PGA of Canada 2025 National Awards Winners

The PGA of Canada is thrilled to announce the winners of its 2025 National Awards.

All award winners will be celebrated during Canada Night at the PGA Show in Orlando on January 21, 2026.

Registration for the event can be found here.

Without further ado, here are the winners:

Murray Tucker Club Professional of the Year

Marc-André Piette has been named the PGA of Canada Murray Tucker Club Professional of the Year, a fitting honour for a leader whose impact is felt at every level of the game. Recently appointed Head Professional at Vallée du Richelieu, Piette has built a reputation as a rising star through steady career progression, humility, and an unwavering commitment to people.

Known as both an exceptional mentor and engaged mentee, Piette has left a lasting legacy through his dedication to Apprentices and Associates, ensuring they have the tools, support, and work-life balance needed to thrive. A devoted father of four, with a spouse who is also a PGA of Canada Professional, he understands the demands of leadership on and off the course.

Beyond his operational success, Piette has been a transformative leader within the Ottawa Zone, serving on its Board for a decade and as President for three consecutive terms. He played a key role in strengthening governance, expanding programming, and growing member participation, while also championing initiatives such as Pro-Junior, Pro-Lady, and partnerships with Special Olympics Ottawa. Whether mentoring peers, leading at the national level, or revitalizing junior and women’s programming at the club level, Piette consistently elevates the profession and those around him.

In 2025, Piette delivered remarkable results, growing golf operations net profit by 700%, while achieving record member satisfaction. A longtime leader within the Ottawa Zone and now a PGA National Board member, Piette’s vision, governance expertise, and passion for growing the game exemplify the spirit of the Murray Tucker Award.

Dick Munn Executive Professional of the Year

Tom Monaghan has been named the recipient of the PGA of Canada Dick Munn Executive Professional of the Year Award, recognizing a career defined by visionary leadership, operational excellence, and a lasting commitment to growing the game. Founder and President of Monaghan Golf Inc., Monaghan established the company in 2009 after securing the contract to operate Fraserview Golf Course for the Vancouver Park Board. Since then, he has grown the organization into one of Western Canada’s most respected golf management companies.

Under Monaghan’s leadership, Monaghan Golf Inc. has expanded from a single facility to a portfolio of seven golf courses across British Columbia, serving more than 350,000 rounds annually and generating over $10 million in revenue. In 2025, the company achieved a historic milestone by being awarded the operations contract for all three City of Vancouver municipal golf courses—the first single operator to do so. Monaghan oversees a robust executive team and nearly 200 seasonal staff, including 19 PGA of Canada Professionals, while maintaining a culture of collaboration, accountability, and exceptional employee retention.

Monaghan’s impact extends well beyond business success. He is widely respected for his commitment to talent development, mentorship, and inclusive workplace culture, as well as his leadership during challenging periods such as the COVID-19 pandemic and major course remediation projects. A dedicated servant of the profession, Monaghan has served on both the PGA of BC and PGA of Canada Boards, including six years on the PGA of Canada National Board, where he held roles as Secretary and Chair of the Finance Committee.

Through innovative junior programs, academies, and community outreach initiatives, Monaghan has played a pivotal role in growing participation and accessibility across the region. His career exemplifies the values of leadership, integrity, and service that define the Dick Munn Executive Professional of the Year Award.

George Knudson Teacher of the Year

Mike Martz has been named the 2025 PGA of Canada George Knudson Teacher of the Year. A valued member of the instructional team at Whistle Bear Golf Club, Martz has made a lasting impact through his unwavering commitment to teaching excellence, mentorship, and long-term player development. His work consistently reflects the highest standards of professionalism and care, setting a benchmark for golf instruction in Canada.

Martz is widely respected for his ability to connect with students of all ages and skill levels, creating a learning environment that is engaging, supportive, and results-driven. Whether guiding beginners or developing competitive juniors, he tailors each program to the individual, delivering personalized instruction supported by clear development plans. His thoughtful communication style, technical expertise, and talent for simplifying complex concepts have played a vital role in the continued growth and success of Whistle Bear’s golf academy. Many of his students have gone on to compete at the provincial and national levels, benefitting from his steady guidance both on the range and at competitions.

In addition to coaching players, Martz has made a significant impact by teaching teachers. As a facilitator of NCCP workshops for the PGA of Canada and Golf Canada—including Community Golf Coach, First Tee Levels 2/3 and 4, and Coach of New Competitors—he has helped prepare nearly 400 coaches and instructors. His work with college golf management programs and First Tee initiatives has further expanded access to golf and life skills in underserved communities, exponentially growing the game.

Of all the programs Mike has created, he notes that he is most proud of the Golfers with Disabilities Clinics, which he initiated in 1999 and ran for 10 years with the City of Kitchener, Kidsability and the Waterloo Region Separate and Public-School Boards. The four-week summer program introduced golf to 20 children and adults with mental and physical challenges. With volunteers, he provided instruction, retrofit clubs for participants, and assisted them in playing a weekly three-hole scramble and mini putt tournament. As a kinesiologist, he was able to design a program that addressed the unique challenges faced by the participants.

Martz embodies the values of the PGA of Canada and exemplifies the very best in golf instruction, making him a truly deserving recipient of this prestigious national award.

Jack McLaughlin Junior Leader of the Year sponsored by UpSwing Golf

Jason Schneider has been named the 2025 PGA of Canada Jack McLaughlin Junior Leader of the Year Award, recognizing a career defined by passion, inclusivity, and an unwavering commitment to growing junior golf in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, and across Canada. A PGA of Canada member since 2009, Schneider has served as Director of Junior Golf at Wildwood Golf Course for 17 years and has become the unmistakable face of junior golf in his community.

Schneider leads an extensive and diverse range of junior programs at Wildwood, introducing young players to the game and creating pathways to keep them engaged long-term. From Learn to Golf programs, junior sections, camps, and skills competitions to competitive team training, his programs provide a structured, safe, and welcoming environment for golfers of all abilities.

His impact extends well beyond the club, including 15 years of involvement with Autism Services of Saskatoon, coaching high-functioning youth with autism, serving as head coach of the Walter Murray’s High School golf team, and delivering First Tee programs through Golf Canada.

A sought-after coach and mentor, Schneider has built a unique team culture in an individual sport, fostering camaraderie and mutual support among athletes of varying ages and skill levels. He emphasizes holistic development, addressing not only technical skills but also physical wellness, nutrition, mental performance, and life skills. His dedication is further reflected in his hands-on tournament support, mentorship that extends into post-secondary careers, and strong engagement with families.

Through leadership, innovation, and genuine care for every junior he coaches, Schneider exemplifies the spirit of the Jack McLaughlin Junior Leader of the Year Award and continues to inspire the next generation of golfers.

Ben Kern Coach of the Year

Derek Ingram, the Head Coach of Golf Canada’s Men’s National Team from Elmhurst Golf & Country Club in Winnipeg, has been named the 2025 PGA of Canada Ben Kern Coach of the Year, marking the third time he has earned the prestigious honour and the sixth National PGA of Canada Award of his distinguished career. Widely regarded as one of Canada’s most influential high-performance coaches, Ingram’s impact spans both the amateur and professional levels of the game. 

Ingram has coached Team Canada at three Olympic Games (2016 in Brazil, 2021 in Japan and 2024 in France) and at eight World Junior Team Championships and six World Amateur Team Championships, including a silver-medal performance in Japan in 2014. On the professional stage, he is a full-time PGA Tour coach to Corey Conners and Taylor Pendrith, working across all facets of performance including full swing, short game, putting and the mental game. He also coaches DP World Tour player Aaron Cockerill and several Korn Ferry Tour players, including 2025 winners Sudarshan Yellamaharju and Myles Creighton. Notably, Ingram coached and mentored Yellamaharju to a PGA Tour card in 2025, making him the first new Canadian to do so in four years.

A pioneer in high-performance coaching, Ingram has long embraced cutting-edge technology, innovative practice models and holistic athlete development. He co-founded the University of Manitoba men’s and women’s golf programs, co-authored three books on mental skills with Dr. Garry Martin, and has written more than 100 coaching articles. Beyond performance, Ingram is a leader in coach education, safe sport advocacy and mentorship, leaving a lasting legacy on Canadian golf.

Pat Fletcher Retailer of the Year

Jerry Butler has been named the 2025 PGA of Canada Pat Fletcher Retailer of the Year, recognizing his outstanding leadership and vision in creating one of Canada’s most innovative and guest-focused golf retail operations at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley.

TPC Toronto hosts more than 58,000 rounds annually across its three championship courses — North, Hoot and Heathlands — placing it among the busiest premier public golf destinations in the country. Under Butler’s leadership, the golf shops have evolved into dynamic retail environments that serve as both a commercial centre and a storytelling platform for the TPC Toronto brand. Butler dedicates the majority of his role to retail strategy and merchandising and remains deeply hands-on in all aspects of the operation, from long-term planning to daily execution across two distinct pro shop settings.

A hallmark of the program is its creativity and precision. Butler has led the development of unique, course-specific branding and brought it to life through thoughtful in-store merchandising. Displays are refreshed on a near-weekly basis, with more than 50 visual resets annually, all driven by data, guest flow and seasonal demand. This disciplined, performance-based approach consistently drives strong engagement and retail momentum throughout the season.

The retail environments extend the memory of each golfer’s visit through exclusive merchandise, limited-edition collections and activations tied to national events such as the RBC Canadian Open and the Osprey Valley Open. Butler also works closely with leading vendors, curates premium assortments and places a strong emphasis on staff training and development to ensure a consistent, high-quality guest experience.

Through innovation, analytics and an unwavering commitment to service, Jerry Butler has helped establish TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley as a national standard in modern golf retail, making him a deserving recipient of the Pat Fletcher Retailer of the Year Award.

Moe Norman Apprentice Professional of the Year

Ian Penner of Winnipeg has been named the Moe Norman Apprentice Professional of the Year, recognizing his exceptional growth, leadership, and commitment to excellence at Southwood Golf & Country Club. Serving a private club of more than 950 active members, Penner has played a central role in delivering a consistently high-quality golf experience while managing a full calendar of operations year-round.

Over the past year, Penner stepped into a major leadership role following the departure of a senior professional, transitioning quickly from mentorship to full operational responsibility. He now oversees the golf operation, retail shop, backshop, practice facilities, and indoor simulators, while supervising a seasonal staff of 33. His leadership has ensured seamless execution across daily operations, staffing schedules, events, leagues, and member services, all with a strong focus on professionalism and attention to detail.

Penner has demonstrated outstanding operational acumen, taking ownership of buying plans, inventory management, budgeting, and club fitting, while also leading significant offseason initiatives. These included major simulator upgrades, backshop optimization projects, and the implementation of a new tee sheet and POS system—efforts that required extensive data management, staff training, and problem-solving under pressure.

Beyond operations, Penner is deeply committed to mentorship and growing the profession. He actively supports aspiring professionals through guidance, education, and employment opportunities, while also serving on the Assistants Board and leading education workshops across the Zone. His work in junior programming, member events, and professional development has elevated standards locally and inspired those around him.

Ian Penner’s progression from apprentice to leader reflects a passion for the game, a dedication to service, and a clear trajectory toward becoming a future Head Professional—making him a deserving recipient of this national honour.

Stan Leonard Class “A” Assistant Professional of the Year

Tyler Leicht has been named the 2025 PGA of Canada Class “A” Assistant Professional of the Year, recognizing his outstanding leadership, professionalism, and wide-ranging impact across club operations, coaching, education, and community engagement.

Leicht plays a vital leadership role in both the daily operations and long-term success of The Derrick Club. His responsibilities span golf operations, member services, staff mentorship, instructional programming, and cross-departmental coordination, all with a consistent focus on delivering an exceptional experience for members and guests. He has been instrumental in integrating Golf Genius across tournaments, leagues, and pro shop operations, while also leading staff training to ensure efficiency, accuracy, and high service standards.

Leicht is deeply involved in retail merchandising, vendor relations, and personalized member service, while also serving as a key organizer for major men’s events and leagues. His ability to balance competitive excellence with social engagement has helped elevate participation and enhance the club’s sense of community.

A passionate advocate for junior development, Leicht plays a central role in delivering inclusive, year-round junior golf programming for players aged 3 to 18, ranging from introductory programs to competitive development teams. His commitment to mentorship extends to new professionals, junior staff, and aspiring PGA members, both within his facility and across the Zone.

Beyond the club, Leicht serves on the PGA of Alberta Assistants’ Board of Directors and was elected Vice President in 2025, contributing to education, professional development, and community outreach initiatives. As Head Coach of the NAIT Ooks Golf Team, he has guided the program to sustained competitive success while emphasizing leadership, academics, and personal growth.

Through service, innovation, and mentorship, Tyler Leicht exemplifies the values of the PGA of Canada and is a deserving recipient of this national honour.

Warren Crosbie Community Leader of the Year

Jeff Palmer, General Manager at Highland Pacific Golf in Victoria, B.C., has been named the 2025 PGA of Canada Warren Crosbie Community Leader of the Year for his transformational commitment to community engagement, mental health advocacy, and inclusive leadership through the game of golf.

Palmer has redefined what community leadership looks like in the golf industry through his signature initiative, the annual Moodswing Golf for Mental Health tournament. More than a fundraising event, Moodswing has become a platform for open dialogue and stigma reduction, creating safe spaces where professional golfers share their mental health journeys alongside their competitive achievements. This courageous approach has helped normalize mental health conversations in sport and provided powerful role models for young people navigating similar challenges.

Beyond a single event, Palmer demonstrated extraordinary vision in 2024 by launching a year-round “Calendar of Caring” at Highland Pacific Golf. By pairing monthly men’s and women’s night events with charitable partners, he built sustained relationships with organizations supporting youth mental health, cancer research, rare diseases, children’s health, men’s health, and international education initiatives. This strategic, consistent approach showed how golf facilities can serve as year-round convenors for social good rather than relying on isolated charity events.

Palmer’s initiatives have had tangible impact, particularly for youth living with mental illness in Greater Victoria. Funds raised enabled students to participate in mental health summits, develop peer-support skills, and return to their schools as mental wellness ambassadors—creating ripple effects that extend far beyond the golf course.

Through innovation, authenticity, and unwavering dedication, Jeff Palmer has created cultural change, strengthened communities, and demonstrated the powerful role golf can play in building a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Tex Noble Professional Development Award

Tristan Mullally has been named the 2025 PGA of Canada Tex Noble Professional Development Award recipient in recognition of his exceptional contributions to coach education, mentorship, and the advancement of professional development across Canada. Through his role with Golf Canada and his long-standing service to the PGA of Canada, Mullally has helped shape how coaches learn, connect, and deliver excellence at every level of the game.

A respected leader in coach development, Mullally has contributed to a wide range of national education initiatives, including updates to Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) Version 2, Coach Developer (CDC) training and evaluation, and CNC and CDC content reviews. He has facilitated coach seminars across the country and served as a keynote speaker for PGA of Ontario, PGA of BC, Alberta Golf, Nova Scotia Golf, and Golf Manitoba, helping align provincial programs with national best practices.

His impact extends well beyond the classroom. Mullally has created and delivered extensive educational media, including more than 50 videos and articles for Golf Canada, 10-plus features for Scoregolf Magazine, and technical content for organizations such as Foresight Sports, BodiTrak, Golf Lab, and Tour Habits. As a PGA of Canada technical advisory board member, he has supported the development of coach pathway tools, performance analysis modules, and practice-planning resources.

Equally important is Mullally’s commitment to mentorship and inclusion. He has voluntarily mentored more than 15 coaches nationally and helped create the Women in Coaching program, now in its fourth year supporting over 50 female coaches across Canada. A former Ben Kern Coach of the Year recipient, Mullally continues to represent the PGA of Canada with professionalism and purpose, embodying the spirit of lifelong learning and leadership that defines the Tex Noble Professional Development Award.

Brooke Henderson Female Player of the Year

Christine Wong, PGA of BC:

2nd place – PGA Women’s Championship of Canada

2nd place – PGA of British Columbia Women’s Championship

Mike Weir Male Player of the Year

Dillon Batsel, PGA of Alberta

2nd place – PGA Championship of Canada

8th place – PGA Assistants’ Championship of Canada

3rd place – PGA of Alberta Zone Championship

2nd place – PGA of Alberta Assistants’ Championship