Key Takeaways
- The National Facility Awards for Junior Golf, launched in 2022, recognize Canadian golf clubs that excel in junior development through access, programming, competition, and community partnership.
- 2025 winners span the country, from South Ajax Golf Club in Ontario to Glendale Golf & Country Club in Manitoba, showcasing regional diversity and best practices.
- Award categories highlight specific strengths: Youth on Course access, tournament hosting, First Tee program enrollment, grassroots participation, junior opportunity pathways, and competitive performance.
- Winners demonstrated measurable growth—such as a 900 % increase in First Tee participation at Antigonish Golf Club or over 1,500 free junior rounds at Bowen Island Golf Club.
- Many finalists also showed notable achievements, reinforcing a national trend toward expanding junior golf opportunities and fostering inclusive, safe environments for young players.
Overview of the National Facility Awards for Junior Golf
The National Facility Awards for Junior Golf were established in 2022 to celebrate golf clubs and facilities across Canada that go above and beyond in nurturing young golfers. The awards focus on four pillars: access, programming, development, and competition, seeking venues that create welcoming, accessible, and safe experiences for juniors. Ryan Logan, Director of External Relations at Golf Canada, praised the 2025 edition for highlighting coast‑to‑coast excellence, noting that the winners have elevated programming quality, expanded access, and deepened community partnerships. The ceremony not only honors individual clubs but also showcases collective progress toward strengthening the future of Canadian junior golf.
Youth on Course Program Location of the Year
South Ajax Golf Club in Ajax, Ontario, claimed the Youth on Course award for its outstanding commitment to providing subsidized course access. The club recorded 494 unique junior participants who logged 2,712 rounds in 2025—nearly double the 1,433 rounds from the previous season. Youth on Course is seamlessly integrated with South Ajax’s existing junior programs, allowing participants to play at any time while their rounds are tracked via the Youth on Course portal. This operational rigor, combined with ongoing engagement with juniors, underscores the club’s dedication to fostering a thriving junior golf environment. Finalists for this category were The Nest at Cabot Cape Breton (Nova Scotia) and Meridian Hills Golf Club (British Columbia).
Tournament Host of the Year
Gowan Brae Golf & Country Club in Bathurst, New Brunswick, earned the Tournament Host award after successfully hosting the 2025 Canadian Junior Boys Championship presented by BDO. Under the leadership of Adam Chamberlain and Host Club Committee chair Shawn Patterson, the club coordinated over 150 volunteers to deliver warm East Coast hospitality despite an unusually dry and hot summer. The greens staff maintained impeccable course conditions, contributing to a professional‑level event from start to finish. The championship’s smooth execution highlighted Gowan Brae’s capability to stage national competitions while involving the local community through volunteerism and fundraising. Finalists were Pitt Meadows Golf Club (British Columbia) and Club de Golf Sainte‑Marie (Quebec).
First Tee Program Location of the Year
Antigonish Golf Club in Nova Scotia won the First Tee award after dramatically increasing program participation in its second year. Enrollment jumped from 12 juniors in the inaugural season to 120 in 2025—a 900 % increase—thanks to targeted community outreach and innovative fundraising initiatives. The club delivered six six‑hour First Tee sessions at full capacity, plus an additional all‑girls session in the fall, emphasizing accessibility and a safe, inclusive atmosphere. This growth has produced life‑enhancing golf experiences for youth from diverse backgrounds throughout Atlantic Canada. The finalists in this category were Broadmoor Public Golf Course (Alberta) and Cultus Lake Golf Club (British Columbia).
Grassroots Junior Program of the Year
Bowen Island Golf Club in British Columbia retained its status as a top grassroots developer by offering free golf and club rentals to juniors, resulting in over 1,500 junior rounds played at no cost in 2025. Beyond free access, the club forged partnerships with local schools and youth programs, hosted community events throughout the summer, and continuously worked to eliminate barriers for young golfers. This holistic approach has made Bowen Island a beacon of accessibility on the West Coast. Finalists for the grassroots award were The Oaks of St. George Golf Club (Ontario) and Paragon Golf & Country Club (Nova Scotia).
Junior Golf Opportunity Award
Glendale Golf & Country Club in Winnipeg, Manitoba, captured the Junior Golf Opportunity award for its comprehensive, stage‑by‑stage junior pathway. Programming begins at age three with introductory clinics and progresses through summer camps, family events, season‑long challenges, and competitive opportunities. The club’s strong non‑family‑sponsored programs and fundraising initiatives help athletes pursue provincial, national, and international competition. By supporting juniors at every developmental stage, Glendale ensures young golfers not only hone technical skills but also cultivate a lasting passion for the game. Finalists were Club de golf Lotbinière (Quebec) and The Marshes Golf Club (Ontario).
Competitive Junior Program of the Year
Club de golf de la Vallée du Richelieu in Sainte‑Julie, Quebec, won the Competitive Junior Program award thanks to a foundation‑supported, high‑performance development model. The club combines targeted on‑course practice with off‑course expertise in physical training, nutrition, and sport psychology, creating a comprehensive training environment. This investment yielded impressive results, with numerous juniors competing provincially and nine athletes representing the club at the 2025 Canadian Junior Boys and Girls Championships. The finalists in this category were Summit Golf Club (Ontario) and Hazelmere Golf & Tennis Club (British Columbia).
Closing Remarks and Contact Information
Golf Canada extends its congratulations and sincere thanks to all winners and finalists for their dedication to advancing junior golf across the nation. Their efforts continue to shape the sport’s future, ensuring that young golfers nationwide have access to the resources, opportunities, and supportive environments needed to thrive. For further details about the National Facility Awards for Junior Golf presented by Humi, visit golfcanada.ca/national-facility-awards-for-junior-golf/. Inquiries regarding the awards or nomination process can be directed to [email protected].