Swing Into Spring: 2025 Opening Dates Across Ontario
Spring is here, and Ontario golfers are eager to hit the fairways! As the weather warms up, many Golf Ontario member facilities are preparing to open for the 2025 season. Below is a list of confirmed opening dates across various regions:
GTA
- Kedron Dells Golf Club – March 26
- Burlington Springs Golf & Country Club – March 27
- Granite Ridge Golf Club – April 14
- Westview Golf Club – April 19
- Oshawa Airport Golf Club – April 16
Southwestern Ontario
- Tarandowah Golfers Club – March 14
- Pine Knot Golf & Country Club – March 15
- Arkona Fairways – March 27
- Forest Golf Club and Inn – March 27
- Maple Ridge Golf Club – March 27
- Westminster Trails Golf Club – March 28
- Kingswell Glen Golf Club – April 4
- Tamarack Ridge Golf Club – April 4
- The Fox Golf Club – April 4
- Ainsdale Golf Course – April 4
- Cobble Hills Golf Club – April 11
- Ridgetown Golf and Curling Club – April 11
- Sand Hills Golf Club – April 11
- The Links at Dover Coast – April 12
Bruce/Grey/Simcoe
- Batteaux Creek Golf Club – April 11
- The Club at Bond Head – April 11
- Settler’s Ghost Golf Club – April 16
- Hockley Valley Resort – April 25
York/Durham
- Valley Mede Columbus Golf Club – March 22
- South Ajax Golf Club – April 3
- Orangeville Golf Club – April 12
- Uplands Golf and Ski Club – April 17
- Pheasant Run Golf Club – April 25
- Orchard Beach Golf & CC – April 25
- Oakridge Golf Club – May 2
Huron/Perth/Waterloo
- RiverEdge Golf Club – March 25
- Conestoga, Calerin Golf Club – April 10
- Beaverdale, Exeter, Ironwood Golf Club – April 11
- Grey Silo, Foxwood, Rebel Creek Golf Club – April 12
- Dundee Golf Club – April 14
Hamilton/Halton/Brant
- Knollwood Golf Club – March 26
- Lowville Golf Club – March 28
- Brant Valley, Burford Golf Links, Mystic, Scenic Woods Golf Club – April 11
- Acton Golf Club – April 12
- Hornby Glen Golf Club – April 16
- The Oaks of St. George Golf Club – April 16
- Dragon’s Fire Golf Club – April 1
Ottawa & Beyond
- Mountain Creek Golf Club – April 21
- Loch March Golf Club – May 1
- Seguin Valley Golf Club – May 2
- Diamond in the Ruff – May 16
- Lee Golf Club – May 17
These opening dates are subject to weather conditions, so it’s always best to check directly with the facility before heading out.
OGSA Uses 1000 Ball Challenge to Benefit First Green Program in Province
In 2024, the Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association (OGSA) turned drives into dollars—raising $8,677 through Golf Ontario’s 1000 Ball Challenge. Led by the OGSA Board of Directors, the effort supported not just one, but two impactful initiatives: the First Green program, and Golf Ontario’s broader Golf For All Fund.
The 1000 Ball Challenge is a province-wide fundraising campaign that calls on golfers, industry leaders, and community members to hit 1,000 golf balls and raise funds to build a more inclusive and accessible future for the sport. OGSA’s 2024 contribution demonstrates how strong industry leadership and a shared mission can drive meaningful change.
A portion of the funds raised will directly support the First Green program, which brings students onto golf courses for hands-on STEAM-based learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math). Led by superintendents, these experiences connect youth to the natural environment, sustainability, and future careers in golf course management.
The OGSA’s commitment also reflects strong partner and industry support for Golf Ontario’s Golf For All Fund—a campaign focused on removing barriers to participation, enhancing community outreach, and developing a more diverse and welcoming golf community across Ontario.
“Much like Golf Ontario, the OGSA and its members are dedicated to growing the game of golf—literally,” said the OGSA’s Executive Director, Courtney White. “As Golf Ontario develops players through Golf For All, the OGSA will expose youth to the exciting and viable career path of growing and maintaining golf courses.”
From irrigation systems to soil science, students who participate in a First Green field trip experience the golf course through a superintendent’s eyes—while exploring real-world applications of science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). With the funds raised in 2024, the OGSA will help golf courses across the province host First Green events during the 2025 season—offering support on a first-come, first-served basis to help overcome barriers like busing or supply costs.
“The funds raised will not only support Golf Ontario’s Golf For All Fund, but they will also support STEAM on the golf course through First Green,” said White. “Hosting classrooms on the golf course is one way to expose children to these opportunities. The funds will help cover materials or challenges like transportation so more schools can take part.”
Looking ahead to 2025, the OGSA hopes to expand participation beyond just the board of directors—inviting more members to build their own teams, support the cause and play a role in growing the First Green program. Every ball hit and every dollar raised brings students closer to engaging, hands-on learning experiences that can spark future careers in the golf industry.
“Programs like First Green are essential to maintaining golf’s impact on communities and the economy in the future,” said White. “We must invest in our communities and our youth.”
Whether you’re an OGSA member, an industry partner, or simply someone who believes in the power of golf to create change, there’s a way to make a difference through the 1000 Ball Challenge—by donating, forming a team, or supporting those who are swinging with purpose.
“We’re excited to see even more participation in 2025, and we invite anyone who believes in golf’s potential to join us,” said White.
To learn more about the 1000 Ball Challenge or the First Green program, visit 1000ball.ca or ogsa.ca.
To donate to the OGSA’s 1000 Ball campaign, CLICK HERE.






GAO.ca is Now GolfOntario.ca
We’re excited to share that Golf Ontario has a new home online! As of today, our website has officially transitioned from gao.ca to golfontario.ca.
Why the Change?
This update aligns with our brand identity and makes it even easier for golfers, clubs, and partners to find us online. Our commitment to growing the game and serving Ontario’s golf community remains the same—just with a refreshed, more intuitive web address!
What You Need to Know:
✅ Our website has moved – You can now find us at golfontario.ca.
✅ Our emails have changed – All Golf Ontario staff can now be reached at @golfontario.ca. Be sure to update your contacts!
✅ gao.ca will automatically redirect to ensure a seamless transition.
A Word from Our Team
“This transition is an exciting step for Golf Ontario as we continue to grow and modernize our digital presence. Moving to golfontario.ca reinforces our identity, making it easier for golfers, facilities, and partners to connect with us. We’re excited about what’s ahead and appreciate the continued support of Ontario’s golf community.”
— Chris Fry, Director of Marketing & Communications, Golf Ontario
Thank you for being part of our journey. We can’t wait to continue growing golf in Ontario together!
🔗 Visit us now at golfontario.ca!
Team Ontario Wins Can-Am Matches
Team Ontario claimed victory at the 2025 Can-Am Matches, the annual showdown between Ontario’s top junior golfers and their South Carolina counterparts, on Sunday at Wachesaw Plantation Club.
Ontario secured a 39-33 win, marking their first victory since 2019 and only the fifth in the event’s 25-year history.
“This win wasn’t easy, and I’m incredibly proud of how the team battled through adversity to earn it,” said Team Ontario Head Coach Reggie Millage. “We’ve been saying all off-season that this is one of the strongest groups we’ve ever brought to these matches, and I’m so glad they got rewarded with a win.
“I’m especially happy for the graduating seniors, who returned to beautiful Wachesaw Plantation one more time and will now have their names engraved on a very cool trophy.”
The Ontario squad—nine junior boys and nine junior girls—competed in 24 matches over the weekend, playing: eight Four-Ball Matches Saturday and 16 Singles Matches Sunday.
For the full leaderboard, CLICK HERE.
Team Ontario Roster
Boys:
- Jordan Hwang (Emerald Hills Golf & Country Club)
- Luke Smith (Thornhill Club)
- Bode Stephen (Cataraqui Golf & Country Club)
- Rylan Hall (Whistle Bear Golf Club)
- Dawson Lew (Wyndance Golf Club)
- Chase Jerome (Royal Ottawa Golf Club)
- Gabriel Mainella (Summit Golf & Country Club)
- Spencer Shropshire (Hawk Ridge Golf Club)
- Jager Pain (Station Creek Golf Club)
Girls:
- Nobelle Park (RattleSnake Point Golf Club)
- Kaprice Park (RattleSnake Point Golf Club)
- Alexis Card (Galt Country Club)
- Amelia McFarlane (Ottawa Hunt Club)
- Avery Nordman (Canadian Golf & Country Club)
- Sadie Wu (Station Creek Golf Club)
- Kaylan Green (Scarborough Golf Club)
- Lindsay McGrath (RattleSnake Point Golf Club)
- Angela Cai (Mississauga Golf Club)
The Can-Am Matches have long been a proving ground for future stars, with past participants including: Corey Conners, Mackenzie Hughes, Brittany Marchand, Augusta James, Rebecca Lee-Bentham, Dustin Johnson, Bill Haas, Kevin Kisner, Lauren Stephenson, and Jensen Castle.
The 25th Annual Can-Am Matches
The 25th Can-Am Matches, an annual face-off featuring junior golfers from Ontario against their counterparts from South Carolina, will commence this Saturday at the Wachesaw Plantation Club in Murrells Inlet, S.C.
The Ontario team, composed of 18 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 one of the most anticipated events of the year. The opportunity for Ontario athletes to compete as a team and represent their province and country is truly an honour,” says Team Ontario Head Coach Reggie Millage. “The unique format on a special golf course with unbelievable support from the members of Wachesaw Plantation, combined with the tireless efforts of the staff and SCJGF make it even more special,” he says, adding, “our athletes have worked hard and I know will give it everything they have to try and etch their name onto the trophy that already has so many great players on it.”
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.
Team Notes
Jordan Hwang (Emerald Hills Golf & Country Club)
Luke Smith (Thornhill Club)
Bode Stephen (Cataraqui Golf & Country Club)
Rylan Hall (Whistle Bear Golf Club)
Dawson Lew (Wyndance Golf Club)
Chase Jerome (Royal Ottawa Golf Club)
Gabriel Mainella (Summit Golf & Country Club)
Spencer Shropshire (Hawk Ridge Golf Club)
Jager Pain (Station Creek Golf Club)
Nobelle Park (RattleSnake Point Golf Club)
Kaprice Park (RattleSnake Point Golf Club)
Alexis Card (Galt Country Club)
Amelia McFarlane (Ottawa Hunt Club)
Avery Nordman (Canadian Golf & Country Club)
Sadie Wu (Station Creek Golf Club)
|Kaylan Green (Scarborough Golf Club)
Linsday McGrath (Rattlesnake Point Golf Club)
Angela Cai (Mississauga Golf Club)
Fast Facts
Venue: Wachesaw Plantation Club. Murrells Inlet, S.C.
Dates: March 15-16
Can-Am Leaderboard
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 20-4
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.
Golf Ontario Announces 2025 Ontario Golf Hall of Fame Inductees
Golf Ontario is proud to announce that Alena Sharp, Archie Berube, Grant Fraser, and Charles Blair MacDonald will be inducted into the Ontario Golf Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2025. Additionally, Doug Ball will be honoured with the prestigious Lorne Rubenstein Media Award for his outstanding contributions to golf photojournalism.
The Ontario Golf Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place on May 7 at its home, Wooden Sticks Golf Course in Uxbridge, Ont.
“Each of our 2025 inductees has made a profound impact on golf in Ontario, and we look forward to celebrating their incredible achievements on May 7,” said Golf Ontario CEO Kyle McFarlane. “The Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony is always a special occasion—bringing together past and present inductees to honour their legacies and celebrate the great game of golf in our province.”
2025 Inductees
Alena Sharp, Player Category

Alena Sharp has enjoyed a remarkable professional golf career spanning more than two decades on the LPGA Tour. A standout junior, amateur, and collegiate player, she captured several prestigious titles, including the Canadian Junior Championship (1999); Ontario Junior Championship (1997, 1998); and Ontario Ladies Amateur Championship (1999), attending New Mexico State on a golf scholarship, where she honed her skills and established herself as a standout player before turning professional in 2003.
Since joining the LPGA Tour in 2005, Sharp has secured victories on the Epson Tour (two wins), West Coast Ladies Tour (four wins), Cactus Tour (two wins), and Canadian Women’s Pro Tour (three wins). A four-time PGA of Canada Women’s Champion, she has proudly represented Canada on the international stage, competing in three Olympic Games (2016, 2021, 2024), the 2008 World Cup, and the 2023 Pan Am Games, where she earned a bronze medal.
In addition to her success on the course, Alena is known for her commitment to promoting the game of golf and inspiring the next generation of golfers, especially young women. She is also a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and has used her platform to promote positive conversations surrounding mental well-being in sports.
Off the course, Sharp enjoys engaging with her fans and remains deeply involved in charitable initiatives, including those aimed at growing the game of golf in Canada. With her talent, perseverance, and positive influence, Sharp continues to make a significant impact on the LPGA Tour and the sport of golf as a whole.
Archie Berube, Builder Category

Archie Berube is a dedicated volunteer, leader, and advocate who has played a pivotal role in the growth and revitalization of the Northern Golf Association (NGA) for over 25 years. His contributions to the game of golf in Northern Ontario over the past several decades are nothing short of remarkable. As a steadfast leader, Berube has been a guiding force for the NGA, helping to navigate its most challenging years and secure a future of growth and success for golfers in the region.
In the late 2000s, Archie recognized the need for change and began to recruit younger, energetic members to the NGA board of directors. This new wave of leadership helped the organization find its footing, embracing social media and fostering positive engagement with member clubs. Under Mr. Berube’s guidance, the NGA re-established a crucial dialogue with Golf Ontario, setting the stage for a revitalized relationship that would benefit all parties involved. By 2016, significant progress had been made, leading to the drafting of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the NGA, Golf Ontario, and Golf Canada. In November 2018, under Berube’s leadership, the NGA signed the MOU, marking a major milestone in the organization’s history and securing its place in the provincial and national golf scene.
Thanks to Berube’s vision and determination, the NGA has grown substantially since 2009, expanding from 12 member clubs to 33 by 2024. The organization’s successful collaboration with Golf Ontario and Golf Canada has allowed Northern Ontario to host more Provincial and National Golf Championships than ever before, including events like the 2022 Golf Ontario Junior Boys Championship and the 2024 Golf Ontario Mid-Amateur Championship. Berube’s leadership has played a critical role in securing these prestigious events for the region, benefiting not only the NGA but also local communities that have hosted these competitions.
Beyond his work with the NGA, Berube is deeply involved in the broader golf community. He serves as a volunteer at Golf Ontario qualifiers and Provincial Championships and is a member of the Northern Ratings Team, responsible for over 30 golf course ratings in Northern Ontario since 2018. He also plays a significant role at the Hollinger Golf Club, where he oversees the Starter/Marshal Program and contributed to the club’s expansion to an 18-hole facility.
Berube’s dedication to the sport of golf extends beyond his volunteer work. He has been instrumental in developing grassroots programs, and under his leadership, the Hollinger Golf Club was a finalist for Golf Canada’s National Facility Awards in the Grassroots Junior Program category. His contributions have been recognized on a provincial level with his induction into the Timmins Sports Heritage Hall of Fame in 2018.
Archie Berube’s legacy in Northern Ontario golf is one of perseverance, leadership, and unwavering commitment. He has helped shape the future of the sport in the region, ensuring that it remains vibrant and accessible for generations to come. As the Northern Golf Association prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2026, Mr. Berube’s efforts will be remembered as a cornerstone of the organization’s success. His influence on the game, his community, and the people he has mentored will continue to resonate for many years to come.
Grant Fraser, Builder Category

Grant Fraser is a pioneer in golf management education. For more than 30 years, the programs Fraser established have impacted a new generation of golf industry leaders in Ontario and across Canada.
In 1995, Fraser started the first Professional Golf Management (PGM) Program in Ontario at Humber College for the PGA of Canada. In 1998, Fraser received the College’s Innovator-of-the-Year Award in recognition for what he created. Twenty-twenty five marks the 30th anniversary of the program.
In 1999, Fraser recognized a need to expand the breadth of golf management education which included all facets of the business including food and beverage, turf, sales, general management and administration, etc. With support from the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities, and ClubLink Corporation, Fraser launched the Golf Management Institute of Canada (GMIC), the first, and only, online golf management program in Canada. As well as offering its own online proprietary program in golf operations management, the GMIC, under Fraser’s direction, established numerous academic partnerships which included Niagara College, Georgian College, the University of Guelph, and Wilfrid Laurier University.
In 2004, both Fraser and the GMIC received the Canadian Award for Training Excellence from the Canadian Society for Training and Development (CSTD). In 2024, the GMIC celebrated its 25th year anniversary.
The GMIC’s program is offered in partnership with McMaster University’s Centre for Continuing Education and is the only online golf program in Canada delivered by a Canadian University. For his contribution to continuing education, Fraser was presented with McMaster University’s Appreciation and Exceptional Service award in 2018.
Beyond education, Fraser has shared his expertise internationally, including teaching in China and the U.S., and has made significant contributions to golf media as an award-winning writer and photographer for Flagstick magazine, and panelist for top course rankings. A dedicated industry leader, he has served on the boards of the Golf Journalists Association of Canada, Canadian Junior Golf Association, and the Hamilton/Halton Junior Golf Tour, among others. He has also volunteered on numerous committees for Golf Canada, the PGA of Canada, and Golf Ontario.
Currently, Fraser is working with Golf Canada as the Manager, Home for Canadian Golf, where he is involved in the relocation of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and construction of Golf Canada’s new national headquarters at TPC Toronto Osprey Valley.
For his work as an educator and impact on the current generation of golf industry professionals, Fraser was named an Honorary Director of the PGA of Canada in 2019.
Charles Blair MacDonald, Builder Category

Born in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Charles Blair Macdonald is regarded as the “Father of American Golf Course Architecture.” In 1893, he built the first 18-hole course in the United States, Chicago Golf Club, and pioneered the concept of replicating famous golf hole designs from Great Britain and Europe, a practice that continues to influence course design today.
Beyond his architectural contributions, Macdonald helped found the United States Golf Association (USGA) in 1894 and played a key role in adopting the Royal and Ancient (R&A) rules as the official rules of golf in North America. An accomplished player, he won the inaugural U.S. Amateur Championship in 1895 and claimed victory at Niagara-on-the-Lake Golf Club’s first international tournament that same year.
His legendary course designs, including National Golf Links of America on Long Island in New York and Mid Ocean in Bermuda, have left a lasting impact on the game. In 2007, he was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame as one of only two Canadians to receive the honour.
Doug Ball, Lorne Rubenstein Media Award

Doug Ball’s career in photography and golf spans decades, capturing some of the sport’s most iconic moments. Born in London, Ont., in 1946, he developed a passion for photography at an early age, learning from his father, a Royal Canadian Air Force photographer. After starting his career with United Press International in 1966, he joined the Canadian Press in 1967, beginning a journey that took him around the world before he returned to Canada to work for the Ottawa Journal in 1972. That same year, he also played professional hockey in France.
Rejoining the Canadian Press in 1973, Doug turned his focus to golf photography, covering PGA TOUR and LPGA Tour events, including major championships in North America and beyond. Based in Montreal, he captured historic moments such as Jocelyne Bourassa’s win at La Canadienne, Jack Nicklaus’s playoff loss to Tom Weiskopf in 1975, and Tiger Woods’ first Masters victory in 1997. He was also on hand for Mike Weir’s triumph at the 2003 Masters, among many other career highlights.
Beyond golf, Doug’s photography portfolio includes iconic images of Pierre Trudeau’s pirouette at Buckingham Palace, Wayne Gretzky’s final NHL game, and multiple Stanley Cup and Olympic moments. He also played a key role in golf operations, serving as Director of Golf at Devil’s Pulpit after its founders, Trivial Pursuit creators Scott Abbott and Chris Haney, turned to him for his expertise.
A widely respected photographer, Doug’s work has been featured in ClubLink, SCOREGolf magazine, and numerous golf books, including his 2005 publication, Life on a Press Pass, with his brother Lynn. His impact on golf and sports photography has earned him widespread recognition, including the Lorne Rubenstein Media Award.
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.
Park and Mundy Claim Victory at Ontario Junior Players Invitational
Nobelle Park of RattleSnake Point Golf Club and Barron Mundy of Mississaugua Golf and Country Club triumphed at the Ontario Junior Players Invitational in Myrtle Beach. Park, a Team Ontario member, held on to her first-round lead, finishing even-par in the final round to win at one-over for the tournament.
Mundy claimed the boys’ title with a 216 total (70-74-72), finishing even-par, while Team Ontario’s Jordan Hwang of Emerald Hills Golf & Country Club finished second at +1.
Several Team Ontario players made strong showings in the boys’ division at the Ontario Junior Players Invitational. Luke Smith of The Thornhill Club finished tied for 9th with a +10 total (80-74-72), while Chase Jerome of Royal Ottawa Golf Club claimed 3rd place with a +2 total (75-73-70). Bode Stephen of Cataraqui Golf & Country Club tied for 4th at +3 (77-73-69), and Spencer Shropshire of Hawk Ridge Golf Club finished tied for 9th with a +10 total (81-72-73). Gabriel Mainella of Summit Golf & Country Club rounded out the group, also tying for 9th with a +10 total (73-77-76). These Team Ontario athletes showcased their skill and competitiveness throughout the event.
In the girls’ competition, Team Ontario players dominated the leaderboard. Nobelle Park led the way with a +6 total (75-72-75), while her teammate and sister, Kaprice Park, finished second at +7 (75-74-74). Alexis Card of Galt Country Club secured third place with a +8. Team Ontario also placed several other players in the top 10, including Sadie Wu, Claire Roberts, Kaylan Green, Amelia McFarlane, Avery Nordman, and former Team Ontario player Angela Cai showcasing the depth of talent from Ontario.
For the full leaderboard, CLICK HERE.
FAST FACTS
- All Team Ontario Girls finished in the Top 10.
- The lowest girls’ score was 71, achieved by Riviera Lindholm (St. Georges G&CC).
- Seven of the Top 10 boys are Team Ontario members.
- The lowest boys’ score was 69, achieved by Bode Stephen (Team Ontario).
- The 5th hole was the toughest, with an average score of 3.88.
- The 4th hole was the second toughest, averaging 4.67.
- The easiest hole was the 9th, with an average score of 4.07.
- The course’s scoring average was 80.33
International Women’s Day 2025
Golf Ontario honours the contributions of women of all ages to the sport of golf. We appreciate you today, on International Women’s Day, and throughout the year as you participate in our Women’s Try and Women’s Learn events as well as in Golf Ontario’s women’s qualifiers and championships held annually across the province. We remain committed to increasing the number of women whose lives are positively impacted by golf experiences.
Ontario’s Top Juniors Kick Off 2025 Championship Season
The 2025 Ontario Junior Players Invitational will take place March 10-11 at the renowned Parkland Course at Legends Golf Resort in Myrtle Beach, S.C.
This prestigious event will showcase the top junior talent from across Ontario, with a field size of 84 players, including 61 boys and 23 girls.
The Invitational will follow a 54-hole stroke play format. Players will compete in 36 holes over two rounds on March 10, with a final 18-hole round on March 11.
Notably, the field will include 17 Team Ontario players; 14 Next Wave players; one Golf Canada Next Gen team member; four Next Wave alumni, and two Team Ontario alumni. This year’s field includes some of Ontario’s top-ranked juniors, including the defending champions and 2024’s No.1-ranked U19 players on the Junior Golf Pathway Rankings:
- Gabriel Mainella – Summit Golf & Country Club
- Nobelle Park – Rattlesnake Point Golf Club
Also competing are the 2024 Ontario U17 Champions:
- Dawson Lew – Wyndance Golf Club
- Avery Nordman – Canadian Golf & Country Club
Additionally, Team Canada NextGen member and 2024 Ontario Junior Boys Amateur Championship runner-up Jager Pain from Station Creek Golf Club, along with Angela Cai, the 2024 Ontario Super Camp Invitational Champion from Heron Point Golf Links, are set to compete.
For the full field and tee times, CLICK HERE.
” The Ontario Junior Players Invitational is the perfect way to kick off the 2025 Golf Ontario Championship Season,” says Junior Players Invitational Tournament Director Connor Doyle. “We’re excited to return to Legends Golf Resort, this time on the Parkland Course, which will provide a great test for a highly competitive field featuring Team Canada Next Gen, Team Ontario, and Next Wave players, along with many of the top-ranked juniors from the 2024 season. ”
The event promises to be a thrilling showcase of Ontario’s next generation of elite golfers, with top talent and intense competition on display.
For more information about the Ontario Junior Players Invitational, CLICK HERE.
Golf Canada to recognize Lee Griffin with its 2025 Distinguished Service Award
Four accomplished contributors to Canadian golf will be acknowledged for their dedicated efforts in and around the game as the 2025 recipients of Golf Canada’s Distinguished Service Award.
Long-time Golf Canada volunteers Lee Griffin of Cambridge, Ont., Jack McDonald of Kamloops, B.C. and Jean Stone-Séguin of Rockland, Ont. along with retired PGA of Canada professional Muncie Booth of Vancouver, B.C. will be acknowledged for their tremendous contributions to Canadian golf.
“Golf Canada is proud to honour the outstanding contributions of Lee Griffin, Jack McDonald, Jean Stone-Séguin and Muncie Booth, as our 2025 Distinguished Service Award recipients,” said David McCarthy, President, Golf Canada. “The incredible dedication that these four honourees have for the game is truly outstanding. The impact they have had in both their home communities and across the country has left an indelible mark on golf in Canada and we are proud to honour and recognize them.”
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 2025 Distinguished Service Award honourees coincides with Golf Canada’s Annual General Meeting, conducted virtually on Thursday, March 6 at 1:00 p.m. EST.
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.
Lee Griffin (Volunteer) – Cambridge, Ont.
For more than 30 years, Lee Griffin of Cambridge, Ont. has supported the Rules of Golf provincially in Ontario and nationally at a countless number of championships. She has served as a member of the Rules & Amateur Status Committee (2020-2023) and has been an active contributor to Golf Canada’s Rules Education Subcommittee. She created a webinar series in Ontario for prospective Referees in 2010 which is still in use today. She participated in the development of the curriculum and presentations for Level 2 and Level 3 Rules Education and has served as an instructor for both levels. Griffin has also served Golf Ontario as a member and past Chair of the Rules Committee having been a referee for the past 25 years and previously with the former Ontario Ladies Golf Association. Griffin is a member of the Galt Country Club and has refereed at the U.S. Women’s Open as well as countless National Amateur Championships and Qualifiers. Her outstanding contributions to the game have also been recognized by the (former) Canadian Ladies Golf Association as its 2003 Volunteer of the Year, as well as Golf Ontario as its 2009 and 2020 Volunteer of the Year, 2011 Honorary Life Director and 2017 Distinguished Service Award recipient.