After playing college golf in California Kyle joined the PGA of Canada in 1994. Since then Kyle has experienced many roles in the industry including public, private and resort facilities. He has spent many years as a full time teacher and coach and has also been a Head Professional and General Manager. Kyle's playing background is extensive and includes over 40 victories in local PGA of BC events, a PGA of Canada National Championship in 2008 and tournament experience on mini tours, the Canadian Tour and even a PGA Tour start at the 2009 RBC Canadian Open. Interested in learning the game, or taking your current game to the next level? Get in touch with Kyle via email at kyle@baldeaglegc.com
PGA of BC Professional Spotlight -- Kyle German
May 5, 2021
Why did you become a PGA of Canada Professional?
Simple answer... Love of the game. Full disclosure answer... I came home after trying the mini tours, got a warehouse job for a summer, quickly said "this isn't for me" and got a job at a golf course. I had encouragement from my boss to join the PGA and here we are.
What is the most rewarding part about being a member of the PGA of BC?
Being able to do a job I love and see people at work everyday who are happy to be where I am. (Well... happy at least before they tee off, anyway.)
At which golf facility did you first begin working within the industry, and who was the PGA Professional?
The old Tsawwassen Golf & Country Club is where I started my Professional journey. Murray Poje was the Head Professional while I was there.
Who has influenced your career the most, and how?
Honestly, too many to name and from different avenues. Lots of positive models within the industry, a few not so positive and tons of outside the industry influence. Our Executive Director when I joined, Steve Carroll, was someone I looked up to quite a bit as a young Professional, and another member who influenced me greatly (I doubt he even knows this) was/is Michael Mather, General Manager at University Golf Club.
What career path led you to where you are today?
It's been a long, winding and crazy road. Not a lot of straight lines for me. I always wanted to see all aspects of the industry, so I worked at public, private and resort settings. I spent time at established facilities and helped open up a couple new facilities as well. I have been a full-time instructor for about 10 of my years in the industry, I have been an Associate Professional, a Head Professional and a General Manager. I've done it all, and everyday I still learn something!
Which significant accomplishments are you most proud of?
Winning the 2008 PGA of Canada Club Professional Championship is something I am very proud of.
If you had to share one piece of advice with a new member of our Association, what would it be?
Diversify. Learn it all. Be as well rounded as you can. Once you have experienced many aspects of the industry it will be easier to internalize what really drives you and will allow you to narrow your career focus.
What is your most cherished golf memory?
Playing in the 2009 RBC Canadian Open at Glen Abbey. As with most of us playing a PGA tour event was always a dream. At 36 years old I had long ago assumed that opportunity would not happen for me. I remember everything about it.
What is your favourite golf course in British Columbia, and why?
So many I have not played yet... Vancouver Golf Club is up there, Shaughnessy is tough to beat... I am a huge fan of A.V. Macan and Royal Colwood is always high on my list.
What is a common misconception that golfers make about what your job entails?
I think we all have had this one.... That we play golf ALL the time.