The PGA of Alberta is proud to officially announce the Top 100 PGA of Alberta Golf Professionals for 2023 as determined by the rankings in the Top 100 Programpresented by Foresight Sports Canada & TaylorMade Golf Canada. See the list below for more details! These Members will receive a custom Top 100 logo recognizing their accomplishment.
This is the highest point total in the history of the Top 100 program, and thirteen Members finished the year with at least 100 points. This program continues to grow year after year, showcasing the development within the PGA of Alberta.
New for 2024 - Program Rotation Year After internal review to align with PGA of Canada, the Association will revert to the original program rotation from October - September. For 2024, the program year will begin January 1, 2024 and run until September 30, 2024 including points for attending the 2023 Buying Show. This will allow the winner from each year to be nominated for the PGA of Canada’s Tex Noble Professional Development Award.
Education News
Hrudey Joins PGA of Alberta Spring Seminar
In the world of professional hockey, what plays out behind closed doors is just as important as what plays out on the ice itself. Former professional goaltender, Hockey Night in Canadabroadcaster andNHL on Sportsnet analyst Kelly Hrudey will take us behind the scenes of his 17-year career with the NHL, sharing stories he lived from both inside and outside the locker room and work life balance while playing in the NHL.
Before launching his broadcast career, Kelly Hrudey spent 17 seasons as an NHL goaltender between Islanders, Kings, and Sharks. In 1987, Hrudey played in a four-overtime Game 7 thriller making 73 saves in a 3-2 Islander win over the Capitals. Prior to joining Sportsnet in 2014, he debuted Hockey Night in Canada radio in 2007. Today, he appears on Hockey Night in Canada and is also a regional colour commentator on the Calgary Flames broadcasts.
Hrudey joined CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada full-time in 1998-99, following four years of contributing to the show on a part-time basis during his final four seasons in the NHL. In addition to his work as a studio analyst, Hrudey served as a co-host for the post-game show, After Hours, and also worked as a game analyst for western game broadcasts.
In 2007, Hrudey received a Gemini Award for Best Studio Analyst, recognizing his work on Hockey Night in Canada. In addition to his work with the NHL, Hrudey has covered three Olympic Winter Games including Salt Lake 2002, Torino 2006, and Sochi 2014.
Hrudey joined the NHL on Sportsnet team in August 2014, bringing more than 20 years of broadcast experience to his role. He is a studio analyst for NHL on Sportsnet national broadcasts, including Hockey Night in Canada, and is also a game analyst for Sportsnet’s Calgary Flames regional broadcasts.
Kelly resides in Calgary, AB, with his wife Donna. They have three daughters, Kaitlin, Megan, and Jessica Hrudey.
Kaitlin and her Husband, Hayden, started More Good Days Clothing company, with their focus to improve awareness about mental health by sharing stories through art, charity, and positive mental health messages.
Kelly is an advocate for mental health awareness and has multiple foundations he represents to continue to spread the word and end the stigma.
Association News
Jim Jempson’s Tribute
JAMES (JIM) HADLEY JEMPSON April 29, 1948 – January 13, 2024
Jim, beloved husband of Shelley, suddenly yet peacefully passed away at the age of 75 surround by his loving Family.
Jim was a Loyal & Proud Husband, Father, Papa, Son, Brother, Uncle and Friend. A Legend & Mentor in the Golf Industry and a cheerleader to us all in Life and Sport.
Jim leaves behind a community who have been profoundly impacted by his Guidance, Wisdom and Compassion. His genuine care for others has forever shaped the lives of those fortunate enough to have known him.
Born in Calgary in 1948 in the Community of Parkhill, Jim’s passion for Sports began at an early age. His Dad, Jimmy, was a professional hockey player & he was determined to follow in his footsteps.
After graduating from Viscount Bennett in 1966, Jim worked for Bud Loftus as a caddy at the Calgary Golf & Country Club, where he fell in Love with the property. After 2 years at the club, he changed sports and moved to BC where he played Hockey for the Nelson Maple Leafs. Jim was proud to tell anyone who would listen, that he was part of the 1968 Cyclone Taylor Cup Championship Team.
In 1970 Jim was offered and accepted a Hockey Scholarship at Bemidji State University in Minnesota, where he was also a member of the golf team. After coming to the realization that he wasn’t going to make the NHL, Jim told us it was time to make a Life Decision, either Audition for Slap Shot 2 with Paul Newman and Hanson Brothers or “Get on with Life”. He chose to get on with Life and what a life it was!!
After moving back to Calgary With No Money and No Job, Jim returned to a familiar place to look for work, Willow Park Golf & Country Club. His parents were original Members there, and Jim grew up playing Junior and Intermediate golf at the club. Head Pro Bill Quilley hired him in April of 1971, Jim said he turned in his hockey stick and skates for a re-spike wrench, a shag bag to hand pick balls on the range and a wet towel to clean clubs.
By the end of June, he was the only Pro shop employee left and his probationary apprenticeship was in full swing resulting in a career that spanned over 50 years.
His passion for golf led him to the Royal Mayfair Golf and Country club in Edmonton under the leadership of Derek & Irene Gibson. Jim then accepted his first Head Professional job at Sturgeon Valley. While in Edmonton, Jim and Shelley got together and eventually purchased a home in St. Albert. According to Jim her contribution was the down payment and three children, his contribution was the mortgage payment and three used cars!
In 1982 Willow Park Golf & Country Club came calling! Jim was offered & accepted the Head Professional Position. Shelley joined Jim in the Pro Shop which was the best move for “Me and Us” according to Jim. As independent concessionaires, the dynamic duo in life and in business were recognized with numerous awards for their talent in merchandising and sales.
Jim has been the recipient of some notable awards and competitions including 1976 PGA of Alberta Championship, 1997 PGA Club Professional of the Year and 2003 PGA of Alberta Merchandiser of the year. Most recently Jim was recognized as the 4th member to receive the PGA of Alberta Lifetime Achievement Award in the Leadership Pillar. Jim was also very proud to be a Life Member of the PGA of Canada.
Over his storied career Jim had the opportunity to play with Legends including Moe Norman, George Knudson, Stan Leonard, Chi Chi Rodriguez, Bob Charles and the Great Arnold Palmer.
Jim was also a philanthropist at heart and during his lifetime he and Shelley contributed personally to numerous charities. The one that held a special place in his heart was the Willow Park Charity Classic. It all began in 1988 with a simple conversation, a glass (or two) of Scotch and notes on a napkin between Jim and Willow Park owner Amos Carpenter. Together that day they created something very special. To date the tournament has donated over 12.7 million dollars to various Calgary Charities.
Jim was “guilty” of sending out handwritten letters of congratulations and encouragement to award winners and new head professionals. He encouraged them to be faithful to their profession and pass on their skills to those that follow.
Jim encouraged them to make a difference in their pursuit of golf excellence.
Outside of Golf, Jim and Shelley loved to travel with trips to Bermuda, Florida, Palm Springs, Arizona, California, Cook Islands, Scotland, England and Wales just to name a few. Maui was their special place, where for over 30 years they enjoyed fun in the sun with their family and friends.
In retirement, Jim & Shelley spent many days travelling around Alberta watching their grandsons play hockey and lacrosse. Jim always said he was on a personal mission to find the perfect arena hot dog!
"To the world he was a man, to us he was the world”
Jim is survived by his loving wife Shelley, his faithful fur buddy Oakley, his Children Kim Carrington (Joanne Johnson)
Martin Carrington
Tanya & Trevor Forbes, Grandsons Cody & Cale
Sister Ismay Seyer, Sister in Law Laurie Martin
Numerous & loving Nieces and Nephews
Jim was predeceased by his Mother Ismay and his Father Jim
We are grateful to the incredible team of Doctors and Nurses at the Rockyview General Hospital Coronary Care Unit for the kindness & compassion given to Jim and our Family during the short time he was in their care.
A Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held at a later date.
In Lieu of Flowers donations can be made to:
Rockyview General Hospital Coronary Care Unit
Heart & Stroke Foundation
Canadian Cancer Society
Education News
Spring Seminar Registration Open Now!
The 2024 Spring Seminar is scheduled for March 4th & 5th at The Derrick G&WC. This will be the second year returning to an in person event and the Education Committee is looking to build off momentum from 2023. Early Bird registration is open Now until February 21st at 4:00pm, don’t miss out on kick starting your 2024 season with the PGA of Alberta Flagship Education Event.
Speaker Announcements
Chris Dornan
MEDIA MUSCLE WITH CHRIS DORNAN
FINDING YOUR STORY, BUILDING BRAND, UNDERSTANDING THE IMPACTS, NAVIGATING FOR SUCCESS
Chris Dornan is one of Canada’s most prolific sports PR consultants, providing media and public relations support over the last 20 years to many of Canada’s amateur and professional athletes and sport organizations.
Having represented Canada at nine Olympic and six Paralympic Games, along with countless major international events, Chris opened his own communications consulting company in 2008 — High-Performance Public Relations – where he provides communications support to Own the Podium along with five of Canada’s summer and winter sport organizations. He has played a key role in building brand and media opportunities for many of Canada’s most successful athletes in winter and summer sport. In addition, Chris is also the media director for two of the PGA TOUR’s leading Champions Tour events: Insperity Invitational (The Woodlands, TX) and Shaw Charity Classic (Calgary).
Media Muscle - the media and brand training leveraged by personal experiences with many of Canada’s top athletes
What Chris will deliver…
Find Your Story.
Learn how to Build Your Brand and stay true to your Brand through good and bad days.
Learn how to create messages and communicate through stories in a compelling way that delivers results
Jeff Hay
VARSITY GOLF RECRUITING: US COLLEGE GOLF RECRUITING SEMINAR
JEFF HAY is a professional consultant who has assisted hundreds of junior golfers and their families navigate the obstacles and challenges of the college golf recruiting process. He has extensive experience in placing golfers in all associations (NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA) and divisions.
Jeff’s knowledge and experience as a college golf advisor was developed over his 16 years as a Director of Golf at three full- time residential junior academies in Florida, including Core Golf Academy (2006-2016), Bishop’s Gate Golf Academy/IJGA (2017- 2019) and Sean Foley Performance (2019- 2022). In his role at each academy, his main focus was to ensure the quality of the golf program and monitor the progress and development of each and every student while assisting them in finding their “best fit” school and golf team at the collegiate level.
A life-long member of the PGA of Canada, Jeff’s passion for assisting junior golfers began when he was the Golf Professional at the National Golf Club of Canada, where he was also the lead instructor for the famed “Elite Junior Program” under the tutelage of former PGA Tour Professional and Canadian Golf Hall-of-fame inductee Ben Kern.
PGA of Alberta Tees Off Ticket Sales for Calgary Golf Show
Only golf show in Alberta to feature enhanced exhibitors, exclusive show specials on equipment and clothing along with competitions and $30,000 in prizing
CALGARY—Mark your calendars Alberta golf fans!
The PGA of Canada golf professionals, retailers and industry leaders throughout the province will unite in Calgary’ BMO Centre (Hall D), March 16-17, to officially tee off the 2024 golf season with Alberta’s only golf and travel show.
More than 4,000 passionate golf enthusiasts from all facets of the game will connect at the 2024 edition of the annual golf celebration to discover the newest innovations, test the latest equipment and technology, capitalize on exclusive deals on golf getaways and build business opportunities.
“In an effort to enhance the golf show experience for our members, exhibitors and golf enthusiasts in the province, this is the first time in our history that we are holding one show in Alberta,” said Robert Rousselle, executive director, PGA of Alberta. “Working together with our members throughout the province, it is our shared goal to deliver an even stronger consumer product to create greater connections in the golf community with industry leaders and Canadian golf professionals, while further growing the game.”
The PGA of Alberta launched ticket sales (Click Here for More Information) for the show in January. Calgary Golf Show general admission tickets: Adults $15; Seniors (65+) $13; Students (13+) $12, Kids (12 and Under) Free online or at the door.
Each ticket will provide access to the Indoor Driving Range, Clearance Centre, exclusive show specials from exhibitors, and a wide range of activities for all golf enthusiasts regardless of age or ability.
Doors open March 16 at 9 a.m. and on March 17 at 10 a.m.The first 50 paid people through the door each day will receive a FREE Canada Golf Card (card valued at $70+).
Manufacturers will be on-hand at the Indoor Driving Range with a new selection of product for attendees to test. Alberta’s top golf instructors will be there to provide tips and fine-tune your game with FREE lessons. Club fitting appointments at the show can also be booked in advance.
Put your tips to the test to win more than $30,000 in great prizes including green fees, equipment or golf destination packages while participating in one of several competitions that will be held including:
All proceeds from contest registrations will support Kids Cancer Care.
After taking a few rips, or ramping up your short game, guests can head over to the Clearance Centre that will be loaded with endless deals on clubs, clothing, and accessories.
This year’s show will also put a greater focus on engaging junior golfers to the game with a full slate of activities. Every junior at the show will receive a club to help them swing into their 2024 golf season. Junior-specific clinics will be held each day from 1 - 2 p.m. in addition to complimentary face painting and balloon twisting (11 a.m. – 1 p.m. both days) by Terrrrrific Face Painting.
“Whether you are a beginner or an avid golfer, it is our goal to make the Calgary Golf Show the place to be in Alberta, and a show you won’t want to miss,” added Rousselle. “This show is the first sign that a new golf season is around the corner and a great place to reconnect with friends in the game to map out your course for the season ahead.”
Find a new place to play at home or book a golf vacation from one of the more than 30 exhibitors.
Exhibitor options are still available until March 8 by Registering Here.
Last Week to Submit A Nomination for the 2024 Board of Directors or Assistants’ Board
Interested in running for a position on either the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors or Assistants’ Board of Directors in 2024? If yes, click the link below (login required) for more information and to be directed to the online Nomination Form. Deadline to submit your interest is thisFriday, January 19th, 2024 at 11:59pm.
Board of Directors The Board of Directors sets all policies, rules and regulations for the PGA of Alberta, meeting on a quarterly basis to conduct the business affairs on behalf of the members. There are between nine and twelve members elected to the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors, all are Class "A" members of the PGA of Canada. Elections to the Board are held every year at the Annual General Meeting in March and election terms are set at three years.
Four (4) spots are open for election in 2024 for the Board of Directors. Click hereto see the current Board.
Assistants’ Board of Directors Assistant Professionals (Class "A") and Apprentice Professionals also have a voice in the Association, through the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Up to nine Class "A" members or Apprentice Professionals are invited to run annually for two-year Committee terms on the Assistants’ Board of Directors, and upon election assume a portfolio, and attend Committee meetings consistent with those on the Board of Directors.
Five (5) spots are open for election in 2024 for the Assistants’ Board of Directors. Click hereto see the current Assistants’ Board.
Staff Update - PGA of Alberta Welcomes Chris Dornan
PGA of Alberta Welcomes Chris Dornan as New Communications Advisor
In an effort to raise awareness of its members, events and programs throughout the province, the PGA of Alberta has named accomplished communications consultant, Chris Dornan, in a newly-created role of communications advisor.
Dornan has come a long way from his days of play-by-play commentary of the games and exploits of his siblings and friends on a quiet cul-de-sac in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, to becoming one of Canada’s most prolific sports PR consultants.
The common thread? Storytelling. And creativity.
Dornan has provided media and public relations support over the last 25 years, specializing with many of Canada’s amateur and professional athletes and sport organizations. Having represented Canada at nine Olympic and five Paralympic Games, along with countless major international events, Dornan opened his own communications consulting company in 2008 — High-Performance Public Relations – where he provides communications support to Own the Podium along with a number of Canada’s summer and winter sport organizations. He has played a key role in building brand and media opportunities for many of Canada’s most successful athletes.
Having launched his career with Golf Canada (1997-2000), Dornan has since made a professional return to the sport as the media director for two of the PGA TOUR’s leading Champions Tour events: Shaw Charity Classic (Calgary) and Insperity Invitational (The Woodlands, TX) where he continues to work closely with the TOUR communications and business affairs teams, along with the players at each of his events. Dornan has also continued to support Golf Canada’s communications team over the years when called upon: providing advice and counsel while serving on communications committees; leading Olympic Team announcements; and he was the lead media advisor on-the-ground for Canada’s golf team at the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games in November.
“There is an obvious professional and business fit with bringing Chris on board to support our increasing operational responsibilities, while helping to tell the important stories of the people in our membership,” said Robert Rousselle, executive director, PGA of Alberta. “A strategic and creative thinker, Chris brings a wealth of media and communications experience and relationships in and outside of our community to the role, with extensive knowledge of the golf industry in Alberta, across Canada and internationally.”
A journalism graduate of Ryerson Polytechnic University in Toronto (now Toronto Metropolitan University), Dornan spent two years in a public relations agency with a client-base that included: Molson, Nike Canada; and Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment before moving west to Calgary to take on the role of director of communications with the Calgary Olympic Development Association (now WinSport) for six years. He has also worked as a news reporter with CTV in Saskatoon, and as a freelance writer for numerous magazines and newspapers across the country.
Dornan has also done work for the Canadian Olympic Committee, Canadian Paralympic Committee, Alberta Government, WestJet, Kyle Shewfelt Gymnastics, Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton, Luge Canada, Triathlon Canada, Ski Jumping Canada, Nordiq Canada, Hockey Canada, Swimming Canada, Curling Canada, Speed Skating Canada, Taekwondo Canada, Karate Canada, Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame, Canadian Sport Institute Calgary, Edge Sport School, Canada Winter and Summer Games and Haywood Securities.
He and his wife Lisa are raising two “Texadians” – born in Texas and now enjoying life as dual citizens – who have fallen in love with the Calgary community while making friends and learning important life lessons as they pursue their own love of sport and play on the ice, at the ballpark, in the pool, and while working with PGA of Alberta golf professionals at their home course, Pinebrook Golf and Country Club.
.png){kind=logo}
