PGA of BC Member Profile - Scott McClain
June 22, 2022
Why did you become a PGA of Canada Professional?
I think it was to honour my Dad, who provided an opportunity for our family to get into golf. They supported me on and off the course and never forced my decision making. I am inspired to give back to the game and business of golf, one that given me so much to me over the past 25 years.
What is the most rewarding part about being a member of the PGA of BC?
Being included and recognized alongside all the amazing humans who happen to be amazing PGA of BC members. Their strength and dedicated determination, inspires me to continue seeking both mentorship and mentoring opportunities within our association.
At which golf facility did you first begin working within the industry, and who was the PGA Professional?
I am grateful to have worked at Japser Park Lodge Golf Club in my first 2 years as a young apprentice under the mentorship of Alan Carter. "AC" ensured us young aspirants respected the game and became well versed in the business aspects. AC believed in my potential many years ago and I am grateful for that opportunity.
Who has influenced your career the most, and how?
I would say Brian Schaal has had the most influence over the past decade on my career by continually providing an opportunity for me to grow and also allowing me to figure out my own path as I gain more experience. He has the ability to filter out what is important in any situation and always has the best interests of our people in mind. We make a great team operating Copper Point Golf and look forward to leading the way to grow this game and business, we love.
What career path led you to where you are today?
Attended Lethbridge College's 3-year PGM ELITE program and apprenticed for 2 years at Jasper Park Lodge. I then learned the ropes on the road representing Score Golf for 2 years (AB Demo Tour) and a Tech Rep for Callaway Golf for another 3 years across AB and BC's Kootenays. I returned to the club life at Greywolf Golf Course for 8 years growing from Assistant to Associate to Teaching professional. Then Copper Point Golf for 3 years as Director of Instruction now 9 years as Head Professional.
Which significant accomplishments are you most proud of?
I am most proud of how I leave the places I have been. I am confident, each and every facility I have put energy into, has benefited from my presence. I also believe that for as many people I have learned and been mentored by, there are just as many that I have inspired and mentored along the way. This overall positive mindset is an important key, allowing the finer details to fall into place.
If you had to share one piece of advice with a new member of our Association, what would it be?
Go for it! You get out what you put in and often the most valuable learning and experience, is found from seizing the opportunities that present themselves, even if they seem too far fetched at the time. Be aware and mindful to maintain the best balance you can between your career, your family and most importantly, yourself!
What is your most cherished golf memory?
A skill based memory that recently stands out is 'calling a hole in one shot' during the final round of our Kootenay Pro Tour Championship. With Cindy Soukoroff and Matt Gillett waiting for me to stop describing where my ball was going to end up, I pulled off the ACE and managed to claim the snip and finish 3rd in the event!
What is your favourite golf course in British Columbia, and why?
I have yet to play many of the courses in the Lower Mainland and on the Island, so my experience out there is limited. For WOW factor, I would say Greywolf Golf Course at the base of Panorama Ski Resort for bent grass fairways, inspiring views and challenge for all ages and abilities. For the future of golf, shorter courses are essential to continue growing our game. The RIDGE course at Copper Point Golf is our Masters style Par 62 and it's also where I made my first two hole-in-ones!
What is a common misconception that golfers make about what your job entails?
I believe many golfers underestimate how much of the "business of golf" we are responsible for. Often this means that when our "shift" ends, there is still work to do. Any given day or moment, we could be managing people, managing budgets, managing inventory, managing sales & marketing, managing guest experience, and ultimately managing the unexpected. We rely heavily on our own team members and I would encourage them to ask themselves, "How can I help my PGA professional?"
What is an interesting fact about yourself that doesn't involve golf?
For 3 1/2 months each year, I have a career as a professional A.C.M.G. Ski Guide, leading helicopter and ski touring trips into the Columbia and Rocky Mountains. I also volunteer my time year round for our local Columbia Valley Search & Rescue, serving on the Mountain, Avalanche and Swiftwater rescue teams. I love the mountains and try to find regular doses of nature to balance my world.
