Ontario athletes delivered a statement performance at the 2025 Canadian All Abilities Championship, as Natasha Stasiuk and Josh Williams captured national titles in Kamloops, B.C., while fellow Ontarians Josh Hunke and Chris Willis rounded out a dominant showing with top-5 finishes.

Natasha Stasiuk (RattleSnake Point Golf Club) extended her remarkable streak by winning her fifth-consecutive title in the Women’s Gross Stroke Play division. With the win, she qualifies for her third U.S. Adaptive Open, where she’ll look to defend her 2024 title in the intellectual impairment category.

“Being a five-time champion means a lot to me,” said Stasiuk. “It’s nice to be rewarded for the hard work.”

Her national success came just weeks after claiming her sixth Ontario Adaptive Open title at Weston Golf and Country Club, where she also won the Women’s Net Stableford division.

Josh Williams (Tavistock) earned his first Canadian All Abilities Championship title. Williams moved into the lead early in the final round and never looked back. He has now qualified for the 2026 U.S. Adaptive Open, marking his second career appearance at the event.

“I’ve won a lot of tournaments, but none this high profile,” said Williams. “It hasn’t sunk in yet that I’m a national champion.”

Josh Hunke (Deer Ridge Golf Club) finished runner-up behind Williams. He opened with a 69 and followed with rounds of 71 and 72 to finish at four-under 212. The two friends, who live just 20 minutes apart, were paired together for the final round.

“If Josh even putted half decent, he would have won this tournament for fun,” joked Williams. “He’s going to be a problem in the future.”

Hunke also finished second at the 2025 Ontario Adaptive Open, where he shot 70 and 71 to finish at three-under-par.

Chris Willis (Pheasant Run Golf Club) capped off a strong Ontario showing with a fourth-place finish. He posted rounds of 72, 77, and 71 to finish at four-over 220. Earlier this season, Willis won his second Ontario Adaptive Open title with rounds of 67 and 71 to finish six-under.

To learn more or get involved in adaptive golf, visit: Golf Ontario Adaptive Open and Adaptive Golf Month.

The Team Ontario Boys added another win to their stacked 2025 resume by taking home the 61st Williamson Cup, held Tuesday, August 5th at Club Laval-sur-le-Lac in Quebec.

This historic junior event brought together ten associations from across Canada and the United States for a one-day, 36-hole test of team and individual play. Each four-player team competed with their best three scores per round counting toward the overall total.

Represented associations included:

• Golf Ontario
• Golf Québec
• Golf Association of Philadelphia
• Maryland State Golf Association
• Western Pennsylvania Golf Association
• Rochester District Golf Association
• Metropolitan Golf Association
• Buffalo District Golf Association
• Syracuse District Golf Association

Team Ontario edged out the host team, Golf Québec, by just one stroke, finishing with a team score of +9 (435). The razor-thin margin proved the strength of Ontario’s depth and composure, especially in Round 2, where they improved on their opening score by five strokes (220 → 215).

“I would say as a whole that we had a very strong team this year, said Alex Taylor, Golf Ontario’s Manager of Junior Performance. “They all work very hard and I’m happy that they were able to cap off their Team Ontario experience with a win.”

Leading the way individually was Team Ontario’s Spencer Shropshire, who carded a tournament-best 66 in the second round to finish at -4 (72-66–138),  four strokes clear of the next closest competitor. His final round surge not only secured him the individual championship, but was also crucial in Golf Ontario’s team victory.

Shropshire is no stranger to the winner’s circle, having recently captured the 2025 Ontario Junior Boys’ Championship where he tied the course record at Lindsay Golf and Curling Club. His standout season continues to turn heads on both the provincial and national stages.

It’s been a pleasure to see the season Spencer’s had,” said Taylor. “As a first-year team member, it’s been great to get to know the golfer he is and watch his hard work pay off. He has a bright future, and the team is excited for him.” 

Ontario’s full boys team delivered when it mattered most. “I believe the biggest factor is that the boys have been teammates for a few years and have built incredible chemistry together,” Taylor added. “They’re all competitive with each other, and I think that pushes them to work even harder.”

The win in Quebec is the latest in what has become a dominant 2025 campaign for the Team Ontario Boys, one that continues to be defined by cohesion, clutch play, and a deep pool of rising talent.

To view full results: https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/11451294321274308726

As part of Golf Ontario’s first-ever Adaptive Golf Month, Golf Ontario visited Royal Niagara Golf Club to meet Frank Peter — an adaptive golfer whose passion for the game has never faded. With the help of the SoloRider, Frank has found his way back onto the course. This video will highlight his story, the cart’s impact, and how inclusive tools like the SoloRider are reshaping the future of adaptive golf in Ontario.

To learn more about adaptive golf, visit www.golfontario.ca/adaptivegolfmonth and follow @TheGolfOntario on social media for stories and testimonials celebrating Adaptive Golf Month.

An incredible Adaptive Golf Month has concluded with big news for Ontario. Six Canadian golfers with a disability are now ranked in the top 50 globally. Throughout the month, adaptive athletes showcased their skill, passion, and competitive spirit and their efforts are now being recognized on the world stage.

Leading the pack are Chris Willis and Kurtis Barkley, who now sit back-to-back in The World Amateur Golf Rankings at No. 11 and 12. Willis, who captured the title at this year’s Golf Ontario Adaptive Championship, continues to build on his strong season. Barkley also competed at the provincial championship and remains one of the country’s most consistent and respected adaptive players.

Another notable is Josh Hunke, currently ranked 24th in the world, further demonstrating the depth of Ontario talent.

A standout story from this month’s rankings shift is Reggie Millage, who jumped an incredible 106 spots to reach No. 43 in the world, despite having only four official events to his name. A respected competitor, Millage also serves as the head coach of Team Ontario, bringing deep experience and leadership to both his players and his own game.

Also making headlines this month was Natasha Stasiuk, who won the women’s division at the 2025 Golf Ontario Adaptive Championship. A longtime leader in Canadian adaptive golf, Stasiuk continues to pave the way for women in the sport through her strong play and inspiring presence on and off the course.

Golf Ontario’s Adaptive Golf Month wrapped up with more than just great events, it delivered real change. What began as a celebration of inclusive and accessible golf continued the breakthrough momentum for Canadian adaptive athletes, both in spirit and in the world rankings. Golf Ontario played a key role by supporting high-level events, providing athletes with valuable ranking opportunities and national exposure. Through storytelling, digital coverage, and strong partnerships, Golf Ontario helped elevate Canadian adaptive golfers on the global stage.

These impressive rankings are a testament to the dedication, skill, and resilience of Canadian adaptive golfers. Supported by organizations like Golf Ontario, ParaSport Ontario and Special Olympics, these athletes are breaking barriers and inspiring others to pursue the game at all levels. As Adaptive Golf Month wraps up, one thing is clear, Canada is proving it belongs at the very top of adaptive golf.

To explore the rankings and follow the progress of golfers with a disability worldwide, visit the official World Rankings page here. 

To learn more about adaptive golf, visit www.golfontario.ca/adaptivegolfmonth and follow @TheGolfOntario on social media for stories and testimonials celebrating Adaptive Golf Month.

At Shelburne Golf and Country Club, junior golf isn’t just a summer activity, it’s a long-term investment in the future of the game, built on a legacy of leadership and love for the sport.

Located on the edge of the Niagara Escarpment, the 18-hole course has become a local leader in youth golf development. That’s thanks to a forward-thinking rental club program, an inclusive lineup of junior offerings for all ages or stages, and the continued vision of General Manager Megan Young, who is proudly building on the foundation built by her father, Sam Young, a Canadian Golf Legend and Ontario Golf Hall of Fame inductee. 

“We start our kids as young as three years old,” Megan says. “A lot of clubs still limit junior access, but golf is missing the boat when we do that. We’re shaping the future of the game by making it accessible and enjoyable from the start.”

Clubs That Grow With Them

A big part of Shelburne’s junior program is its club rental option. Kids get properly sized clubs and a stand bag for the whole season. That means families don’t need to spend a lot of money right away, and young golfers can learn with the right equipment from the start.

Programming for Every Age

Shelburne offers something for every stage of a young golfer’s journey:

• Turkey Saturdays welcome kids ages 3–5 for free drop-in lessons, with clubs provided and no registration required. Held from 2–3pm each Saturday, it’s a low-pressure, fun introduction to the sport.
• The Junior-Junior Program (ages 6–9) builds on those basics with weekly clinics, mentorship from advanced juniors, and access to a dedicated three-hole course. Participants can even play the full course on weekend evenings when accompanied by an adult.
• From ages 9–18, golfers can participate in Junior Clinics, offered multiple times per week, focusing on skill development, course strategy, and more.
• For those looking to take their game to the next level, the Advanced Junior Program offers winter training, a March Break trip to Pinehurst, and competitive junior tournament experience, all backed by year-round coaching and full club access.

A Legacy in Action

At Shelburne, junior golf is rooted in family. The club’s youth  programs were founded by Canadian golfer, Sam Young, a 2011 Ontario Golf Hall of Fame inductee. His daughter, who has taken over for him, explains that his commitment to junior development began decades ago, when he coached his very first junior Gar Hamilton, who was inducted alongside him.

Now led by his daughter, Megan Young, Shelburne continues that mission. “Golf has to have a future”, she says. “My dad spent his entire career teaching kids how to play. He believed that golf is a lifelong game, and if you teach someone to enjoy and succeed at it, they’ll play forever.”

That legacy is alive and well today, reflected in every child who picks up a club for the first time at Shelburne without worrying about common barriers like cost or accessibility.

By putting inclusion, accessibility, and passion at the heart of their programming, Shelburne Golf and Country Club is doing what all of us at Golf Ontario strive to do: shape lives through golf.

Ready to get your young golfer started? Click here to explore Shelburne’s Junior Golf programs.

South Muskoka, ON – The U15 Championship wrapped up in dramatic fashion at the South Muskoka Curling and Golf Club, with Bryce Burddige winning in a three-round playoff and Alexis Card delivering a flawless, wire-to-wire round to claim their championship titles. 

U15 Championship Results:

U15 Boys Champion: Bryce Burridge

After 18 holes, Bryce Burridge and Connor Sands were tied atop of the leaderboard. The championship title came down to a tense three-round playoff, where Burridge overcame with confident play, ultimately securing the win. 

• 1st Place: Bryce Burridge (Public Player Program – Ontario) – 140 (-4), Won in Playoff
• 2nd Place: Connor Sands (St. George’s Golf and Country Club) – 140 (-4)
• 3rd Place: Zixi Wang (Station Creek Golf Club) – 143 (-1)

U15 Girls’

Alexis Card led from start to finish, but not without pressure. Card was grouped with Sarah Xing in the final round, and the two stayed neck and neck throughout the day. In the end, Card pulled ahead to secure the win, while Xing, Evelyn Ma, and Andrea Lai all finished in a three-way tie for second place – highlighting the depth and talent in the Girls’ field.

• 1st Place: Alexis Card (Galt Country Club) – 141 (-3)

• 2nd Place: Sarah Xing (Station Creek Golf Club) – 144 (E), Evelyn Ma (Station Creek Golf Club) – 144 (E), Andrea Lai (St. Thomas Golf & Country Club) – 144 (E)

A Staple in Junior Golf Careers

The Ontario U15 Championship remains a key milestone for young golfers across the province. As a staple event in junior golf, it offers competitors valuable experience and a chance to measure themselves against the best players in their age group – a crucial step in the development of future champions.

Thank You to South Muskoka Curling and Golf Club

Golf Ontario extends a great thank you to South Muskoka Curling and Golf Club for hosting the 2025 Ontario U15 Championship. The club’s strong junior golf program is a valuable part of their community, and we appreciate their support in providing a great venue for this year’s event.

For full scores and leaderboard: https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/11301043162866305068

South Muskoka Curling & Golf Club is set to welcome Ontario’s top young golfers for the 2025 Ontario U15 Championship, running July 28 to July 29. Known for its premier facilities, stunning views, and commitment to junior golf, South Muskoka last hosted a provincial championship in 2023 and is once again ready to test the next wave of talent.

“South Muskoka Curling & Golf Club is a great venue for the Ontario U15 Championship because of its premier facilities, incredible course conditions, and a proven track record of hosting provincial championships,” says the Tournament Director, Antony Cluroe. “Success will require more than technical ability as players will need to thoroughly analyze each shot, creating a championship where strategy is just as important as skill.”

The field is packed with players to watch, including several rising stars:

• Sarah Xing (Players Club – Ottawa)
  • 2024 Ontario U13 Champion
  • 2025 Ontario Junior Girls’ Match Play Champion
• Oscar Lin (Station Creek Golf Club)
  • 2023 Ontario U13 Champion
• Alexis Card (Galt Country Club)
  • 2025 Golf Canada NextGen Quebec Champion
  • Team Ontario Member
  • Ranked 3rd on 2025 U15 Girls’ Junior Golf Pathway Rankings
  • Runner-up at 2024 Ontario U15 Championship
• Wilson Doornekamp (Cataraqui Golf & Country Club)
  • 2024 Ontario U13 Champion
• Evelyn Ma (Station Creek Golf Club)
  • Runner-up at 2025 Ontario Junior Girls’ Amateur Championship
  • 4th at 2025 Ontario Junior Girls’ Spring Classic
  • 4th at 2025 Golf Canada NextGen Ontario Championship
  • Ranked 2nd on 2025 U15 Girls’ Junior Golf Pathway Rankings

Nine athletes from Golf Ontario’s Next Wave Development Program will be in the field: Ava Gilbart, Andrea Lai, William Chen, Chi-Shen Lin, Katherine Xia, Grace Kim, Kaeleigh Chung, Evelyn Ma, and Cadence Tanouye.

While winning is a goal, the U15 Championship offers far more than a chance at the title. Players at this level gain meaningful experience in a competitive setting, helping prepare them for the next steps in their golf journey. It’s also a chance to build mental strength, learning how to manage pressure and stay composed under tournament conditions.

With a strong field, an elite venue, and a focus on development, the 2025 Ontario U15 Championship promises to be a highlight of the junior golf season.

Stay Connected  

For full tournament results and leaderboards: https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/11301043163638057005

For updates, highlights, and live scoring throughout the tournament, follow along @thegolfontario on Instagram, Facebook

After three days of competitive play at the stunning Lora Bay Golf Club, the 90th Ontario Men’s Senior Amateur Championship has come to a close, crowning champions in both the Overall Senior Men’s Division and the 70-and-Over Division.

Taking place from July 22–24, the championship brought together the province’s top senior golfers, all competing for a provincial title on one of Ontario’s most scenic and challenging courses. 

Overall Senior Men’s Champion: Ashley Chinner

Ashley Chinner emerged at the top of the leaderboard in the overall division, finishing with rounds of 70, 68, and 70 for a three-day total of 208 (-8) over 54 holes. The Coppinwood Golf Club-based player and Golf Ontario hall of fame member showed precision off the tee, sharp iron play, and the composure of a champion to earn his second Ontario Senior title.

Past champions in the field included names like Dave Bunker (2020, 2024) and Adam Creighton (2023), making this year’s title one of the most competitive. 

• 2nd Place: Mike Kray (Rattlesnake Point Golf Club) – 213 (-3)
• 3rd Place: Don Martone (Crimson Ridge Golf Club) – 214 (-2)

70-and-over Champion: Tim Lee 

In the 70-and-Over Division, Tim Lee of Beverly Golf & Country Club captured the title with rounds of 74, 74, and 79, finishing at 227 (+11). The veteran golfer outlasted a strong group of experienced players and celebrated the achievement with his first-ever hole-in-one during the first round of the tournament.

• 2nd Place: Rob Myhill – 231 (+15)
• 3rd Place: Peter Baldasso – 235 (+19)

65-and-Over Division Champion: Lars Melander

In the 65-and-Over category, Lars Melander of Oakville Golf Club posted an impressive three-round total of 221 (+5), with scores of 72, 74, and 75. Melander’s consistent play stood out in a strong age bracket and highlighted the depth of talent across all divisions in this year’s championship.

Thank You to Lora Bay

Golf Ontario extends its sincere thanks to Lora Bay Golf Club, its staff, and volunteers for helping deliver another successful championship. The venue, with its elevated fairways and Georgian Bay backdrop, proved once again to be a true test for Ontario’s top senior amateurs.

For full scores and leaderboard: https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/11292481570662828158

Championship Photo Album

Photos, highlights, and final round content: @thegolfontario on Instagram and Facebook.

Barrie, ON – Dimitri Protopapas of The Nest at Friday Harbour and Sarah Xing of Players Club – Ottawa were crowned the 2025 Junior Boys and Girls Match Play Champions.

In the Junior Boys category, No. 20 seed Dimitri Protopapas secured the win over Team Ontario’s No. 11 seed Joseph Totino (Summit Golf & Country Club) with a 3-hole lead and two holes remaining win, capping off three days of intense, multi-round match play.

Protopapas’ run was defined by poise and precision across a demanding stretch of match play—his ability to stay composed and deliver under pressure propelled him to the title past 63 other competitors.

In the Junior Girls category, top-seeded Sarah Xing capped off an exceptional week with a 2 & 1 victory over No. 2 seed Andrea Lai (St. Thomas Golf & Country Club Ltd) to claim the Match Play title. Xing remained steady throughout the final, holding off a determined push from Lai to close out the match on the 18th hole.

Xing’s road to the championship was dominant from start to finish. She opened with a tight 1-up win, then cruised to a 5 & 4 quarterfinal victory. In the semis, she continued her form with a 4 & 3 win to set up the final. Across three days of intense competition, Xing showcased elite course management, precision under pressure, and the composure of a champion to win over 31 other competitors.

Golf Ontario would like to extend a sincere thank you to the volunteers, officials, and Settlers’ Ghost staff for their support and hospitality throughout the week. Their efforts were instrumental in delivering a world-class experience.

Stay Connected

For full Boys results, click HERE

For full Girls results, click HERE

Championship Photo Album

For updates, highlights, and live scoring throughout the tournament, follow along @thegolfontario on Instagram, Facebook.

For siblings Fereka and Ali Mehrabani, volunteering with Golf Ontario has become much more than a one-time experience—it’s grown into a meaningful way to connect with each other, embrace Canadian culture, and find a new passion in the game of golf.

Their journey began with a simple online search.

“I first discovered Golf Ontario while exploring popular sports in Canada online,” says Fereka. “As I browsed through their website, I was immediately drawn in—not just by the sport itself, but by the organization’s incredible commitment to community, youth development, and sportsmanship. Seeing that they welcomed volunteers made me feel genuinely excited. I knew right away that I wanted to be part of something that goes beyond the game—something that brings people together and builds lasting impact. Volunteering with Golf Ontario has been truly inspiring for both me and my brother.”

Their story as newcomers to Canada adds another layer of meaning to their involvement.

“Our journey to Canada began with a memorable visit in early 2020. I was pregnant at the time, and we had come to explore a new place and prepare for the birth of our daughter. Not long after we arrived, the world changed—COVID-19 hit, and life in Canada, like everywhere else, came to a pause. Despite the uncertainty, one of the most meaningful moments of our lives happened here: I gave birth to my daughter in Canada.”

“In September 2021, we returned—this time for a longer chapter. I came as an international student, together with my husband and our daughter, ready to build a life in this new country. Then in May 2024, my brother joined us, also as an international student.”

“We’re originally from Tehran, Iran, but over time, Canada has begun to feel like home. Volunteering with Golf Ontario has been one of the most inspiring ways we’ve connected with the community. It’s given us purpose, belonging, and a deeper appreciation for the spirit of Canadian life.”

It wasn’t long before volunteering turned into a shared journey between the two siblings. After helping at a qualifying event last year, Fereka encouraged her brother Ali to join her this season.

“I knew it would be a great chance for both of us to learn, grow, and connect—not only with each other, but with the wider community through sport.”

Together, they volunteered at the 2025 Ontario Junior Boys Spring Classic held May 18–20 at Wooden Sticks Golf Course—a memory that continues to stand out.

Their personal and educational backgrounds have played a big role in shaping how they show up as volunteers.

“Growing up in Iran, where life came with many challenges, I naturally developed a deep appreciation for structure and strong values,” says Fereka. “I attended gifted and talented high schools, where I was trained to be disciplined, organized, and resilient. My family played a big role too—my mother, in particular, has always been a source of inspiration. She’s a devoted and determined woman who constantly motivated me to stay focused and never give up, no matter the circumstances. Later on, my husband’s strength and support further reinforced the importance of integrity, responsibility, and perseverance in my life. All these experiences have shaped the way I approach both personal and professional life—with purpose, structure, and strong values at the core.”

She explains that Ali’s values were shaped by a different kind of resilience.

“My brother’s connection to structure and values comes from a very personal place,” she continues. “He had a difficult childhood, facing severe health issues that required numerous surgeries and constant medical care. Despite those challenges, he remained incredibly strong and resilient. Living with such uncertainty at a young age taught him the importance of routine, discipline, and mental strength. These experiences shaped him into someone who values stability, perseverance, and integrity. That inner strength and sense of purpose continue to guide him today—in both his studies and community involvement.”

That shared foundation helped them connect instantly with the Golf Ontario volunteer community.

“What truly left an impression on us was seeing how focused, organized, and deeply committed all the volunteers were,” says Ali. “Everyone knew their role, took it seriously, and worked together so seamlessly. It was inspiring to witness that level of dedication.”

Whether assisting with timing or directing players, the siblings were struck by the warmth of their fellow volunteers.

“Many of them had been volunteering with Golf Ontario for years, and their passion was contagious,” adds Fereka. “We realized we weren’t just helping at a sports event—we were becoming part of a community that values excellence, teamwork, and respect for the game.”

Their time on the course also gave them a newfound respect for the sport itself.

“Before, it was just a sport we occasionally heard about,” says Ali. “But now we see the strategy, discipline, and etiquette that make it so special. We’ve even started thinking about taking lessons ourselves!”

Even more meaningful was the time they spent volunteering together.

“This was our first time teaming up for a sports event, and it was a whole new kind of fun,” says Fereka. “We split up tasks, backed each other up during busy moments, and shared lots of laughs—especially when things got hectic.”

“It brought us closer as siblings,” adds Ali. “It was a great mix of learning, teamwork, and fun. We’re already looking forward to doing it again.”

Golf Ontario’s volunteers are at the heart of everything we do, from championships and rules to course rating and governance. Passionate people like Fereka and Ali Mehrabani bring energy, perspective, and community spirit to every event.

Interested in joining the Golf Ontario volunteer family?
Find your opportunity on our Volunteering Resource Page HERE