the leaderboard throughout the championship, following with back to back rounds of 74. Her three round total of 221 (+5) earned her a one-shot victory over Kay Lynn Hoo.
Kay Lynn Hoo (Hamilton Golf & Country Club) stayed within striking distance to finish just one shot back in second at 222 (+6), while Mona Zhao (Station Creek Golf Club) rounded out the top three with a total of 225 (+9).
U17 Boys
The U17 Boys division saw plenty of movement on the leaderboard throughout the final round, with several players battling for position down the stretch at Tangle Creek Golf Club.
Gerry Kou of Summit Golf and Country Club came out on top, climbing two spots on the leaderboard during the final round to capture the 2026 Ontario U17 Boys Championship. Fresh off his Ontario U15 Championship victory at Erie Shores Golf & Country Club earlier in August, Kou carded rounds of 73, 71 and a final round 69 to finish at 213 (-3).
The championship remained close until the final holes, as Kou and Jett Metaxas of Hamilton Golf & Country Club were tied through 17. Kou’s three-under-par performance in the final round ultimately helped him pull ahead and secure the title by a single stroke.
Metaxas finished just one shot back in second place with a three-round total of 214 (-2), while Brennan Turner of Lookout Point Country Club rounded out the top three at 215 (-1).
Thank You
Golf Ontario extends its appreciation to Tangle Creek Golf Club for hosting an excellent 2026 Ontario U17 Championship. Tangle Creek provided an outstanding stage for Ontario’s top young golfers to compete!
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2026 Ontario Public Amateur Championship: Boyle and Surjoprajogo Claim Titles at Baxter Creek
After two days of competition, the 2026 Ontario Public Amateur Championship crowned its champions on September 1 at Baxter Creek Golf Club in Fraserville. Players from across the province competed over 36 holes, with champions crowned in the Low Gross Overall and Net Flight divisions.
Low Gross Overall Divisions
Men’s
Brad Boyle of Sunderland claimed the Men’s Low Gross Overall title after an impressive final round of 67. Following an opening round of 75, Boyle surged to a two-day total of 142 (-2) to secure the championship. Scott Herod (Cambridge) finished second at 146 (+2), while Nathan VanAsseldonk (Inverary) rounded out the top three with a total of 148 (+4).
Women’s
Elaine Surjoprajogo of Mississauga successfully defended her Women’s Low Gross Overall title, earning her second consecutive Ontario Public Amateur Championship victory. Surjoprajogo posted rounds of 72 and 80 for a two-day total of 152 (+8). Marlow Slatter (Belleville) finished second at 163 (+19), while Abigail Dove of Whitby placed third with a total of 165 (+21).
Net Flight Champions
Beyond the overall titles, champions were also crowned across the flighted net divisions. Boyle added another title to his championship, claiming the A Flight victory.
Siyuan Hu of Toronto captured the B Flight title with rounds of 73 and 87 for a two-day net total of 140 (-4).
The C Flight came down to a dramatic playoff, with Dean DiMarco, Steve Montpetit and Justin Troup finishing tied at 143 (-1). Steve Montpetit (Orillia) ultimately emerged victorious from the three-player playoff after posting rounds of 70 and 73.
On the women’s side, Surjoprajogo added the Women’s Net title to her championship, completing a successful couple of days at Baxter Creek.
Thank You to Baxter Creek Golf Club
Golf Ontario extends its thanks to Baxter Creek Golf Club for hosting the 2026 Ontario Public Amateur Championship. The course provided an excellent test for players throughout the championship, combining strategic shot-making challenges with outstanding playing conditions. The club’s commitment to hosting amateur golf helped create a memorable championship experience for competitors from across Ontario.
Photos, highlights and championship content: @thegolfontario on Instagram and Facebook.
Los Cabos Sweepstakes Has Begun
It’s time to get your scores in for a chance to win a trip for 2 to Los Cabos!
Between September 1st to 20th, Golf Ontario members can register for the Los Cabos Sweepstakes and earn one entry for every round they post on Score Centre during the contest period.
The more scores you post, the more chances you have to win!
Contest Details:
- Make sure to register prior to posting your scores on Score Centre as this will guarantee your entries to be counted.
- The contest will run from Tuesday September 1st to Sunday September 20th, 2026
- The contest will close on September 20th, 2026 at 11:59pm.
- The winner of the trip to Los Cabos will be selected on October 1st, 2026
This contest is eligible for Ontario residents only. Must be 19+ to participate.
Play your way to paradise with a trip for two to Los Cabos!
The top junior golfers take the spotlight at Tangle Creek for 2026 Ontario U17 Championship
Ontario’s next generation of golf stars will take the spotlight next week as the 2026 Ontario U17 Championship heads to Tangle Creek Golf Club in Barrie from August 31 to September 2.
The championship will bring together 93 of the province’s top U17 boys and girls for 54 holes of stroke play competition, with players earning their place in the field through qualifying events and exemption categories. As a key stop on Golf Ontario’s junior development pathway, the championship provides young athletes with an opportunity to compete against the province’s best while gaining valuable championship experience.
Tangle Creek Ready to Challenge the Field
Tangle Creek Golf Club provides a comprehensive test for players looking to compete at the highest level.
“Tangle Creek’s championship layout is designed to test every part of your game. The course features rolling fairways framed by natural fescue, strategically placed bunkers, and undulating greens that demand precision and creativity,” said Richard Edmonds, GM, Managing Partner, Tangle Creek Golf Club.
Tangle Creek has also been a valued Golf Ontario partner throughout its history, previously hosting the Ontario Junior Match Play Championship on four occasions, as well as the Ontario Men’s & Men’s Senior Match Play Championship and the Ontario Junior Boys Amateur Championship.
“We take great pride in maintaining a facility that reflects the best of Canadian golf, where competitive spirit meets community and respect for the game. Over the coming days, we hope you enjoy not only the competition but also the camaraderie, the scenery, and the spirit of the sport that brings us all together,” added Edmonds.
Notable Players to Watch
Girls:
- Riviera Lindholm: A notable name to watch in the girls’ field.
- Andrea Lai: 2026 Ontario Junior Girls’ Amateur champion and the highest-ranked U17 girl in the field on the Junior Golf Pathway rankings.
- Cocomi Wang: 2026 Ontario Junior Girls Match Play champion.
- Grace (HyunYi) Kim: 2026 Ontario U15 champion.
Boys:
- Gerry Kou: 2026 Ontario U15 champion.
- Joseph Totino: The Number 1 ranked U17 boy in the field on the Junior Golf Pathway rankings.
- Ethan Reid: 2026 Next Gen Atlantic champion.
- Bryce Burridge: 2026 Ontario Junior Boys Match Play champion.
Stay Connected
full tournament results & Leaderboards
For updates, highlights, and live scoring throughout the tournament, follow along @thegolfontario on Instagram, Facebook
2026 Ontario Public Amateur Championship Set for Baxter Creek Golf Club
The 2026 Ontario Public Amateur Championship is set to tee off Monday, August 31 at Baxter Creek Golf Club in Fraserville, bringing 120 players together for 36 holes of championship competition. Over two days, competitors will battle for the Ontario Public Amateur title and the chance to add their name to the championship’s history.
This championship is about more than competition, it celebrates the strength of Ontario’s public player program, bringing golfers from across the province together to compete at the provincial level while building connection and community through the game.
“The Ontario Public Amateur Championship plays an important role in Golf Ontario’s championship calendar, providing a premier competitive opportunity for golfers from Golf Ontario public member facilities”, says Tournament Director, Mason Cowan.
First Provincial Championship at Baxter Creek
The 2026 championship will mark Baxter Creek Golf Club’s first time hosting a provincial championship. The Fraserville course has been a longtime supporter of amateur golf in Ontario and has consistently partnered with Golf Ontario to host qualifying events.
“Baxter Creek Golf Club is an ideal host for the 2026 Ontario Public Amateur Championship because of its longstanding commitment to supporting amateur golf in Ontario and its consistent partnership with Golf Ontario,” said Tournament Director Mason Cowan. “Their dedication to the growth of the game aligns perfectly with the spirit of the Ontario Public Amateur Championship and its role in showcasing the province’s top public-course players.”
Baxter Creek’s team is also looking forward to welcoming the province’s top public-course players.
“We are very excited to host the 2026 Public Amateur Championship. To be able to prepare the course for some of the best amateur players in Ontario is a great honour,” said General Manager, Andrew Susands. “We are proud of the work our team, led by Superintendent Bobby Christie, have put in over the years to make our course what it is today.”
A Course That Will Test Every Part of the Game
While Baxter Creek may not be the longest course, its greens, strategic challenges and demanding finishing holes are expected to test the field throughout the championship.
“Baxter presents many challenges throughout both nines,” said General Manager Andrew Susands. “The greens are very difficult to read, and when they are ramped up for tournament conditions, are very fast.”
Susands expects the par 5s on the back nine to play a major role in determining the championship.
Players to Watch
The field features several past champions looking to add another Ontario Public Amateur title to their records.
Women:
- Elaine Surjoprajogo: 2025 champion and defending champion, champion of 2025 Women’s Four-Ball Championship.
- Jenna Power: 2024 champion.
Men:
- Kevin Holloway: 2020 champion.
- Peter Willis: 2014 champion.
Stay Connected
Full Tournament results and Leaderboards
For updates, highlights, and live scoring throughout the tournament, follow along @thegolfontario on Instagram, Facebook
Walk the Course with Axglo at the Ontario Public Amateur
Public golfers from across Ontario will take centre stage at the Ontario Public Amateur Championship, a 36-hole stroke-play event featuring competitors from public facilities and Golf Canada Public Player Programs.
For many golfers, walking remains an important part of the game — whether competing in a championship, playing a weekend round with friends or simply enjoying a favourite course.
As a partner of Golf Ontario, Axglo offers a range of push carts and electric carts designed to make walking the course easier and more convenient.
Experience Axglo On-Site
Axglo will be on-site throughout the Ontario Public Amateur Championship, giving competitors and guests an opportunity to see and test its lineup in person.
Stop by the Axglo activation to try a push cart, speak with the Axglo team and learn more about the different options available for golfers who prefer to walk the course.
Golf Ontario Member Benefit
Golf Ontario members receive exclusive savings at Axglo.ca:
GOLFONTARIO20 — 20% off push carts
GOLFONTARIO10 — 10% off electric carts
Golf Ontario Unveils 2027–2031 Strategic Plan: Golf for All — The Next Chapter
Golf Ontario has unveiled its 2027–2031 Strategic Plan, Golf for All — The Next Chapter, establishing a clear direction for the organization and its role in supporting the continued evolution of golf across the province.
Grounded in Golf Ontario’s vision of Golf for All and its mission to Positively Shape Lives by Connecting People to Golf Experiences, the plan reflects both where the sport is heading and how Golf Ontario will continue to lead, serve and collaborate with golfers, facilities, volunteers, athletes, partners and communities.
“Golf in Ontario is evolving—and so must we,” says Golf Ontario’s CEO Kyle McFarlane. “This plan provides a clear and balanced framework to grow our membership, expand opportunities and excellence across the sport, strengthen our financial foundation and build the organizational capacity required to lead with confidence. Most importantly, it reflects the perspectives of the people and organizations that make golf in Ontario possible.”
The plan was developed through extensive engagement with golfers, volunteers, facility operators, industry partners, staff, and Golf Ontario’s Board of Directors, with guidance from the organization’s Strategic Planning Workgroup.
At the centre of the plan are four strategic pillars and 12 supporting strategies:
Membership — Membership Growth
Facility Membership, Golfer Membership and Regional Support will guide Golf Ontario’s work to grow and strengthen its membership base while delivering meaningful value, connection and support throughout the province.
Sport — Expand Opportunities and Excellence
Participation, Junior Performance and Competitions will support welcoming entry points into golf, clearly defined athlete-development pathways and high-quality competitive experiences.
Financial Sustainability — Grow Income to Fuel Impact
Financial Strength, Fund Development and Corporate Partnerships will help build a resilient financial foundation that supports long-term sustainability and continued reinvestment in the sport.
Organizational Capacity — Operational Excellence
People, Governance and Systems will strengthen the organizational foundation needed to support the other pillars and position Golf Ontario for continued growth and innovation.
The four pillars are supported by five strategic enablers that will help connect and accelerate work across the organization: Technology and Data; Equity, Diversity and Inclusion; Marketing and Communications; Strategic Relationships; and Golf Ontario’s Execute, Resource, Promote and Celebrate model.
“This is more than a document—it is a blueprint for how Golf Ontario will make decisions, align resources and measure progress over the next five years,” says McFarlane. “We are excited to bring the plan to life alongside our members, facilities allies, volunteers, industry partners and golf communities across Ontario.”
The Strategic Plan will be translated into annual operational priorities, supported by defined measures, regular reporting and ongoing stakeholder involvement. Golf Ontario will also remain agile and prepared to respond transparently as new opportunities, risks and external factors emerge.
CLICK HERE to check out: Golf for All — The Next Chapter: Golf Ontario’s 2027–2031 Strategic Plan
GO x Toronto Police Service: Bringing Golf to the GTA Youth
Golf Ontario is proud to partner with the Toronto Police Service to bring more golf opportunities to youth in Toronto through the Golf Fore All program.
The partnership works alongside the TPS 12 Division Neighbourhood Community Officer Unit, whose mission is to build trust, strengthen relationships and create better communities within the local neighbourhoods they serve.
Community programming plays an important role in achieving that mission. With support from ProAction Cops & Kids and other community stakeholders, officers collaborate on initiatives that provide youth with opportunities to get involved in their communities and build positive relationships.
Programs offered through this unit include:
- ProAction Hockey League (PAHL)
- Baseball Buds
- Cook with a Cop
- Stone Soup
- Tennis Club
- Golf Fore All
Through Golf Fore All, Golf Ontario interns Matt McNamara and Owen Briggs travel to communities across the GTA to introduce youth to the game in a fun and accessible way. Participants take part in a variety of interactive games and activities that incorporate golf skills and fundamentals, creating a welcoming environment to learn, connect and have fun.
Toronto Police Service Officer Brandon Mak highlighted how these programs help officers connect with youth and strengthen relationships within the communities they serve.
“The youth that are participating in these programs are from marginalized communities and schools that either can’t afford or can’t provide extracurricular programming for the youth. Running these initiatives also help foster positive relationships with the youth”, Mak explains.
For Golf Ontario, the partnership reflects the organization’s commitment to creating more opportunities for youth to experience the game – ensuring more accessibility to golf across different communities in the province.
“Golf Fore All is about creating opportunities for youth to experience golf in an environment where they feel welcomed and supported,” said Madelyn Grossi, Participation Manager at Golf Ontario. “Working alongside the Toronto Police Serve allows us to reach young people who may not have otherwise to try the game. We hope their first experience with golf sparks an interest that stays with them for years to come.”
Through partnerships like Golf Fore All with the Toronto Police Service, Golf Ontario continues to shape lives through golf by breaking down barriers, creating meaningful community connections, and introducing more young people to golf.
John Monture & Cheryl Mitchell Add to their Championship Legacies at 2026 Indigenous Ontario Championship at MontHill
John Monture and Cheryl Mitchell added another chapter to their championship legacies as both players led wire to wire to claim the 2026 Indigenous Ontario Championship titles at MontHill Golf & Country Club.
Monture of Lower Mohawk / Six Nations captured his third Men’s Overall title, finishing with rounds of 69, 71 and 71 for a three-round total of 211 (-5).
After opening the championship with a 69, Monture maintained his position at the top of the leaderboard through all three rounds to secure his second consecutive title. He previously won the championship in 2022 and 2025.
Ky Horn of the Kahnawake Mohawks finished runner-up with a total score of 215 (-1), while Lucas Rogers placed third at 219 (+3).
On the women’s side, Cheryl Mitchell of Walpole Island First Nation continued her dominance, capturing her fifth Women’s Overall championship.
Mitchell also led all three rounds, opening with a 68 before carding rounds of 72 and 69 to finish at 209 (-7).
Matilda Gordon finished second at 227 (+11), while Savana Smith rounded out the podium in third at 228 (+12).
Net Stableford Champions
Terry Martin of Lower Mohawk claimed the Men’s Net Stableford title with 76 total Stableford points over two rounds.
Matilda Gordon of Tuscarora – Six Nations also added another title to her week, winning the Women’s Net Stableford division with 77 total Stableford points over two rounds.
Junior & Senior Champions
After two rounds of competition, Braxton Fleguel of Maniwaki claimed the Junior Boys title with a score of 165 (+21).
Gordon continued her strong championship with a win in the Junior Girls division, finishing at 147 (+3) after two rounds.
In the Senior Men’s division, Martin claimed another title, finishing at 152 (+8), while Kathy Jamieson of Six Nations won the Senior Women’s division with a two-round total of 175 (+31).
The 2026 Indigenous Ontario Championship brought together 144 players for three days of competition at MontHill Golf & Country Club, celebrating the fifth anniversary of the championship and showcasing the talent of Indigenous golfers from across the province.
These remarkable performances made this year’s championship an unforgettable week at MontHill.
Golf Ontario would like to extend its sincere gratitude to the volunteers, officials and staff at MontHill Golf & Country Club for their exceptional support and hospitality throughout the week. Their contributions were instrumental in delivering a memorable championship experience for all participants.
Stay Connected
For updates, highlights, and live scoring throughout the tournament, follow along @thegolfontario on Instagram, Facebook.