Why did you become a PGA of Canada Professional?
When I made up my mind I wanted to help people to become the best people they can become, golf was the best avenue for me. The only thing I’ve done longer than golf is walk.
What is the most rewarding part about being a member of the PGA of BC?
There is no better feeling than helping someone become better and help them push closer to their goals.
At which golf facility did you first begin working within the industry, and who was the PGA Professional?
I started at Morgan Creek Golf Course with the team of Wayne Vollmer, Brett Saunders and Scott Rodgers. I would not be the coach I am without any of them.
Who has influenced your career the most, and how?
There are many and I want to list them! My dad and my mom, my sisters, my wife, Sean Richardson, Paul Hacker, Kendal Yonemoto, Brian Watts, Scott Fawcett, Jon Reehoorn, Nick Sherwood, Becky Morgan, Riley Wheeldon, Jason Goldsmith, Darcy Dhillon, Leila Harman, Scott Rodgers and Brett Saunders. I’m lucky to have been surrounded by such amazing people. At Morgan Creek, Brett, Scott and Leila have made my learning curve in the golf industry and golf coaching steep and I am so thankful for them.
What career path led you to where you are today?
To make a long story short, I wanted to play professional golf till I was about 20. When I was 20, I was searching and realized I wanted to make people better and that golf was the way for me to do it. With some lucky circumstances and some great people, I’m in one of the best situations I could find myself in.
Which significant accomplishments are you most proud of?
Finishing tied for 2nd at the Mackenzie Tour event in Victoria was cool. My best friend caddied for me and his family, his brother’s family and my wife were all over hanging out for the week. That was special. Caddying and coaching for my friend, Nick Sherwood, in qualifying when he played in the US Open at Olympic Club started my coaching career. Completing my MBA was something that I’d never even dreamed about. But watching kids I coach become better people is probably what I’m most proud of.
If you had to share one piece of advice with a new member of our Association, what would it be?
Find good people, work hard, ask a lot of questions and listen.
What is your most cherished golf memory?
Maybe because of recency bias, my tie for 2nd in Victoria but I’d also put having my dad caddie for me in the Canadian Amateur when I was young and Nick Sherwood playing in the US Open as well.
What is your favourite golf course in British Columbia, and why?
Shaughnessy because it is the most complete golf course in the province.
What is a common misconception that golfers make about what your job entails?
It is 100% that I play a lot.
What is an interesting fact about yourself that doesn't involve golf?
I lucked my way into getting an MBA in 2016. It was hard work with a full time job but I met some amazing people who I’m still friends with today and learned a ton.