The 2026 Alberta Golf High Performance Program Explained
The 2026 Alberta Golf High Performance Program athletes were announced on December 1 based on the set 2025 Performance Criteria. The 98 players who made the list among Tiers 2 and 3 are some of the top players within the province and we’re looking forward to watching their continued development in 2026.
Identified players can be viewed using the link below.
About the Program
The objective of the program is to support identified players reach their developmental and competitive goals while providing guidance in securing the most appropriate post-secondary golf scholarship.
The program aims to achieve this through supporting athletes, coaches, parents, and facilities through a tiered identification program that provides developmental training opportunities, competition guidance, and funding support for players who qualify.
Alberta Golf is committed to developing well rounded individuals as well as high performing athletes. The core values of the program are inclusiveness, respect, ethical practices and support. Ensuring these values are in place is critical to the success of Alberta golfers.
This year’s program has some minor changes including the naming of the tiers and adjusted age eligibility for players. We’re pleased to announce the 2026 criteria that will be used to identify the 2027 high performance athletes’ next fall. We’ve also created documents that will help parents, players and coaches to better understand how players achieve tier status.
Performance Criteria: Explained
The performance criteria established for each tier are meticulously selected based on a range of predetermined requirements. These criteria ensure alignment with the Alberta Golf Competitive Roadmap and incorporate identified and ranked WAGR (World Amateur Golf Ranking) and JGS (Junior Golf Scoreboard) events. The focus is on providing athletes with opportunities at the local, provincial, national, and international levels, with an emphasis on Alberta Golf and Alberta-based competitions, alongside regional and national Golf Canada championships.
The accompanying spreadsheet details the factors influencing the selection of placement requirements at the chosen events for each tier level. A primary focus in establishing the result criteria is the WAGR ranking of the event and the total field size. Based on these parameters, a specific finish, defined as a percentage of the overall field, is established for each tier, outlining the precise required placement to meet the criteria for that event.
For Alberta Golf events and selected NextGen events, the required results have been ‘boosted’ to create additional opportunities for players to achieve these standards. For example, in the Alberta Girls U19 event, which features a field of 30 players, the top 30% are recognized for achievement. Initially determined to require a top 9 finish, the boost increases the required result to a top 15 finish, thereby enhancing opportunities for participants to succeed and encouraging broader participation in provincial and regional events.
The performance criteria events and placing requirements are reviewed each season and required or necessary changes are made and communicated accordingly.
Female Performance Criteria Breakdown
Male Performance Criteria Breakdown
Tier Names and Criteria
Tier 1 – International
Tier 1 players are those who excel at the national level, consistently achieving winning results. They are well-acquainted with national championships, regularly finishing in the top 10, and have celebrated victories in provincial championships. These players are on the brink of reaching their full potential as golfers and receive high-level coaching support to refine their skills.
Tier 2 – National
Tier 2 players consistently compete at the national level, successfully making the cut in national championships. At the provincial level, they are strong contenders in provincial championships and often represent Alberta on inter-provincial teams during national competitions. While they are still in development, these players possess well-defined golf games and focus on specific, actionable areas for growth, backed by substantial coaching support in most cases.
Tier 3 – Provincial
Tier 3 players primarily participate at the provincial level, successfully making the cut in provincial championships. They are in the developmental stage of their golfing journey, working on building their overall games and gaining competition experience at various local and provincial levels. They benefit from the mentorship of club professionals and junior leaders for guidance in their development.
Tier 4 – Club
Tier 4 players are juniors competing at the club level, participating in club events and junior mini-tours, while receiving guidance from their local PGA professionals. They are focused on honing their skills and gaining valuable experience in a supportive environment.
Age Eligibility
To ensure alignment with the program’s objectives, Tier 3 is now a U19 category which is split into 4 age identified categories: U19, U17, U15, & U13. These players are in the key development stages, and this age eligibility adjustment ensures the appropriate resources are applied to Alberta junior golfers.
Tier’s 1 and 2 are now reserved for those who are active university golfers or younger to continue the support of players who’ve come through the program and are currently on post-secondary golf scholarships.
High-Performance Summits
With the 2026 identified athletes being named, Alberta Golf is pleased to announce the first two developmental opportunities for the athletes, the 2026 High-Performance Summits.
The summits aim to provide valuable insights into the Alberta Golf High Performance program, as well as opportunities for parents and players to engage with esteemed guest speakers. Past speakers have focused on crucial topics such as mental performance, fitness, game development and past experiences as professional athletes.
The summit details are below. Both summits begin at 11:30am and finish at 4:30pm with lunch being provided to parents and athletes.
Calgary Region Summit – Saturday, January 10th at the Heritage Pointe Golf Club
CALgary region hp summit registration
Edmonton Region Summit – Saturday, January 17th at the Windermere Golf & Country Club
EDmonton region hp Summit Registration
Any questions about the 2026 Alberta Golf High Performance Program, please connect with John Deneer, john@albertagolf.org.
Alberta Golf seeking new candidates for Board of Directors – A Q&A with Vice President Kendra Koss
Alberta Golf and its Board of Directors are seeking qualified candidates to fill upcoming vacancies on the Board. The Board of Directors serves as a strategic governance body, providing high-level guidance on long-term priorities and ensuring strong governance of Alberta Golf’s operational team.
Our Board has the ultimate responsibility to ensure Alberta Golf remains accountable to all stakeholders. This includes the development and oversight of our strategic plan as well as the fiduciary duties that come with good governance, including monitoring our financial health and managing risks.
Phil Berube, Alberta Golf CEO
As the provincial sport organization for golf in Alberta, Alberta Golf is a registered not-for-profit society representing more than 64,000 members. In partnership with Golf Canada, the national sport organization, we work to maintain golf’s position as Canada’s leading recreational activity. We are committed to preserving the integrity of the game at over 200 golf courses across the province and to promoting golf as an inclusive sport for all participants.
The Board convenes 10 to 12 times per year, including quarterly meetings, fundraising activities, committee sessions, and other engagements. Alberta Golf is particularly interested in applicants in this cycle with expertise in finance and/or human resources. Previous experience serving on a board of directors would be considered an asset.
I think what I enjoy most about seeing how our current Board of Directors interact with one another is the high level of respect they have for one another, the diversity of thought and opinions that emerge from their dialogue, and the confidence they demonstrate as individuals in asking the tough questions.
Phil Berube, Alberta Golf CEO
Current Vice President, Kendra Koss, provides insight with a brief Q&A to share what motivates her, what she enjoys about her role, and why she believes others should consider applying to serve on the Alberta Golf Board of Directors.
1. How long have you served on the board at Alberta Golf and how did you get started?
I have served on the Alberta Golf Board since 2018. I am a passionate golfer, as well as parent of a previous high-performance player and very active at my club in all aspects of committee work as well as serving two terms on the Board. I was approached to consider the Alberta Golf Board and was keen to get involved at the Provincial Association level.
2. What was the driving force behind being a member of the board?
There were several factors that motivated me to become a board member. First, I wanted to give back to a sport that has given so much to me and my family. I was also excited about the opportunity to help shape policy and guide the strategic direction of the provincial sport association, while supporting and strengthening good governance. Lastly, I hoped to serve as an advocate for players and volunteers, and to help the organization navigate unforeseen or emerging challenges.
3. What do you enjoy about being on the board? What is the most rewarding aspect of serving on our Board of Directors?
I enjoy being on the board because it allows me to see the positive impact our work has on players, volunteers, and the broader golfing community. I also value the collaborative environment—working closely with our leadership team, management, and fellow directors is both energizing and inspiring. Serving on a policy and strategy-focused board has provided significant opportunities for personal growth and learning, which I find incredibly rewarding. Finally, staying connected to the game I love at a provincial and national level, and contributing to the ongoing growth of the Alberta Golf legacy, is one of the most meaningful aspects of my role.
4. What general experience does someone need to serve on the board? Are there particular skill sets or experiences that we’re looking to add to our board?
The Nominating Committee has developed a formal recruitment process, that utilizes a skills matrix as well as some diversity targets. Ideal candidates have some previous experience with Boards of Directors and an understanding of our governance model where we focus on strategy and policy and leave operations to the management team. We are looking to add depth to our board and required backgrounds. We will be losing 3 seasoned directors in the coming months and have big shoes to fill! We will have a specific vacancy in human resources and will be looking to find a director with that background.
5. Why should people apply to be a member of the Alberta Golf Board of Directors?
People should consider applying to the Alberta Golf Board of Directors because it offers a meaningful opportunity to give back to the sport and to contribute to the future of golf in our province. It’s an excellent role for those who want to help shape and advance Alberta Golf’s vision, bring fresh perspectives, and influence high-level decisions that support the sport’s long-term success.
On a personal level, serving on the board is also a chance to connect with passionate, like-minded individuals while continuing to learn, grow, and develop as a leader. For anyone who wants to make a genuine impact while being part of a dedicated and engaged community, the Alberta Golf Board of Directors is an ideal place to get involved.
For anyone interested in the process or applying to become a member of our Board of Directors, please click on the links below and send any questions to phil@albertagolf.org.
Bigger Than The Game – The Adamis Family Story
As a parent, there’s nothing more rewarding than watching your child succeed. For Jennifer Tse, that joy runs especially deep as her 13-year-old daughter, Rachel Adamis, has become an exceptional young golfer — winning 11 stops on the McLennan Ross Alberta Junior Tour in 2025. But there’s far more to Rachel’s story than her talent on the course.
“Rachel started golfing when she was 3 years old, she was in her first Junior Golf camp at the Derrick Club. The first time she hit her golf ball with a putter and the ball moved 15 feet, she was so excited. Rachel started jumping up and down and cheering. She was hooked from that moment on. Since then, she would always ask to do more golf camps and classes.“
Since those early days, golf has meant more to Rachel than just competition. “Golf has provided Rachel the opportunity to make new friends,” Jennifer explains. “She can talk about golf all the time, and her golf friends are just as excited to join in.” Beyond the friendships, Rachel loves the peaceful views and the sense of calm she finds on every new course she visits.
What began as a fun family activity has grown into something transformative. Golf has taught Rachel valuable life lessons, and just like life, there are both good and bad moments, the key is to keep moving forward.
“Rachel has high functioning Autism. She has difficulties interacting with people and making friends. Golf has helped Rachel navigate life challenges through her disability by providing her opportunities to meet like-minded people so she can work on her communication and socialization skills.“
When Rachel first played on the McLennan Ross Alberta Junior Tour in 2024, she was shy and rarely spoke to the other girls. Fast forward to 2025, and she’s not only a top competitor but also a social spark — regularly coming home with new friends and planning get-togethers outside of golf.
“Rachel’s autism provides her the strength of Hyperfocus. During golf tournaments, Rachel can focus so hard and tune out all other stimuli allowing her to golf better than her handicap. This Hyperfocus also gives Rachel Nerves of Steel. She is even more confident when she plays tournaments and thrives under pressure.“
For Jennifer, the greatest reward isn’t just Rachel’s victories — it’s watching her daughter blossom socially and emotionally through golf.
“Rachel met her best friend Nha Truong at the Edmonton Golf Association Junior Golf Tournament in July 2025. Watching the girls holding hands and skipping down the fairway during the golf tournament just melted my heart.“
Rachel’s excellence on the course continued this past September at the Alberta All Abilities Championship, an event created in 2023 to give golfers with disabilities a chance to compete and connect. Rachel shot her two best rounds of the year — including breaking 80 for the first time — and finished second in the Net Division.
But golf’s impact reaches even deeper for Rachel and her family. In 2021, Rachel’s father passed away from cancer, a devastating loss for the family. In addition to the confidence it has built for Rachel, it became a tool to help the family bond through additional challenges.
“Rachel was heartbroken when her dad died of cancer in 2021. Her dad used to drive her in a power cart at the Derrick club and watch her golf. Their favorite hole was the water hole. Late in the evening when the course was quiet, the two of them would try to hit as many balls as possible over the water. After the passing of her father, Rachel wanted to golf more, and golfing kept us busy and focused. It helped us both mourn our loss and allowed us bonding time to strengthen our relationship.“
Rachel’s twin brother Maxim lives with severe autism and following their father’s death had to move into a group home due to safety concerns. Yet golf has continued to bring the family together.
“Golf has been so therapeutic for Rachel and our family. Golfing outside and being in nature has helped ground us and eased our grieving. The Derrick Club has been so accommodating to our family. Maxim, with his Autism service dog Jefferson, will walk with us on the golf course at The Derrick Club when Rachel is playing practice rounds. Golfing is one of the few activities the twins can share and be safe together.”
Rachel’s dedication to the game is evident. She now practices every day with her best friend, Nha. “Rachel went from a 40 Handicap Index in June 2024 to an 11.9 in September 2025,” Jennifer proudly shares. “Her confidence has grown so much — she’s no longer shy and often does a little ‘happy dance’ after hitting a great shot.”
The staff and members at The Derrick Golf & Winter Club have been an incredible support system. “The course has become a second home,” Jennifer says. “Everyone goes out of their way to interact with Rachel. Many of the female members invite her to play, and she was even asked to play in the club’s Solheim Cup — where she contributed 11 of a possible 12 points for her team.”
One of Rachel’s biggest mentors has been Adam Werbicki, who has coached her since she first started golfing. He’s become a father figure and an instrumental part of Rachel’s development, both on and off the course.
It takes a village to raise a child, and Rachel’s village is full of champions. Her former teacher, Mrs. Tara Jones, at George P. Nicholson Elementary School, supported her passion by setting up a chipping net at recess and even attending her tournaments.
Now at Vimy Ridge School, Rachel is thriving in their Elite Program, which allows her to train with Coach Werbicki up to five times a week. This year, she’ll join the school’s Junior High Golf Program.
As a single mom, Jennifer admits that balancing work and Rachel’s golf schedule is challenging, but she’s grateful for the help of Rachel’s grandfather, Kevin Morris, who often drives Rachel to practices and tournaments.
While Rachel and Jennifer have been forced to navigate some difficult challenges in life, the two of them are grateful for all that golf has provided this star junior. The friends, the self-confidence, the growth, and a haven. Most importantly, golf has provided them a bond forged through hardship and given Jennifer a lifetime of happy moments, capped off with the knowledge that golf has helped Rachel with the life skills to be an independent and confident young woman.
Alberta Golf Supports National Off-Course Golf Strategy to Grow the Game Year-Round
Aligned with Golf Canada’s newly launched national off-course strategy, Alberta Golf is proud to champion and connect with the expanding off-course golf community across the province.
Alberta Golf & Golf Canada endorse and support all forms of golf and are encouraging Canadians to experience the game year-round through off-course golf experiences.
These experiences include golf simulators, driving ranges, short game areas, mini golf, virtual reality golf and golf-themed video games that all provide opportunities to engage with the sport year-round. Complementing traditional green grass golf, off-course golf provides a continuity of golf experiences that can welcome new individuals into the sport in ways that best fit their lifestyle.
For Golf Canada’s Chief Marketing Officer Tim McLaughlin, the campaign is about having a presence wherever and however golf is being enjoyed.
“There has been an explosion in off-course golf options in our country, most notably golf simulators, and Golf Canada is excited to officially launch our off-course strategy. This initiative is reflective of the reality that an increasing number of Canadians are now participating in golf activity year-round in non-traditional venues like simulator facilities. Off-course golf has the potential to be transformational for our sport, combining fun and realistic golf experiences with affordable options that are accessible 12 months a year,” said McLaughlin. “This strategy acknowledges the way that Canadians are engaging with the game is evolving, and our intention is to create a greater connection between these new off-course formats and the broader golf landscape.”
As part of this strategy, Alberta Golf and Golf Canada are introducing a new Facility Membership Program designed specifically for off-course operators. Through this program off-course facilities will now be able to become official members of Golf Canada and have the ability to promote their operations to Canada’s largest and most engaged golf audience. Through this membership, facility owners gain new opportunities to boost participation, enhance engagement, and enjoy a range of valuable, year-round benefits.
It will also be easier for Canadians to find places to play off course. A comprehensive digital program promoting off-course golf will connect Canadians to Official Member Facilities of Golf Canada. Golfers will soon be able to log and track their off-course activity at simulators in the Golf Canada app beginning in early December. For more information or to download Canada’s number one golf app, click here.
The Just Swing campaign will support Golf Canada’s complete off-course strategy to have a presence wherever golf is being played. The campaign encourages Canadians to discover golf, anywhere, anytime and Just Swing, highlighting the many benefits the game can provide. This campaign is designed to re-frame perceptions of the sport by driving understanding that whether you pick up a club on a golf course or a simulator its all golf. The hope is to position the sport in a new way, particularly for new audiences who aren’t currently active golfers.
For more information on the Just Swing campaign, the benefits of off-course golf or to find a location near you, please visit golfcanada.ca/justswing.
Helpful Links
Alberta Golf’s Ghost Stories – Edmonton Country Club
Halloween may have come and gone, but Alberta’s golf courses are never short on ghost stories. One of the most haunting belongs to the Edmonton Country Club — the province’s oldest private golf club, established in 1896. Over its long and storied history, the club has witnessed it all: moves, renovations, robberies, and even murder.
Among those who once worked within its walls was Phyllis Carter, a dedicated cook who was in her first season at the club. But her life — and her marriage to Reginald Carter — would take a dark and tragic turn, forever tying her spirit to the very place she served so faithfully.
To this day, staff and guests alike have seen, heard, and felt the presence of spirits through the clubhouse after dark. Some say it’s nothing more than old stories… but others swear that Phyllis and Reginald Carter still walk the grounds.
Read on to uncover the chilling true story that left its mark on the Edmonton Country Club, from the club’s 125th anniversary publication.
The Story
In 1952, the club was still on the outskirts of the city, with employees often spending extended periods before heading back home. That was the case with Phyllis Carter, who was working in her first season as a cook at the club, having come to Canada from Essex, England, in 1951. Given the club’s proximity to the city, Carter lived in the staff quarters near the main clubhouse. Carter’s 18-year-old daughter also worked at the club.
On the morning of Friday, August 22, Carter’s husband, Reginald, a construction worker, appeared unannounced at the club, which was quiet. What led Reginald to head to the club is unclear; newspaper accounts provide no details as to his motive. Rumours at the club suggested he may have been concerned his wife was having an affair with the groundskeeper. Regardless, what played out after his arrival was shocking and generated headlines.
Thomas Molyneaux, the club’s head professional, saw Reginald there in the morning. Not that this was out of the ordinary-Reginald was known to visit his wife occasionally. Reginald stood by his car near the club gates and waved at Molyneaux as he walked towards the clubhouse.
Phyllis Carter had already been working for several hours by this point, having served breakfast to the staff before heading back to the clubhouse for more provisions.
The police contended Reginald Carter confronted his wife in the clubhouse, stabbing and strangling her. No one at the club was aware of what was happening, according to accounts. Later that morning, Molyneaux walked over the bridge that connected the tee to the 18th green, and saw a noose hanging on the bridge, but nothing else. Strangely, he doesn’t appear to have made much of this discovery, and it apparently didn’t concern him.
However, around noon, Peter Stiksma, who worked on the grounds crew, found Phyllis’s body. The Edmonton Journal accounts suggest there were two murder scenes— one in the kitchen, and one in a bedroom located nearby, indicating Phyllis may have tried to evade her husband. The paper said she was discovered “fully clothed,” with a butcher knife in her back and a sweater knotted around her neck. Frank O’Rourke, who also worked in course maintenance, saw the noose tied to the bridge, and unlike Molyneaux he was concerned enough to investigate, where he found a body in the ravine below, which police had difficulty getting down to remove. In all, it was a horrible scene.
Putting the situation together, it would appear Reginald confronted his wife, murdered her, and then, feeling remorseful, hanged himself on the bridge. However, Reginald had used a rope that was far too long in his suicide and was decapitated by the force of having dropped so far, which explains why there was a noose on the bridge, but no body. “The daughter, who spent Thursday night in the city with a sister, was informed of the tragedy when she returned to the club at noon Friday,” the paper reported.
An obituary in the Edmonton Journal noted the couple were survived by four children. The murder of Phyllis Carter created one of the great legends at the club: that her ghost continues to haunt the clubhouse to this day.
The Haunting
For decades after her death – right up until the time of writing of this book (2021) – staff and the occasional guest have been frightened by an apparition that many feel resides in the clubhouse. Those who have experienced the ghost say there’s a common thread -the presence is a woman in proximity to the kitchen.
On a chilly fall evening in 2003, Matthew Walker was busy with a small drywall job in the dining room. Everyone was gone for the day, and the radio was his only companion. Matthew had his back to the dining room as he worked, when he suddenly felt someone looking over his shoulder. He turned to see who it was this late in the evening. But no one was present, and he resumed his work until the same feeling came over him once again, only more strongly.
He quickly turned. But again, no one was there. He turned off the radio and began to listen, determining there were “chopping” sounds coming from the kitchen. Then he suffered something he had only read about in books – he was paralyzed by a shooting sensation up his spine and back of the neck. Instead of finding out who was in the kitchen, he backed away, grabbed his gear, and went home.
Matthew finished the wall the next day when there were plenty of people around. He looked in the kitchen with the General Manager Brad Pinnell to see what machine could make that sound and nothing fit. But Brad took Matthew seriously, as he’d had his own experience the year before.
In the spring of 2002, Brad and a server were the first to arrive for the day. With fresh coffee prepared, Brad went to grab a cup. He chatted amiably with the waitress about the day’s duties, all while doctoring his brew. The dining doors were wide open, and as Brad fixed his coffee and kept up his chatter, a woman walked past in the dining room. Grabbing his coffee and stirring as he went, Brad followed the woman into the dining room. But when he finally looked up, no one was there. Brad stood in confusion, gaping at the empty scene in front of him. Just then from behind him, the waitress entered the dining room. “The hair stood up on the back of my neck,” he said. It was a feeling Brad had never before experienced. He wondered who that woman had been.
The figure made itself known to many staffers over the years, including Assistant Manager Shirley Chalmers, who began work at the club in 1984. She was often alone in the office late in the evening, and during her first year on the job, she’d often hear chopping sounds from the kitchen or footsteps in the upstairs of the clubhouse, even though no other employees were working. For about five months, Shirley was the only occupant in the office when one fall evening she heard the unmistakeable banging sounds of someone sitting at the empty metal desk.
The experience unnerved her and she simply went home. But the issue continued and after one such experience, she approached General Manager Leo Blindenbach to ask what the cause of the noise might be. Blindenbach told her employees had often encountered what they felt was a ghost in the clubhouse, but it didn’t appear to have any hostile intent. Interestingly, that settled Chalmers’s nerves, and she was no longer bothered by the strange noises in the clubhouse. However, Phyllis might not be the only ghost that haunts the clubhouse.
On at least two separate occasions, wedding guests walking out on the bridge in the evening have told of seeing a headless body floating over the bridge. The visions have come with feelings of anger and despair.
In the fall of 2012, Beth Baker and a co-worker were working in the Snack Shack when they were spooked so badly, they had to flee. The music they were listening to began skipping songs and they heard a voice, apparently in mid-air, saying words they couldn’t decipher, leading the pair to run to the safety of the clubhouse.
Their experience isn’t unique; the staff working in the building at the end of the bridge often feel they are being watched, and many times locked doors swing open on their own. A few times, books fell off shelves, or the paper towels would unravel by themselves. Baker said her worst scare was at closing time on a calm Sunday evening in the fall. She heard the banging of the wooden table that was leaning against the back of one of the coolers.
Knowing it couldn’t make a sound without something moving it, Beth went to text her coworker about this latest ghostly incident. As she grabbed her phone, she felt someone blowing on her face. She sprinted outside, extremely shaken by the incident. After composing herself she went back to continue the closing up but felt the mood in the shack was angry and she was not welcome. She had to get someone from the clubhouse to help her conclude her tasks.
There are many stories of this nature and without records, it’s difficult to know when they began. But most people feel it’s related to the Carter deaths. A longstanding club surely has its ghosts, but in the case of Edmonton Country Club, they seem all too real.
Jackie Little and Cathy McMillan Inducted into the Alberta Golf Hall of Fame
History is at the heart of everything Alberta Golf does. For over 110 years, the Association has successfully hosted events for amateur golfers across the province. Since its inception, the competitors and builders of the game in Alberta have worked quietly but passionately to grow the sport. The Alberta Golf Hall of Fame exists to celebrate these individuals and bring their accomplishments into the spotlight.
This year, the Hall of Fame welcomed two new inductees in the Player Category – Jackie Little and Cathy McMillan, both remarkable champions who have made lasting contributions to the game of golf in Alberta and beyond.
The Evening
The celebration began with a Year in Review, showcasing the highlights of Alberta Golf’s 2025 season. Among them were Brett Jones’ impressive back-to-back Men’s Amateur victories, Saylar May’s rare double crown as both U17 and U19 Champion, and the introduction of the Women’s Division at the 89th Alberta Open Championship, won by Sydney Bisgrove.
Nine clubs across the province were also recognized for milestone anniversaries of 25, 50, 75, and 100 years. Notably, Jasper Park Lodge Golf Course celebrated its 100th anniversary — a remarkable achievement made even more meaningful after the devastating wildfires of the previous season. The milestone stands as a testament to the dedication of the club’s staff, members, and community stakeholders who have ensured its legacy endures.
Before the inductions, Doug Paterson was named 2025 Alberta Golf Volunteer of the Year. Paterson, a respected referee, has demonstrated exceptional commitment to the sport. Prior to joining Alberta Golf, he served with Golf BC and brought extensive knowledge in course rating. In 2025, he officiated at three Alberta Golf events, including the Men’s Amateur, and was invited by Golf Canada to assist at the USGA Adaptive Open at Pinehurst.
After dinner, the evening’s main event began — the official inductions of Jackie Little and Cathy McMillan into the Alberta Golf Hall of Fame.
Jackie Little was introduced by her husband, Patrick, and took a moment to remember her friend and fellow Hall of Fame member Betty Stanhope-Cole, noting that she was “surely looking down.” Cathy McMillan was introduced by one of her twin daughters and expressed heartfelt gratitude to join so many of her longtime friends in the Hall.
More About Jackie Little
A proud product of Glendale Golf & Country Club, Jackie Little found success early and often in Alberta. She captured both the Alberta Junior and Juvenile Girls Championships in 1974 and 1976, and went on to win the Alberta Women’s Amateur in 1978 and 1981. Little also represented Alberta on four Junior Girls Interprovincial Teams and three Women’s Interprovincial Teams before relocating to British Columbia, where her winning ways continued.
In B.C., Little claimed five BC Amateur, five Senior Amateur, and two Mid-Master titles, while continuing to return to Alberta in the summers to win three Alberta Women’s Senior Championships. Her success also extended to the international stage, where she captured the PNGA Women’s Senior Championship twice, along with four national titles — including Mid-Amateur, Mid-Master, and Senior crowns. She has represented Canada on both World Amateurand Commonwealth Teams.
Still active on the senior circuit, Little added another title to her name by winning the 2024 Alberta Women’s Super Senior Championship, continuing to build on her remarkable career.
More About Cathy McMillan
For more than 50 years, Cathy McMillan has been a fixture in Alberta’s competitive golf scene. She burst onto the scene with a win at the 1963 Canadian Junior Girls Championship, followed by two Alberta Junior Girls titles. Between 1965 and 1991, she represented Alberta on 15 Interprovincial Teams, including the 1973 squad that won the Women’s Interprovincial Team Championship.
McMillan was a seven-time runner-up at the Alberta Women’s Amateur before transitioning to senior competition, where she again excelled. From 1996 to 2006, she earned a spot on every Alberta Women’s Senior Interprovincial Team, contributing to four team victories (1997, 1998, 1999, and 2001). In 2006, she capped her competitive career with a win at the Alberta Women’s Senior Championship.
Her competitive highlights also include international play, finishing third at the 2004 Irish Senior Women’s Championship, and appearances at both the British Senior Women’s and USGA Senior Women’s Championships.
Beyond her playing career, McMillan has been instrumental in growing the game. She served as Director of Player Development at Alberta Golf (2004–2009) and continues to volunteer at her home club, Ponoka Golf Club, supporting local events and nurturing the next generation of golfers.
About The Hall of Fame Player Award
The Player Award recognizes individuals who have brought distinction to Alberta through excellence in competitive golf at the international, national, provincial, and regional levels.
Previous inductees include Bob Wylie, Doug Silverberg, Keith Alexander, Betty Stanhope-Cole, Marilyn O’Connor, Rea Milligan-Simpson, Kareen Qually-Nelson, David Schultz, and Frank Van Dornick.
Nominations are now open for future Alberta Golf Hall of Fame classes.
To learn more or submit a nomination, please use the link below.
For Danny Sahl, The Pro Golf Dream Never Dies
Edmonton’s Danny Sahl is making a living in professional golf — just not the way he originally planned. He is presently earning his money not by swinging clubs but by carrying them. Now don’t take that the wrong way. He can still play well, and he has high aspirations regarding that, but for now he’s content working as a professional caddie rather than as a professional golfer.
Sahl did become a playing professional in 2001 after a sterling junior career in Alberta, which included the 1995 Juvenile Boys Championship and 5 appearances as part of Team Alberta. But on the PGA Tour Canada, he found the winner’s circle only once, in 2011, at the Syncrude Boreal Open in Fort McMurray. Overall on that tour, Sahl had one runner-up finish and accumulated seven top-10 finishes as he fought to climb to the top.
While he didn’t make it to that level as a player, Sahl, who’s easily identified on the course by his mid-calf black socks and black-frame eyeglasses, made it to the top by carrying clubs. As such he’s done exceptionally well as Corey Conners’ caddie. Prior to that, the Albertan also lugged the sticks for PGA players Ben Curtis, Mike Weir and Vijay Singh
Speaking after Round 2 at the Sentry Tournament of Champions at the outstanding 7,700 yard Plantation Course on Maui, the first words out of Sahl’s mouth were, “Yeah, it’s a tough walk but a beautiful one!”
In fact, his pay cheques are also likely considered beautiful as Conners has earned approximately $13M (US) since he and Sahl joined forces in 2021, a sum which the caddie takes a percentage of.
“Corey’s my guy. I’ve learned a lot of golf from Mike Weir and Vijay Singh and now Corey. I think my knowledge with my experience has helped Corey out, I think a lot, with what I know. We have similar games, so it was easy for me to work with him. We both went to Kent State (University where they played for the Flashes). We had the same college coach, so it’s a nice connection that way.”
Speaking to the reason for him changing from being a playing pro to a carrying pro, Sahl commented, “I just ran out of resources to keep going. I still had it in me when I started out with Mike Weir. I got into a couple of events,” but the income from his finishes back then weren’t enough to keep the dream alive at that time. “I had the opportunity to caddie, and you know what? I wasn’t doing great as a pro, especially with what these guys do. Right now, I’ve been on the bag for 20 years and I still work on my game as hard as ever.”
He continued, “For me, this is the next best thing. You’re still around the guys at the highest level. I always wanted to be out here on the PGA TOUR. Unfortunately, I’m on the other side, but hey, I’m in the thick of things.”
While Sahl, now 45, has made a good living working for Conners and others, he wants to get back into the swing of things himself. Thus, he’s set his goal to make the grade on the Champions Tour when he turns 50. He noted that caddying has helped him improve his game by observing others who play at the top level.
“I just love the game. I study it. I watch everybody. I’ve got a good eye for the game. The swing, what the trends are. You’re practicing at the highest level. I’m not hitting the shot but I’m still seeing it,” and for him, the dream of moving from carrying to swinging remains high on his to-do list.
Top Golf Course Patios In Alberta
After playing one of the most underrated golf courses in the province (hint: it was just outside Stettler and it was called Pheasantback), my four-man posse plunked itself down on the beautiful outdoor patio, ordered a pint, and watched the western sky explode in red-orange fire. We tallied scores, we laughed, we ate, we quenched our thirst. It was a perfect day of golf. Capped off, of course, with an amazing patio experience.
Not surprisingly, given the spectacular natural beauty of our province, the quality of the golf courses we have here, and the fact that the vast majority of golfers cherish post-round nourishment, there is no shortage of pristine patios at Alberta golf courses.
As long as the wind is down and the temperature is decent, you can bet that the outdoor patio at your friendly neighbourhood golf course will be bustling. After all, the season is relatively short in these parts. And those idyllic summer days are at a premium. You gotta take advantage when the going is good! Definitely don’t have to twist my arm.
While the patio at Pheasantback – especially when those prairie sunsets offer a breathtaking show! – is certainly a gem, there are numerous others sprinkled throughout Wild Rose Country. From Lethbridge to Fort Mac, Medicine Hat to Banff, great patios are par for the course. Here are a few more that rate high on my list. (Disclaimer: I readily admit that there are many more that should be included here. Hopefully I’ll get to those…soon!)
Crowsnest Pass Golf Club – The spectacular mountain golf experience at the refurbished Crowsnest Pass Golf Club is no longer a secret! And the awesome new clubhouse, perfectly situated on the ridge overlooking the course and the snow-dipped mountains, is the appropriate way to cap off the day.
Kananaskis Country Golf Course – Regardless of which course you play at the storied Kananaskis Country GC (my favourite is Kidd), a “session” on the patio is required. Perched above the course on the bench, the towering ramparts of Mt. Lorette and Mt. Kidd looming overhead, this is, unquestionably, one of the most scenic patios in the entire golf world.
Priddis Greens GC – Just fifteen minutes west of Calgary, the private Priddis Greens GC, which is right on the doorstep of Kananaskis Country, is bordered by unspoiled forests and stunning natural scenes. And the view from the wraparound patio is the ideal place to soak them all in.
Fort McMurray Golf Club – It’s a fact: neither fire nor flood can keep the fabulous Fort McMurray Golf Club down for long! The stunning new timber-framed clubhouse at this resilient club is anchored by The Bear & Buffalo, which has to be in the running for one of the best golf course restaurants in the country. And, yes, the massive patio is pure perfection.
Desert Blume Golf Club – The sneaky-good Desert Blume GC in the sun-soaked city of Medicine Hat is always a treat to play. And the spacious clubhouse, which features the largest patio in town, serves up tasty food (thanks to the talents of Executive Chef, Brent Donkin) and delicious views of the golf course, the coulee, and Seven Person’s Creek.
Blackhawk Golf Club – Routed along the pine-covered banks of the North Saskatchewan River, the exceptional course at Blackhawk, a masterpiece by Alberta architect Rod Whitman, is rightfully regarded as one of the top private clubs in the country. And the amazing clubhouse patio overlooking the pristine valley? Yes, that’s absolutely upper-tier as well.
Obviously, with over 300 golf courses in Alberta, I’ve just scratched the surface here. And I’d conclude with this: with good friends, good food, good drinks, and good weather, any patio in our province is perfect!
2 Champions crowned at 2025 All Abilities Championship
Alberta Golf (Calgary) – The 2025 Alberta All Abilities Championship wrapped up it’s championship season at McCall Lake Golf Course in Calgary, as a record number 29 participants played in the 2025 Alberta All Abilities Championship. The two day championship had perfect weather as players competed for the Gross and Net division championships.
The Gross division title was won by Kiefer Jones of Blind Golf Alberta. The day saw a battle between Jones and Grant Lee come down to the back 9. Kiefer came into the final day with a one shot lead after a 67 on the first day. After losing his lead on the front, Kiefer reclaimed it with birdies on 14 and 15, and successfully defended Lee the rest of the way. Kiefer won the event previously when it was held at McCall in 2023.
The Net division title was won by Emma Bittorf, who also won the Net title in 2023. After a slow first day, Emma shot a personal best, 73, which resulted in 48 Net Stableford points to jump up the leaderboard and claim the victory. Rachel Adamis, who plays many of the McLennan Ross Alberta Junior Tour events also shot a personal best to come in second in the net division. Randall Mackus in his first visit to the Alberta All Abilities finished third in the Net division.
All Abilities Full Leaderboard
With this, the 2025 Championship season has come to a close! With any luck, the fall golf season will be a long one once again for players across the province. The winter will provide players a break and a reset before turning their attention and preparation to 2026!
2025 Alberta All Abilities Championship Preview
The final event in the 2025 Alberta Golf Championship season kicks off tomorrow at McCall Lake Golf Course in Calgary, as the third instalment of the All Abilities Championship gets underway!
The Alberta All Abilities Championship is in its third year of operation and this year has become the finale to the championship season. The event is open to any golfer that has a player pass through the European Disabled Golf Association and is an official WR4GD ranking event. The event provides players with disabilities a place to compete and come together to celebrate. The decision to add this event in 2023 followed the move made by many major associations including Golf Canada, the USGA, Golf Ontario, and Golf Manitoba. Alberta is the 4th province to offer this kind of event for its players. There is both a gross competition and a net competition for the players, and as it continues to grow there is the potential of having separate competitions for each category of disability.
In 2024, Bob MacDermott was victorious winning the event up in Sherwood Park. He’s surely a player to watch this year as he tries to defend the title. Returning to the field this year is 2023 Champion, Kiefer Jones, who is 34th in the WR4GD rankings. Kiefer, a Calgarian, at one point was also the #1 ranked blind golfer in the world. He’ll look to repeat his success this year as the event returns to McCall Lake. Another player to watch this week would be Josh Engel, who recently won Gold a the Special Olympics Summer Games earlier this year.
World #1 – Kiefer Jones Interview
McCall Lake has proven to be a terrific host for this event in the past and the City of Calgary has become a leader in accessibility in the game of golf. McCall Lake has been the home of a number of free junior adaptive golf lessons for golfers with disabilities. In addition to this, McCall Lake partnered with the Alberta Sports and Recreation Association for the Blind in 2023 to offer additional junior adaptive golf camps to their members. Shaganappi Point also has their own assisted mobility device for golfers who are looking to get into the game.
New this year for the All Abilities, Alberta Golf is pleased to be hosting an adaptive golf clinic at the McCall Lake driving range on September 9th, led by PGA of Alberta professionals.
For the full preview of the 2025 Alberta All Abilities Championship, click the link below to head to the Alberta Golf Yearbook.
For tee times and results from the event, click the link below for the Golf Genius page.