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.
