Golf Canada and the Golf Canada Foundation are pleased to announce that Susan Wright-Cassan of Thunder Bay, Ont. and Carly Crooks of Scarborough, Ont. have been named the 2024 recipients of the Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards.

Following a national call for nominations to the Canadian golf community, Wright-Cassan and Crooks were identified by the selection committee as recipients of the Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards. The recognition celebrates a pair of individuals who demonstrated excellence in using golf as a platform to positively impact their communities.

“On behalf of Golf Canada and the Golf Canada Foundation, we are very proud to recognize Susan Wright-Cassan and Carly Crooks as our 2024 Lorie Kane Community Spirt Award recipients,” said David McCarthy, President, Golf Canada. “Nominations were brought forth from across the country highlighting the many contributions of passionate individuals who willingly give their time to inspire others through the game of golf. Congratulations to Susan and to Carly for this deserved honour and we thank them for their continued contributions to the sport in their communities.”

Wright-Cassan has been named the recipient of the 2024 Lorie Kane Community Leader Award, having made a significant impact in her community where she has been volunteering for over 20 years. Wright-Cassan currently serves as the President of Golf Manitoba and is a member of the Emerald Greens Golf Course and Driving Range in Thunder Bay, Ont. Wright-Cassan earned her community coaching certificate from First Tee and has been teaching junior golf and supporting the introductory First Tee – Canada program in Thunder Bay. Among her many contributions to the game, she has organized a variety of programming including “Golf in Schools” for over 1000 students, “Summer Camps for Kids”, the “Thunder Bay Queens”, “Try Golf Day” held in conjunction with the Thunder Bay Multi-Cultural Association and the Superior North Ladies Golf Association which has an outreach of 800 kms. Last year, Golf Manitoba presented Wright-Cassan with her 20-year volunteer certificate in recognition of her involvement with course rating in Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario.

“I want to thank those that have supported me in my golf endeavors. I am honoured to be the recipient of the 2024 Lori Kane Community Leader Award. I must thank the people with the First Tee Program and Golf in School, those that I’ve met teaching at the junior and adult levels, playing at club and competitive levels and especially to those that without thinking of it, have encouraged myself and others,” said Susan Wright-Cassan. “This is a game that I love both to play and share my passion. It is a game for all ages, juniors through senior. The social aspects at all ages, the discipline, self-imposed applications of the rules, health benefits, friendships developed and maintained over the years, and other countless benefits are a few of the reasons that I and many others are involved with the game. The Lorie Kane Community Leader Award will fuel me to carry on with the programs I’m involved with.”

Crooks has been named the recipient of the 2024 Lorie Kane Future Leader Award. The 21-year-old has dedicated her summers to coaching with First Tee – Canada, both in her community and across Ontario. After completing training as a First Tee – Canada coach in 2023, Crooks has coached in First Tee – Canada programming at the RBC Canadian Open, Golf Ontario’s Indigenous Try it Day, All-Girls First Tee along with programming at Tam O’Shanter Golf Course in Scarborough, Ont.

“Winning this award is so exciting, and I couldn’t have done it without the amazing people in my corner,” said Carly Crooks. “Shout out to my coach, Sean Burke, for always pushing me to be better, and to my parents for their endless support. My twin sister has been with me through everything, and I’m especially grateful to the First Tee – Ontario team for getting me involved.”

Wright-Cassan will receive a $5,000 donation from the Golf Canada Foundation to advance a golf program or golf-related initiative of her choice. Crooks will receive a $5,000 donation towards her post-secondary education. Wright-Cassan and Crooks will be honoured during the RBC Hall of Fame Day in August during the CPKC Women’s Open at Mississaugua Golf and Country Club in Mississauga, Ont.

Submissions for the Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards were evaluated by a selection committee that includes representatives from Golf Canada, the Golf Canada Foundation, Honoured Members of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame, industry representatives and the Golf Journalists Association of Canada.  

The Lorie Kane Community Leader Award celebrates individuals over the age of 19 with a demonstrated ability to lead community initiatives; who have contributed a measurable impact through volunteerism or charity; or have showcased excellence in their involvement with, or support of youth programs such as First Tee – Canada or other junior golf activities.

The Lorie Kane Future Leader Award honours a young individual who embodies community leadership; has a history of sportsmanship or demonstrated activities to make the game more inclusive; or an individual who has used golf to create a meaningful impact in their community.

The Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards were named to honour the Canadian golf icon for a longstanding commitment to advancing the sport, charitable work and giving back to the game that defined her Hall of Fame career. Kane is a member of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Canada Sports Hall of Fame as well as a recipient of the Order of Canada.

A call for nominations for the 2025 Lorie Kane Community Spirit Awards will go out later this year.

Golf Ontario is thrilled to announce the 2025 Next Wave Junior Development Program, a premier initiative designed to help young golfers in Ontario sharpen their skills and reach their full potential. 

This program blends expert training with continuous support, providing a strong foundation for Ontario’s rising golf stars to thrive in competitive play.  

“There are so many good, young golfers in Ontario and it is so valuable to expose them to the Team Ontario coaches, support systems and culture,” says Reggie Millage, Team Ontario Head Coach. “The athletes in our Next Wave program can choose the elements that are most important to them and fill out all aspects of their training regimen,” he says, adding, “We want Ontario to shine on the national and international stage and this group are definitely on their way to making that happen.”  

Selected athletes will gain access to top-tier coaching, mental performance training, and strength conditioning, setting them up for long-term success. 

Meet the 2025 Next Wave Athletes 

The following talented junior golfers have been selected for the 2025 program: 

Class of 2029:

• Ava Gilbert – Summit Golf & Country Club | Coach: Sean Burke (PGA of Canada) 

• Andrea Lai – St. Thomas Golf & Country Club 

 Class of 2028:

• Regan Andrusyk – Hamilton Golf & Country Club 

• Andrew Sudicky – St. Thomas Golf & Country Club | Coaches: Mark Elliott (Pga of Canada), Tristan Mullally (PGA of Canada) 

• Payton Pattison – Colonnade Golf & Country Club | Coach: Matt Robinson (PGA of Canada) 

• Stella Lim – Wyndance Golf Club | Coaches: Alexa Kim (PGA of Canada), Jason Helman (PGA of Canada) 

• Chloe Hassberger – Vespra Hills Golf Club | Coaches: Shana Kelly (PGA of Canada), Doug Lawrie (PGA of Canada) 

• Evelyn Ma – Station Creek Golf Club 

• Cadence Tanouye – Lionhead Golf Club 

Class of 2027:

• Sarah Du – Meadowbrook Golf & Country Club | Coach: Doug Lawrie (PGA of Canada) 

• Zach Lederer – Emerald Hills Golf Club | Coach: Danny King (PGA of Canada) 

• David Kowalewski – The Nest Golf Club | Coach: Terry O’Brien (PGA of Canada) 

• Narisse Daye – Sarnia Golf and Curling Club | Coach: Mike Martz (PGA of Canada) 

• Edward Li – Rocky Crest Golf Club | Coach: Gord Burns (PGA of Canada) 

• Brennan Turner – Rockway Golf Club 

• Gracie Vescan – Mississauga Golf & Country Club | Coach: James Hutchison (PGA of Canada) 

• Karson Hurlbert – Camelot Golf and Country Club | Coach: Lee Curry (PGA of Canada) 

Class of 2026:

• Michael Vivone – Royal Ottawa Golf Club | Coach: Matt DeJohn (PGA of Canada) 

• Landon Van Loon – Upper Canada Golf Course | Coach: Tristan Mullally (PGA of Canada) 

• Tristan Zhang – Summit Golf & Country Club | Coach: Trevor Wallman (PGA of Canada) 

• Lucas Gilbart – Summit Golf & Country Club | Coach: Sean Burke (PGA of Canada) 

• Ceilidh Spare – Rideau View Golf Club | Coach: Matt Robinson (PGA of Canada) 

• Connor Kanellis – Coppinwood Golf Club | Coach: Gord Burns (PGA of Canada) 

Class of 2030: 

• William Chen – Bayview Golf & Country Club 

• Chi-shen Lin 

• Katherine Xia – St. Andrew Valley Country Club | Coach: David Fritz (PGA of Canada) 

• Grace Kim – Glencairn Golf Club | Coach: Justin Kim (PGA of Canada) 

• Kaeleigh Chung – Meadowbrook Golf & Country Club | Coach: Gord Burns (PGA of Canada)

Program Benefits

Next Wave athletes receive exclusive access to: 

• Coaching support from Team Ontario Head Coach, Reggie Millage (PGA of Canada) 

• Mental performance training with Dr. Charles Fitzsimmons 

• Strength & conditioning coaching by Dr. Nick Martichenko 

• adidas Golf Canada apparel 

• Access to the TaylorMade Performance Lab 

• Participation in Team Ontario programs like Training Days, March Break Training Camp, and Spring Training Camp

Selection Process 

Athletes are chosen based on their competitive results and rankings from the previous season within the U13, U15, and U17 divisions of the Junior Golf Pathway. 

Golf Ontario is excited to partner with Metro Golf Sportsplex to launch the 2025 season of the 1000 Ball Challenge with an electrifying kickoff event! After smashing fundraising records in 2024, we’re looking forward to hosting an unforgettable day of golf, music, food, contests, and incredible prizes—all in support of the GOLF FOR ALL Fund – a fund to financially support the advancement of critical golf programs in Ontario.

“The 1000 Ball Challenge was a fantastic event that brought our golf community together while making a real difference for our Junior Development programs at Hamilton Golf & Country Club. The energy, excitement, and camaraderie throughout the event were incredible, and the funds we raised are directly helping us develop the next generation of golfers.

I highly recommend this challenge to fellow golf professionals looking for a unique and engaging way to support their own programs. It’s a fun and rewarding experience that benefits both your club and the future of the game!”

– Brad Lawrence, Associate Golf Professional, Hamilton Golf & Country Club

Event Details

📅 Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
⏰Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍Location: Metro Golf Sportsplex (125 Milner Ave, Scarborough, ON)

How to Participate

1. Register as an individual or team for the 1000 Ball Challenge.
2.  Fundraise a minimum of $1,000 before April 26 to secure your spot.
3. Come to the Metro Golf Sportsplex on April 26 and join the fun!

Exciting Contests & Prizes

Longest Drive Challenge (Men’s & Women’s): Win a foursome at Wooden Sticks Golf Club

Target Contest: Win a foursome to Cranberry Golf Course
First to Hit 500 Balls: Score a $250 Adidas Gift Card
Plus raffles and more prizes to be announced!

Your Impact

Funds raised will support Golf Ontario’s Golf For All Fund, advancing golf programming for all in this province.

If you are a non-profit or have golf initiatives you are passionate about – please inquire about the 1000 Ball Challenge fundraising share.

🔗 Register today and start fundraising! Visit www.1000ball.ca/kickoff

For questions, contact Raph at rroot@gao.ca.

Don’t miss this thrilling season kickoff—challenge yourself, give back, and get a head start on the season! ⛳

This past weekend at the Toronto Golf & Travel Show, visitors of the Golf Ontario booth took their best shot at guessing the number of golf balls in the aquarium tank. The competition was fierce, but one lucky winner came out on top—congratulations to Brian Mitgang, who guessed 926, closest to the exact number of 924!

Brian’s keen eye (or lucky guess!) earned him an incredible prize of 5 dozen TaylorMade TP5 MySymbol golf balls. A huge thank you to everyone who participated—we hope to see you all again next year!

Golf Ontario is excited to be on location at the Toronto Golf & Travel Show this weekend! Visit our booth for a chance to win 5 dozen TaylorMade MySymbol golf balls by correctly guessing the number of balls in the glass tank. Plus, get all the details on the highly anticipated 1000 Ball Challenge Kickoff Event, launching this April at the Metro Golf Sportsplex. Find out how you can get involved and WIN a Foursome to Wooden Sticks Golf Club, Adidas Gift Cards and more! Visit to www.1000ball.ca/kickoff to learn more.

Golf Ontario experts from Rules & Competitions, Junior Performance, Participation, and Memberships will also be on-site, ready to answer any golf-related questions.

As an added bonus, attendees can enjoy a $5 discount on their tickets by using the code GOLF25 when purchasing online.

The event takes place at The International Centre, Hall 5, in Mississauga, from Friday, January 31, to Sunday, February 2. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to connect with fellow golf enthusiasts, test your skills, and gear up for the upcoming season! Get your tickets now at www.torontogolfshow.com/tickets.

The International Centre
6900 Airport Road, Hall 5, Mississauga ON L4V 1E8

Show Hours:
Friday Jan 31 Noon – 7pm
Saturday February 1 10am – 5pm
Sunday February 2 10am – 4pm

Cam and Charlie Burke were crowned the Champions at Oakdale Golf & Country Club, capturing the Ontario Men’s Better Ball Championship.

Coming in hot off this year’s Ontario and Canadian Men’s Mid-Am championship wins, Cam and his father Charlie emerged victorious after defeating Connor Rochon and Owen Allen (Weston Golf & Country Club) in an intense six-hole playoff. Both teams had a better-ball score of 6-under-par 66.

Ty Wadsworth and Brad Wadsworth (Bellmere Winds Golf Resort) tied for third place with Gordon Gibson and Brett Geiser of Cedar Brae Golf Club with a score of 5-under-par for a total of 67.

56 teams (112 players) participated in the one-day event. Established in 1959, the Ontario Men’s Better Ball Championship has a long history at Oakdale Golf & Country Club.

For all final results, CLICK HERE.

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