Through the years I've learned a lot from many PGA of Canada Professionals while working on my own game. I figured that if I took a piece of knowledge from everyone who mentored me (both teaching styles and technical knowledge), I could make an impact on golfers the way that those PGA members have had on me.

 

I believe that everybody in the PGA of BC genuinely wants the best for one another. Although we all work at different facilities, we share common goal of making golf the most enjoyable for our customers. This creates a sort of bond that lifts the entire industry in our province.

 

Hillview Golf Course in Vernon BC. My first job was on the grounds crew at the age of 15. Keith Vandenbrink was the PGA Professional at the time. I was blown away with his ability to hit it far with an "Ernie Els" rhythm.

 

This is a difficult question because there are so many people who helped me in my journey. As for the golf swing, John Randle and Mac McLeod taught me a ton (and I teach many of their lessons today). Jason Giesbrecht has been a great mentor, as well as Brad Clapp. But my #1 pick would be my Grandad, who was a good player in his day and put a (righty) golf club in my hands as a kid. I putted with it backwards, and I was hooked.

 

My goal was always to see how far I could get as a competitor. This brought me around the world, learning many lessons along the way. There were many highs and lows, and I often asked myself "is this all worth it?" Turns out, it absolutely was. I believe that I can really resonate with a student (who is either succeeding or struggling), because I've been that student myself. These experiences have helped me become an understanding Golf Instructor who can get on a student's level.

 

Winning the CCAA National Championship. We had come close during my time as a Camosun Charger in years prior, so pulling off the victory in my final year was icing on the cake. It was big win for our small program.

 

Take advantage of the Member Assistance Program if you are struggling with your mental health. Last year I recognized that I needed to learn how to deal with stress in a healthy way. I reached out and the program has helped me in so many ways, both on and off the golf course. It is a great resource for our members. If you need it, use it.

 

Chipping golf balls into a garbage can in the backyard of my Nana and Grandad's place. He taught me how to pick my landing spot around the greens, and I teach this lesson to many of my students today (although with a range basket).

 

I think that Ledgeview is the best all-around test in BC, but my favorite to play is the Vernon Golf & Country Club. I spent so much time here as a kid, so it always feels like home when I come back to play.

 

Many think that teaching golf is easy. Sometimes people believe that you just show up and help golfers. But in reality, teaching or coaching requires a lot of planning and problem solving. It can be like trying to figure out an issue with a vehicle. Everything in the golf swing is connected, so if you change one thing, it could effect the rest. It is easy to look at the symptom, but harder to diagnose the root issue. Quite often this requires effort away from the lesson tee.

 

What is an interesting fact about yourself that doesn't involve golf?

I love fishing! Having a fish on can feel like seeing an eagle putt head towards the hole. Landing the fish is like seeing that ball drop. It's a rush.