Fall Golf: The Appeal, Frost Delays, and The Leaf Rule
With Alberta’s weather beginning to take a turn — although next week is looking a little more like the El Niño we were promised — it’s safe to say that fall has arrived.
For golfers, those words can be bittersweet. The days are getting shorter and the temperatures are dropping, but there is still plenty of golf to be played. While fall golf may require a few more layers than your midsummer round, it also brings cooler temperatures, beautiful colours and a unique atmosphere that makes this time of year one of the most enjoyable seasons to play.
So, before you head out for your next fall round, here’s everything you need to know — including the ever-popular “Leaf Rule.”
The Appeal
While many golfers prefer the heart of summer — long days, warm temperatures and nothing more than shorts and a shirt — there’s something special about golf in the fall.
It’s hard to put into words the feeling of a crisp 15-degree evening, arriving at the course after work in a sweater and pants, knowing the season is slowly slipping away. The air is cooler, the course is quieter, and suddenly, you’re not just playing golf — you’re chasing the sunset.
As the round unfolds, the sun dips lower and the shadows stretch longer across the fairways. Towering trees, once covered in summer green, are now painted in brilliant shades of yellow, orange and red, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for every approach shot. There’s a certain magic to walking down the fairway with the autumn air around you and the last light of the day ahead.
And for sports fans, fall golf might be the perfect weekend combination. Play 18 in the morning, enjoy the 19th hole in the clubhouse, then head home to the couch for an afternoon of NFL or college football.
Summer may be golf’s busiest season, but fall might just be its most beautiful.
The Preparations
Now with the curb appeal set, there are some different things that are good to know when you’re dealing with the fall.
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Weather
First, it’s important to remember that 15°C in September doesn’t necessarily feel the same as 15°C in July.
The air feels cooler in the fall, making extra layers an important part of your golf bag. The sun also sets earlier, and temperatures can drop quickly once it disappears below the horizon. Those late-afternoon rounds can quickly become a race against both darkness and the cold, so plan accordingly.
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Frost Delays
Frost delays are an unfortunate part of fall golf. Frost occurs when ice crystals form within the grass, and walking or driving across frost-covered turf can rupture plant cells and cause significant damage. In some cases, the resulting damage can take weeks to recover.
Not all areas of a golf course will frost equally. North-facing slopes, low-lying areas and locations sheltered from the wind are often among the last places to thaw.
If you have an early-morning tee time, call the course ahead of time, listen to course staff and, most importantly, stay off the grass until you’re given the go-ahead.
For more information on frost delays, click here.
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Course Conditions
After a long golf season, courses may begin making preparations for winter, while others may still be recovering from challenging weather conditions throughout the year. As a result, you may encounter a few changes during your fall rounds.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Temporary greens: Some courses may have temporary greens in play. Be sure to follow posted signage and course instructions and avoid playing on greens that are out of play.
- Wasps: Alberta’s wasps can become particularly active in the fall. Keep an eye out while walking the course, especially around areas where they may be nesting.
- Fairway mats: Some courses may introduce fairway mats as turf growth slows. If mats are in use, be sure to follow the course’s instructions regarding when and where they should be used.
- Leaves and debris: The changing colours are one of the best parts of fall golf, but they also mean more leaves and debris on the course. Course maintenance teams are working hard to keep playing surfaces clear, so be patient and understanding as they manage the changing conditions.
- Traffic control: Courses may introduce traffic restrictions or direct golfers away from certain areas to protect turf and give it the best opportunity to recover before winter. Always follow course signage and staff instructions.
Helpful Rules
Now for everyone’s favourite section: the Rules of Golf!
We spoke with two of Alberta’s top referees to put together a list of rules that can come in handy during the fall months.
Important: The following are all Model Local Rules. They are only in effect when adopted by the golf course or tournament committee, so always check the local rules before playing.
- Preferred Lies (E-3): Often referred to as “Lift, Clean and Place,” this Model Local Rule may be used when conditions are wet or otherwise warrant relief. When in effect, players may mark their ball, lift and clean it, and replace it within a specified distance of its original position.
- Cleaning Ball (E-2): Also known as “Lift, Clean and Replace,” this rule is designed to address mud or other debris accumulating on the ball. When in effect, players may lift and clean their ball, but must replace it on the exact spot from which it was lifted.
- Leaf Rule (F-14): Perhaps the most talked-about fall golf rule, the Leaf Rule is designed to address situations where leaves and other loose impediments make it difficult or impossible to find a ball. When this Model Local Rule is in effect, free relief under Rule 16.1 may be available for piles of loose impediments in the general area or in bunkers.
114th Men’s Amateur Host Club Spotlight: Fort McMurray Golf Club
In 2026, the Alberta Men’s Amateur Championship will make its return to northern Alberta, hosted by a venue with a proven history of championship golf. The beautiful Fort McMurray Golf Club, which most recently hosted the 2021 Canadian Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship and previously the 2007 Alberta Men’s Amateur Championship, will welcome the province’s top amateur golfers from July 7–9 for the 114th playing of Alberta’s premier amateur championship.
The Course
Fort McMurray Golf Club features an impressive 27-hole facility that provides both members and public golfers with a unique playing experience. Situated within the boreal forest and the Athabasca River Valley, the course offers a setting unlike any other on the provincial championship schedule.
For many competitors, this will be their first opportunity to compete in such surroundings, creating a true test of concentration and adaptability. While the scenery is spectacular, the tree-lined corridors of the boreal forest demand precision and strategic decision-making. Accuracy, particularly off the tee, will be at a premium as players carefully balance distance with dispersion when selecting clubs throughout the championship.
The Event
The Alberta Men’s Amateur Championship is the province’s oldest amateur golf tournament and one of the longest-running championships in Canada. Its origins date back to 1907, predating the formation of the Alberta Golf Association itself.
Players earn their place in the championship field through one of three regional qualifying events unless exempt through previous achievements. This process ensures that the field represents the strongest amateur golfers from across Alberta.
The champion will also earn the distinction of becoming the first member of the 2027 Alberta Morse Cup Team, securing a place in the prestigious Pacific Coast Amateur Championship. In addition, several quota positions into the Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship will be awarded to top finishers. This year’s national championship will be contested in Alberta at Mickelson National Golf Club and Heritage Pointe Golf Club.
Inside the Field
With qualifying now complete, the championship field has begun to take shape. With the two-time defending champion absent, a new Alberta Men’s Amateur Champion will be crowned in Fort McMurray.
Identifying a favourite, however, is no easy task. The field includes an impressive collection of past champions, provincial team members, and rising stars, including:
- Neil Thomas — Back-to-Back Alberta Men’s Mid-Amateur Champion
- David Schultz — Alberta Golf Hall of Fame Member
- Braden O’Grady — 2022 Alberta Men’s Amateur Champion
- Chase Strang — Defending U17 Boys Champion
- Shiro Mani — 2022 and 2023 Alberta Men’s Mid-Master Champion
- Russell Quinn and Jalen Apedoe — 2025 Alberta U19 Boys Team Members
- Ryan Gillis — 2026 Alberta Morse Cup Team Member
Beyond those names, the championship field features a deep roster of accomplished competitors, including Paxton Maxwell, Chase Lassman, Brae Rogalczyk, Kye Fisher, and Josiah Tong.
With so much talent making the journey to “The Fort,” the 114th Alberta Men’s Amateur Championship promises to deliver exciting competition, momentum swings, and memorable moments. Over three days, players will be challenged not only by one of Alberta’s most distinctive championship venues but also by the strength of the field around them. The competitor who can remain focused and execute under pressure will earn the title of Alberta Men’s Amateur Champion.
Find Your Fit: Exploring the top golf simulator technologies
Indoor golf is booming, and today’s simulator technologies make it easier than ever to train intentionally – whether you’re grinding through winter or using data-driven insights to improve your weekly practice. But with so many platforms and launch monitors on the market, how do you choose the right one for you?
Here’s a quick, friendly overview of some of the most common simulator platforms available at Golf Canada member facilities. While there are other technologies out there, these are the platforms most golfers will encounter. Each facility listed on the Golf Canada website and in the Golf Canada App specifies the platform they use, making it easier to find the experience that suits your game.
TrackMan (radar launch monitor)
A tour favourite. TrackMan’s dual-radar and camera system provides top-level accuracy and an immersive software environment. If you want the same data trusted by the world’s best players, this is the one.
Foresight (camera launch monitor)
A powerhouse indoors. Foresight systems are known for precise, reliable club- and ball-data capture. For players who appreciate detailed numbers and consistent indoor performance, this is a top choice.
SkyTrak+ (camera + Doppler)
A blend of accuracy and versatility. SkyTrak+ integrates smoothly with platforms like E6, TGC 2019, and FSX, providing great value and adaptability for all types of golfers.
HD Golf (simulation software + camera sensors)
Think ‘golf theatre’. HD Golf combines high-fidelity visuals with integrated swing analysis tools, delivering a fully immersive experience that feels as close to the real course as you can get indoors.
Uneekor EYE XO / QED (overhead camera systems)
Designed for fixed indoor bays, Uneekor’s overhead units deliver rapid club and ball tracking. The setup maintains a clean hitting area, making it perfect for dedicated training spaces.
Golfzon (proprietary system)
Golfzon offers a premium all-in-one experience, featuring a moving swing plate, auto-tee system, and refined software. If you want a complete simulation package without compromise, this is the one.
SkyCaddie SkyTrak (launch monitor)
Compact and broadly compatible, SkyTrak is a popular choice for golfers who like to combine different software platforms and seek simple, reliable data.
FlightScope Mevo+ (radar launch monitor)
Portable and powerful. Mevo+ works indoors and outdoors, offers strong shot-tracking capabilities, and includes access to different simulation modes; a great choice for golfers on the go.
Swing Caddie (radar launch monitor)
A versatile solution combining Doppler radar with visual swing analysis. It’s an easy choice for players seeking useful metrics without a complicated setup.
Garmin Approach R10 (radar launch monitor)
Ultra-portable and budget-friendly. The R10 pairs easily with E6 and other software, making it ideal for casual sessions, small spaces, or practice that travels with you.
ProSim (simulation software)
Praised for precise 3D ball tracking and a more “free” hitting environment, ProSim emphasizes reliable shot analysis with fewer setup constraints.
Full Swing (radar + high-speed camera)
Trusted by some of the game’s biggest names, Full Swing combines radar tracking with high-speed imaging to provide accurate ball and club data. Instant feedback and seamless indoor/outdoor performance make it a preferred choice for players seeking precision and versatility in one premium package.
Which one is right for you?
Ask yourself what matters most: tour-level precision, immersive visuals, portability, or flexible software. There’s no single “best” platform – just the one that meets your goals, space, and budget.
Every Golf Canada member simulator facility lists its platform technology in its profile on the Golf Canada App and on the Find a Facility page at golfcanada.ca/justswing, making your search easier than ever. Happy practicing, and see you on the (virtual) course.
2024 Volunteer Wind-Up & Volunteer Of The Year Award
Jack and Chris Wilson, 2024 Alberta Golf Volunteers of the Year
Every year Alberta Golf runs two core services throughout the summer months: course rating and amateur golf championships. These two items have been some of Alberta Golf’s core offerings since its inception in 1912. The smooth operation and running of these two offerings come from the dedication and commitment of our 60 volunteers, as either course raters or referees.
After the dust has settled from another busy golf season, Alberta Golf runs its Volunteer Wind-Up, which is a thank you event for all our volunteers, who spend their summers in the field either lending their expertise of the rules of golf to our championship team, or leading a team of volunteers as they rate the courses in Alberta to ensure accurate handicap indexes for all players. As part of the Volunteer Wind-Up, the Volunteer Of The Year is named for Alberta Golf and their name is sent to Golf Canada to be considered for the national Volunteer Award.
On Monday September 23, the 2024 iteration of the Wind-Up took place out at the famous Banff Springs Golf Club. Volunteers from all over the province made their way out to the course for a day of fun, and the chance to meet the other volunteers at Alberta Golf. A buffet lunch was served, and a set of short presentations followed recapping the year from both the competitions and the handicap/course rating teams. After the presentations the 2024 Volunteer of The Year was named as Jack and Chris Wilson, a husband and wife that help lead the southern Course rating team out of the Lethbridge Country Club.
Jack and Chris have been volunteering with Alberta Golf as course raters since 2011 and have graduated from the newbies to the southern team leads and have rated every course in the province south of Strathmore! They even got the once-in-a-lifetime experience to travel to the Northwest Territories, which falls under the Alberta Golf umbrella, to rate four courses up north. After a short speech and award ceremony, it was time for golf!
As part of the appreciation event, all volunteers are given the opportunity to play golf at the hosting course!
Click here for photos from the event
Chris and Jack’s Story
Jack got into the course rating game after working at Paradise Canyon as a marshal where he found the enjoyment of being in the field. He got his wife involved and the two learned and worked their way up, quickly realizing that their superpower as a team was Jack’s love for being in the field, and Chris’s passion for learning the rules and procedures of course rating.
Over 13 years, the pair have had plenty of highlights from their time as volunteers including introducing their friends to course rating! The two did have varying accounts on their favourite memory from their time, with Jack enjoying rating Crowsnest Pass Golf Club after their renovations were finished. Chris loved their experience and time rating the Northwest Territories courses this summer, to which Jack added that was high on his list of experiences with Alberta Golf.
Looking to become a Volunteer?
Alberta Golf is always on the lookout for more volunteers to add to our team of referees and course raters. If you’re looking for a new and exciting challenge in the world of golf, this might be the right opportunity for you!
For more information on our volunteer process, click here
For additional questions, please email stephen@albertagolf.org.
3 Champions Crowned at Alberta Interclub Championship at Kananaskis Country Golf Course
Alberta Golf (Kananaskis) – Alberta Golf wrapped up it’s Championship season Tuesday at Kananaskis Country Golf Course as 48 Men’s and Women’s teams represented their home club in the 2024 Alberta Interclub Championship. The day was warm and sunny and the scenery was an unbelievable backdrop to some stellar play across the 36 hole layout of Mount Lorette and Mount Kidd.
On the women’s side Country Hills Golf Club took the championship. Meaghan Leblanc, Victoria Tse, Joan Wilson and Patty Condon teamed up to post 8-under par and an impressive 13 stroke victory over Mickelson National Golf Club.
Patty Condon, Victoria Tse, Meaghan Leblanc, and Joan Wilson
The men’s division was very competitive. Silver Springs Golf and Country Club fired 13-under par. Colin Ongyerth, Tanner Hicks, Andrew Reed and Nick Chomack teamed up for a 1-stroke victory over Sirocco Golf Club.
Colin Ongyerth, Andrew Reed, Nick Chomack and Tanner Hicks
Cara Smith, Daniela Pacheco, Rachel Paul and Mataya Hampson from Mickelson National Golf Club won the Ladies Low Net Championship at 15-under par.
Mataya Hampson, Cara Smith, Daniela Pacheco and Rachel Paul
David Schultz defends Alberta Men’s Super Senior Championship
Alberta Golf (Acheson) – It’s been quite the summer for David Schultz from Country Hills Golf Club. 4 weeks ago Schultz won the Alberta Men’s Senior Championship and this week at The Ranch Golf and Country Club he defended his title at the Alberta Men’s Super Senior Championship. After an opening round 6-over 77 in rainy conditions, Schultz posted a 2-under par 69 for a 2 stroke victory but it wasn’t easy. Norman Bradley from Kelowna Golf and Country Club had a 4-stroke lead over Schultz with 7 holes to play, over that stretch Schultz made clutch birdies at 13 and 15 while Bradley had a bogey at 14 and a triple-bogey at 15, that 6-shot swing turned the 4-shot deficit into a 2-stroke victory for Schultz.
David Schultz: 2024 Alberta Men’s Super Senior Champion
David Schultz: 2024 Alberta Men’s Senior Champion and Alberta Men’s Super Senior Champion
WATCH INTERVIEW WITH DAVID SCHULTZ
Gerald Stoddart from Priddis Greens Golf and Country Club shot the second best round of the week, a 1-under 70 in the final round to finish in 3rd place.
Howard Broun won the 75 and over Diamond age division by beating his age, shooting a 4-over par 75.
Howard Broun: Diamon Champion for age 75 and over
FULL SCORING IN ALL DIVISIONS HERE
1st tee at The Ranch Golf and Country Club
Norman Bradley leads Alberta Men’s Super Senior Championship
Alberta Golf (Acheson) – Competitors battled through rainy conditions in round one of the Alberta Men’s Super Senior Championship on Wednesday at The Ranch Golf and Country Club just west of Edmonton. 2023 runner-up Norman Bradley from the Kelowna Golf and Country Club fired a 2-over par 73 with 3 birdies, 3 bogeys and a lone double bogey on the par 5 10th hole for the lead heading to the final round.
Bradley has a one shot lead on Keith Newton from The Olds Golf Club. Newton posted 3-over par 74 with 3 birdies, 4 bogeys and a double bogey on the 16th hole.
5 golfers are within 4 shots of the lead including 2023 Alberta Men’s Super Senior Champion David Schultz who recently won the 2024 Alberta Men’s Senior Championship in a playoff over Senan Foley at Highwood Golf.
6 Champions crowned at Alberta U17, U15 and U13 Championship
Alberta Golf (Red Deer) – Sunny calm day at Alberta Springs Golf Resort in Red Deer for the final round of the Alberta U17, U15 & U13 Championship as 6 champions were crowned.
In the U13 Boys’ division, Oscar Gosgnach from Royal Mayfair Golf Club shot rounds of 71 and 73 to shoot even par for the championship and a 5 stroke win.
Oscar Gosgnach, U13 Boys’ Champion
The U15 Boys’ Champion is Bennett Love from the Red Deer Golf and Country Club. Love had an eagle and 4 birdies on the front nine to turn in 30 and came from behind to take the title with an impressive 7-under 65.
Bennett Love, U15 Boys’ Champion
In the U17 Boys’ competition, Patrick McLarty from Highwood Golf broke away from the pack on the back nine and posted a 6-under 66 for the title.
Patrick McLarty, U17 Boys’ Champion
In the U13 Girls’ division, Camilla Ruesga-Rojas fired rounds of 84 and 79 to win by one stroke over Danika Horcica.
Camilla Ruesga-Rojas, U13 Girls’ Champion
Sela Ogada used a 5-under par 67 in the opening round to cruise to an 11-stroke victory in the U15 Girl’s division to take the title.
Sela Ogada, U15 Girls’ Champion
In the U17 Girls’ division, Saylar May from Pine Hills Golf Club in Rocky Mountain House made a clutch par save on the 18th hole for a 1-stroke victory over Kali Yeske.
Saylar May, U17 Girls’ Champion
WATCH VIDEO INTERVIEWS WITH THE CHAMPIONS
Alberta Golf U17, U15, U13 leaderboard heading to final round
Alberta Golf (Red Deer) – On Tuesday Alberta Golf will crown 6 champions at the U17, U15, U13 Championship. Here’s how things stand heading to the final round.
In the boy’s divisions, the U17 leader is Brae Rogalczyk from Olds Golf Club who had 8 birdies on his way to a 6-under par round of 66 and a 2-shot lead.
In the Boy’s U15 division, Jayden Arnold from Earl Grey Golf Club posted 5 birdies to a lone bogey for 4-under 68 and a 1 shot lead.
In the boy’s U13 division, Oscar Gosgnach from Royal Mayfair Golf Club built as 4-shot lead firing a 1 under 71 with 3 birdies and 2 bogeys.
In the girl’s divisions, Saylar May from Pine Hills Golf Club has a 4-shot lead after shooting 4 birdies and a lone bogey for 3-under 69.
In the girl’s U15 division, Sela Ogada from Sirocco Golf Club has built a 6-shot lead after an impressive 5-under 67 that included 8 birdies.
In the girl’s U13 division, Danika Horcica from the Edmonton Country Club has a 2 shot lead heading to the final round.
FULL SCORING IN ALL DIVISIONS HERE
Wes Heffernan wins 7th Alberta Open Title
Alberta Golf (Medicine Hat) – Wes Heffernan from Silver Springs Golf & Country Club started the final round of the Alberta Open Championship 2 shots behind leader Mitchell Fox from Speargrass Golf Course. Last week Fox got the best of Heffernan at the PGA of Alberta Assistants Championship but today Heffernan shot his 3rd straight 5-under 67 for a 2 shot win over Dillon Batsel. Batsel shot 6-under 66 on his home track Desert Blume Golf Club for a runner-up finish in front of friends and family. 2019 champion Andrew Harrison made a hard charge and was 8-under for the day on the 14th tee but struggled coming in and posted 4-under 68 and a 3rd place finish. Heffernan earned $8,250 for his win, Batsel $5,000 for sunner-up and Harrison $4,000 for 3rd place.
Wes Heffernan: 2024 Alberta Champion
Michael Valk from the Desert Blume Golf Club played in the second to last group with Batsel and Jesse Galvon. Valk and Galvon are both amateurs and were battling for low amateur and a spot in next year’s Pacific Coast Invitational. Valk and Galvon traded leads all day long before a birdie on the 18th hole secured low amateur honours for Valk.
Michael Valk: Low Amateur
Wes Heffernan and Michael Valk
WATCH INTERVIEWS WITH HEFFERNAN AND VALK
A huge thank you to Bill Bishop, Trevor Ellerman and the entire Desert Blume staff and volunteers for a great week in Medicine Hat.
Trevor Ellerman: Desert Blume Golf Club GM/Owner
