A New Look for the Golf For All Fund
Golf Ontario is proud to introduce a new visual identity for the Golf For All Fund—one that reflects both the purpose of the fund and its role in shaping a more inclusive future for the game across the province.
A Symbol of Growth, Connection, and Opportunity
At the heart of the new identity is the maple key—a symbol that represents growth, movement, and the intentional spread of opportunity.
Often seen spinning and travelling before taking root, the maple key reflects how the game can reach new communities, create new pathways, and grow in ways that are both natural and purposeful.
More than a symbol of growth, the maple key represents structure and connection—how the Golf For All Fund is designed to unlock access, remove barriers, and create lasting impact across Ontario.
It also builds on Golf Ontario’s identity. While the association is represented by the maple leaf, the maple key offers a forward-looking evolution—one that connects heritage with the future of the game.
The Golf For All Fund maple key logo:
- Symbolizes growth, movement, and new beginnings
- Represents access, connection, and opportunity
- Builds on Golf Ontario’s maple leaf heritage in a modern, future-focused way
- Creates a distinct identity for philanthropy and community impact
Designed with Purpose
“Our goal was to create a mark that feels connected to our identity, while clearly representing the future of the game,” says Golf Ontario Manager of Brand and Communications, Greg Mitchell. “The maple key gave us a unique way to symbolize growth and new beginnings, while staying rooted in something that is unmistakably Ontario.”
Supporting the Future of the Game
At its core, the Golf For All Fund is about lasting impact—creating sustainable funding that expands participation and opens doors for those who have historically faced barriers to entry.
Whether driven by a passion for golf, youth development, community inclusion, or legacy building, the fund provides a meaningful way to invest in the future of the game—supported by strong governance and thoughtful stewardship.
“This new identity helps bring the purpose of the Golf For All Fund to life,” says Director of Events and Fund Development, Mallory Dayman. “It represents the impact we’re working to make—creating opportunities for more people to experience the game and building a more inclusive future for golf across Ontario.”
The new identity will be featured across all Golf For All Fund initiatives, strengthening awareness and connection to a shared mission of growing the game for all.
Bringing the Fund to Life
In the months ahead, the Golf For All Fund will come to life through a series of initiatives designed to bring the golf community together in support of a shared goal: growing the game for all.
This includes the introduction of the Golf For All Trustee Program, alongside a slate of philanthropic events and experiences that will create meaningful opportunities for partners, donors, and participants to get involved.
More details will be shared in the coming weeks.
Golf Ontario Hiring Chief Sport Officer
Golf Ontario is seeking a Chief Sport Officer (CSO) to help shape the future of golf across the province.
This senior leadership role will oversee participation, junior performance, and competitions — driving the continued growth of the game through a modern, inclusive sport system.
From expanding participation opportunities to strengthening high-performance pathways and elevating championships, the CSO will play a key role in delivering on Golf Ontario’s Golf for All vision.
This is a full-time, hybrid role based in Uxbridge, with travel across Ontario.
Applications close April 17, 2026
Did you know you can start your own Golf Club, Group or Golf Society?
Forming your own golf club with Golf Ontario is an easy and rewarding way to bring golfers together and elevate your playing experience.
By creating a club, group, or golf society, you gain access to:
- An official Handicap Index for all members—making it easy to track your game and add a layer of friendly competition
- The ability to schedule your own events, establish your own culture, and build a community that fits your group’s interests—whether competitive, social, or casual
- The opportunity to list your events on the Ontario Golf Events Hub
As a recognized Golf Ontario club, you’ll also receive support, resources, and guidance to help you run events smoothly and confidently. Members benefit from scoring tools, digital recordkeeping, and the added value and protection of a Golf Ontario / Golf Canada membership.
Starting a club is simple, flexible, and designed to fit the way you and your group already play.
To register your club or learn more, visit HERE.
Here are a few great examples of golfer-led clubs and communities across Ontario:
Local Legends Golf
Local Legends Golf is a standout example of how Ontario golfers can build meaningful communities without owning a course.
As a premier two-man amateur match play tournament, Local Legends brings players together through region-based brackets, flexible scheduling, and a fun, competitive format that runs throughout the summer. Golfers compete locally for a chance to advance to the finals—an all-inclusive championship experience in Los Cabos, Mexico.
Local Legends embodies what’s possible when passionate players come together: connection, competition, and unforgettable golf experiences.
LPGA Amateurs – Greater Toronto Chapter
The LPGA Amateurs – Greater Toronto Chapter is a thriving, volunteer-driven golf community that highlights how golfers can create their own club experience.
Serving women across the GTA—including Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan, Markham, and Oakville—the chapter offers organized leagues, learning opportunities, and inclusive events for golfers of all skill levels.
As part of a global network of 120+ chapters, members enjoy a supportive environment focused on connection, confidence, and growing the game.
chapters.lpgaamateurs.com/home/chapter/ONGT
Canadian Caribbean Amateur Golfers Association (CCAGA)
The CCAGA is a long-standing and vibrant community that showcases the power of culture, connection, and shared passion for the game.
Founded in the early 1980s and formalized in 2002, the association brings together Caribbean-Canadian golfers through weekly competitions, skill-building events, and a welcoming environment rooted in camaraderie.
Through tournaments, charity events, and a 20-week season, CCAGA demonstrates how meaningful golf experiences can be built entirely by the community itself.
Bogey Golfers Association (BGA)
The Bogey Golfers Association (BGA) is one of Ontario’s fastest-growing golfer-led communities.
Founded in 2018 with just eight golfers, BGA has grown into a 300-member league supported by more than 30 partners. With 14 events each season, BGA delivers a tour-style experience at top courses across the GTA.
Built on a foundation of fun, competition, and community, BGA proves what’s possible when golfers take the lead.
Meet Golf Ontario’s Women’s Golf Partners
Meet the Golf Ontario Women’s golf partners, Iron Lady Golf, and the LPGA Amateurs. Both offer welcoming communities for women, looking to be more involved with the sport of golf. Check out who they are, and what they offer below!
Iron Lady Golf
Stay sharp with Lindsay Knowlton’s, Virtual Session Full Swing Tune Up on Thursday April 9 at 7:30pm.
Get your full swing dialled in and feel ready for the outdoor season. This complimentary virtual class will focus on practical full swing tips and key fundamentals to help you feel more confident, consistent and prepared as the season begins.
Spots are limited, reserve yours soon.
The LPGA Amateurs
The LPGA Amateurs is a vibrant and inclusive golf community where women of all skill levels come together to Connect, Learn, Play, and Belong. Whether you’re picking up a club for the first time or looking to build your community of golfing friends, our welcoming environment offers something for everyone.
Members enjoy exceptional perks plus a rich variety of experiences, including organized outdoor and indoor leagues, skill-building clinics, and exciting tournaments for those who love a little friendly competition. Beyond the course, the community comes alive through social gatherings and networking events that foster lasting friendships and meaningful connections. Membership gives you access to connect and play with any of the 130+ Chapters worldwide.
With eight chapters across Southwestern Ontario, the LPGA Amateurs provide weekly leagues are designed with flexibility in mind, offering a convenient “pay-as-you-play” format where rounds and foursomes are thoughtfully organized for you.
Whether you’re here for fun, fitness, friendship, or competition, the LPGA Amateurs is more than just golf—it’s a community where you truly belong.
The Tee Sheet
The Tee Sheet is a free weekly email newsletter created for the modern Ontario golfer—the casual, recreational player who loves the game but may not belong to a traditional golf club.
Published once per week, The Tee Sheet curates the most interesting and relevant golf content for Ontario players. Inspired by the format and tone of the modern digital newsletter, it delivers a quick, engaging roundup of golf stories, local course news, industry trends, gear highlights, partner offers and Ontario golf updates.
Beyond content, Tee Sheet subscribers will receive contests, special offers and invitations to events.
In simple terms, The Tee Sheet is designed to become the weekly golf briefing for Ontario golfers—keeping them informed, entertained, and connected to the game.
To get exclusive deals and intel on Ontario’s best courses—tailored to your game.
Raise Funds and Grow the Game with the 1000 Ball Challenge
Looking for an easy, flexible way to raise funds through golf?
Golf Ontario invites clubs, teams, schools, leagues, workplaces, and community groups to take part in the 1000 Ball Challenge—a fun, low‑lift fundraising program designed to support golf programs right where you live.
Our goal is straightforward: help local groups raise money, grow participation and open the door to golf for more people, with fundraising support from Golf Ontario at the provincial level.
What Is the 1000 Ball Challenge?
The 1000 Ball Challenge puts a golf twist on the popular peer‑to‑peer fundraising model used in walk, run, and ride events.
Participants fundraise in support of golf initiatives that matter to them by hitting 1,000 golf balls — as a team or individually. You set the pace, the format, and the goal.
Simple to organize. Easy to customize. Built for golfers and groups.
What Golf Ontario Provides
To make things easy, Golf Ontario supports your campaign with:
- A dedicated online fundraising page
- Tax receipts for donations of $20 or more, issued through the Golf Canada Foundation
- Fundraising incentives and prizes to encourage participation and giving
- Ongoing administrative and promotional support throughout your campaign
You keep the funds you raise (less a small administrative percentage), so you can reinvest directly into golf programs and initiatives that matter most to your community.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you’re just exploring the idea or ready to launch, Golf Ontario’s fundraising team is here to help you every step of the way.
Learn More — Connect with Golf Ontario’s Fundraising Team
For more information, email the Golf Ontario fundraising team directly at fundraising@golfontario.ca
Golf Ontario Announces 2026 Ontario Golf Hall of Fame Inductees
Golf Ontario is proud to announce Laura Matthews and Ian Giles will be inducted into the Ontario Golf Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2026. Additionally, Jeff Brooke will be honoured with the prestigious Lorne Rubenstein Media Award for his outstanding contributions to golf journalism.
The Ontario Golf Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place on May 6 at its home, Wooden Sticks Golf Course in Uxbridge, Ont.
“This year’s Hall of Fame inductees have both made extraordinary impact on the sport in Ontario,” says Golf Ontario CEO, Kyle McFarlane. “Laura’s accomplishments on the course, and Ian’s leadership off the course, have helped shape golf across the province, and the induction ceremony will be a special occasion for the Ontario golf community to come together and celebrate their remarkable achievements and contributions.”
Laura Matthews, Player Category
Born in Windsor, Ont., Laura Matthews emerged as a standout junior golfer in the province during the 1990s. She captured the Canadian Juvenile Girls Championship in 1995 and quickly became a consistent presence at the top of provincial and national leaderboards. Her early success signalled the arrival of a player whose work ethic, composure, and competitive drive would shape a remarkable amateur career.
Matthews claimed the Ontario Ladies Amateur Championship twice (2000, 2002) and added the Ontario Ladies Match Play Championship in 2000
On the national stage, she achieved one of Canadian amateur golf’s highest honours when she won the Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship in 2005. That victory followed multiple runner-up finishes, underscoring her consistency and resilience at the highest level of amateur competition.
Her excellence extended internationally, representing Canada at four World Amateur Team Championships (2000, 2002, 2004, 2006) and competing in three Astor Trophy/Commonwealth Matches (1999, 2003, 2007). She was also a member of the championship-winning Canadian team at the 2003 Copa de las Américas. From 1997 to 2007, she was a member of Golf Canada’s National Amateur Team, representing her province and country for more than a decade
Collegiately, Matthews starred at the University of Georgia, helping lead the Bulldogs to the 2001 NCAA Division I Women’s Golf Championship. She was part of three SEC Championship teams (1998, 1999, 2001), competing at one of the highest levels in collegiate golf and further establishing herself among Canada’s elite amateur players.
In recognition of her performance and consistency, Matthews was named SCOREGolf’s Female Amateur of the Year in 2005 and 2006.
Following her competitive playing career, Matthews transitioned seamlessly into coaching and leadership roles within the game. She served as Assistant Women’s Golf Coach at the University of Georgia from 2001 to 2005 and later as Head Women’s Golf Coach at Oklahoma State University from 2005 to 2008. In 2008, she was named Big 12 Coach of the Year, reflecting her ability not only to compete at the highest levels, but to mentor and develop the next generation of elite players.
From junior champion in Windsor to Canadian Amateur champion, World Amateur team member, NCAA national champion, and accomplished collegiate coach, Laura Matthews’ career reflects the very definition of excellence in the Player category.
Ian Giles, Builder Category
Beginning in the 1970’s, Ian Giles embarked on what would become more than 40 years of volunteer leadership and governance within the sport. He served as President of the Men’s Section at Chedoke for 10 years, represented golf on the Hamilton Sports Council for 15 years, and played key leadership roles in hosting provincial and national championships in Hamilton.
At the provincial level, Ian served six years on the Board of Directors of the Ontario Golf Association (OGA), culminating in his presidency in 2001. The following year, he led the organization through one of the most significant moments in Ontario golf history—the amalgamation of the Ontario Golf Association and the Ontario Ladies’ Golf Association—helping shape the unified structure that exists today as Golf Ontario. In recognition of his leadership, he was named an Honorary Life Director of the OGA.
Nationally, Ian served as a Governor of Golf Canada from 2003 to 2013, chairing numerous national championships and committees, including the Future Links program. He chaired the 2012 RBC Canadian Open at Hamilton Golf & Country Club and has represented Golf Canada for many years as a starter at the RBC Canadian Open, CP Canadian Women’s Open and the LPGA’s Manulife Championship.
Equally impactful has been Ian’s dedication to officiating and rules education. A highly respected Rules Official, he achieved Level 4 certification—the highest level at the time—from the Royal Canadian Golf Association in 2010.
His commitment to junior golf has been unwavering. Alongside his wife Ruth, Ian has been deeply involved with the Hamilton/Halton Junior Golf Tour since the 1990s, serving as President and long-time Director.
He’s a past recipient of Golf Ontario’s Dick Grimm Distinguished Volunteer of the Year Award and, in 2022, he and Ruth were honoured by Golf Canada with its Distinguished Volunteer Award .
Whether as administrator, president, governor, referee, mentor, or champion of junior golf, Ian has consistently elevated the standards of governance, officiating, and volunteer leadership in Ontario. His integrity, compassion for players, and deep respect for golf’s traditions have left an enduring imprint on the game.
Jeff Brooke, Lorne Rubenstein Media Award
Jeff Brooke is a seasoned Canadian journalist and editor who spent more than 25 years as a critical member of the editorial staff at The Globe and Mail. During his tenure, he served as a senior copy editor and golf writer, establishing himself as a prominent voice in Canadian golf media.
Brooke has contributed to several of the industry’s leading publications, specializing in storytelling and high-level coverage of the sport. At the Global Golf Post he served as a senior correspondent and “Journalist at Large” covering Canadian Golf for the international publication, covering major events and writing features on the global game.
He is a frequent contributor to SCOREGolf, where he has authored features on topics ranging from pro golf sponsorship to travel, and personal essays on his own evolving relationship with the game. His work has been recognized multiple times by the Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC).
In addition to his journalism, Brooke is the Senior Editor at Matchplay Golf Marketing. In this role, he leverages his decades of editorial experience to help golf brands find and craft authentic narratives. His work at Matchplay focuses on developing content that is authentic, informative, and entertaining, bridging the gap between the industry and the audience and providing a seasoned perspective on the ‘lived experience’ of the sport.
The Ontario Golf Hall of Fame is dedicated to the recognition of extraordinary contributions and accomplishments in the game of golf in Ontario. Founded in 2000 by the Ontario Golf Association and the Ontario Ladies’ Golf Association, the Ontario Golf Hall of Fame is housed at Wooden Sticks Golf Club in Uxbridge, Ont.
South Carolina Extends Series Lead with Win Over Ontario at Can-Am Matches
South Carolina delivered a commanding performance to defeat Ontario at the 26th annual Can-Am Matches, held March 21–22, 2026, at Wachesaw Plantation Club in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. The hosts secured a decisive 42.5–29.5 victory, extending their series lead to 21–5.
The two-day competition followed a traditional format, opening with eight four-ball matches on Day 1 before shifting to 16 singles matches on Day 2. Each match was worth one point for a win, and matches tied after 18 holes awarded a half-point to each team. A total of 36.5 points was required to win.
Despite the final margin, Ontario produced notable individual performances. Kaprice Park and Joseph Totino each recorded nine birdies during the opening round, highlighting a strong showing in four-ball play. However, South Carolina’s depth and consistency across both formats ultimately proved decisive in capturing the win.
Team Ontario Roster:
Alexis Card (Galt Country Club)
Andrea Lai (St. Thomas Golf & Country Club)
Amelia McFarlane (Ottawa Hunt & Golf Club)
Cindy Yan (Station Creek Golf Club)
Kaprice Park (RattleSnake Point Golf Club)
Riviera Lindholm (St. George’s Golf Club)
Kaylan Green (Scarborough Golf & Country Club)
Serena Zhang (Golf Ontario Player Club – Toronto South)
Andy Dai (Golf Ontario Players Club- Toronto North)
Dimitri Protopapas (The Nest)
Evan Hall (Elmira Golf Club)
Joseph Totino (Summit Golf & Country Club)
Manav Bharani (Brampton Golf Club)
Matthew Simpson (Lambton Golf & Country Club)
Max Li (Summit Golf & Country Club)
Michael Vivone (Royal Ottawa Golf Club)
For the full leaderboard, CLICK HERE.
The 26th Annual Can-Am Matches
The 26th Can-Am Matches, an annual face-off featuring junior golfers from Ontario against their counterparts from South Carolina, begins this Saturday at the Wachesaw Plantation Club in Murrells Inlet, S.C.
The Ontario team, composed of 16 players, will participate in 24 matches: 8 mixed four-ball matches on Saturday followed by 16 singles matches on Sunday. To claim victory, the winning team needs to secure 36.5 points.
“The Can-Am Matches are a special event for our athletes,” said Team Ontario Head Coach Reggie Millage. “The chance to represent Ontario and Canada in a team setting, on a great course like Wachesaw Plantation, makes it an unforgettable experience. Our players have worked hard to earn their spot and are excited to compete for a trophy with such a proud history.”
A Junior-Am event will precede the official start of the matches, allowing Can-Am Matches participants to play alongside event sponsors and members. This will be followed by a dinner and opening ceremonies at the Wachesaw Plantation Club.
At last year’s Can-Am Matches, Ontario secured a 39-33 win, marking their first victory since 2019 and only the fifth in the event’s history.
TEAM NOTES:
Alexis Card (Galt Country Club)
Andrea Lai (St. Thomas Golf & Country Club)
Amelia McFarlane (Ottawa Hunt & Golf Club)
Cindy Yan (Station Creek Golf Club)
Kaprice Park (RattleSnake Point Golf Club)
Riviera Lindholm (St. George’s Golf Club)
Kaylan Green (Scarborough Golf & Country Club)
Serena Zhang (Golf Ontario Player Club – Toronto South)
Andy Dai (Golf Ontario Players Club- Toronto North)
Dimitri Protopapas (The Nest)
Evan Hall (Elmira Golf Club)
Joseph Totino (Summit Golf & Country Club)
Manav Bharani (Brampton Golf Club)
Matthew Simpson (Lambton Golf & Country Club)
Max Li (Summit Golf & Country Club)
Michael Vivone (Royal Ottawa Golf Club)
FAST FACTS:
Venue: Wachesaw Plantation Club. Murrells Inlet, S.C.
Dates: March 21-22
Social Media: @thegolfontario on Instagram, Facebook.
Teams: Eight junior boys and eight junior girls from Team Ontario versus eight junior boys and girls from South Carolina
Format: Eight four-ball matches on Day 1 and 16 singles matches on Day 2. One full point is awarded for each victory, while a half-point is earned for matches that are all square after 18 holes. The first team to 36.5 points is the winner.
Series Record: South Carolina leads 20-5
Notable Can-Am Matches Competitors: Corey Conners, Mackenzie Hughes, Brittany Marchand, Augusta James, Rebecca Lee-Bentham, Bill Haas, Kevin Kisner, Lauren Stephenson and Jensen Castle.
Fun Fact: Wachesaw Plantation Club was home to an LPGA Tour event from 1997-2000.
Team Ontario Triumphs: Kaprice Park and Michael Vivone Capture 2026 Ontario Junior Players Invitational Titles in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach, SC – At the 2026 Ontario Junior Players Invitational, contested at Legends Golf Resort in Myrtle Beach, both the Girls and Boys divisions delivered standout performances from Canada’s emerging junior stars.
In the Girls division, Kaprice Park of RattleSnake Point Golf Club captured the title at 4-under-par (217), highlighted by a clutch final-round 68 that separated her from the field. Riviera Lindholm of St. George’s Golf Club claimed second place with impressive consistency, posting three consecutive rounds of 73 to finish at 3-over-par (219). Ziqing (Judy) Lin of NBGA Public Players Club – South East rounded out the top three, recording rounds of 75, 74, 78 to finish at 11-over-par (227) and secure third place.
On the Boy’s side, Michael Vivone of Royal Ottawa Golf Club carried that same momentum, delivering a dominant closing performance to finish at 5-under-par (212) and claim the championship. Close behind, Andy Dai of Golf Ontario Players Club – Toronto North secured second place with consistency, carding three straight rounds of 71 for a 3-under-par total of 213. Rounding out the podium was Joseph Totino of Summit Golf & Country Club, who posted rounds of 71, 74, 73 to finish at 2-over-par (218) and take third place.
Golf Ontario would like to express its sincere gratitude to the volunteers, officials, and staff at Legends Golf Resort for their exceptional support and hospitality today. Their contributions were instrumental in delivering a world-class experience.
Stay Connected
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