International Competition. Lasting Friendships. An Experience for a Lifetime.

The Canadian Junior Golf Association (CJGA) is proud to celebrate the players, families, coaches, partners and hosts who came together for the 2026 North America Cup, held August 23rd to 26th at the spectacular Vidanta Vallarta Golf Course in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

This tournament was an unforgettable opportunity to represent Canada on an international stage, experience a world-class golf destination, compete alongside leading junior golfers from across North America, and build friendships that will extend well beyond the final putts.

For our players, the journey began several days before their arrival in Mexico.

Team Canada’s Roster

This year’s Team Canada roster included Niko Tran, Grayson Stramaglia, Vivian Zhao, Milana Montenegrino, Hudson Kelahear, William Hercun, Caleb Dickson, Liam King, Brody Alexander, and Brock McKenzie. We were beyond proud to have players of such skill, dedication, and character representing our country.

Each member of the team brought passion, determination, and pride to the international stage. Their kindness and fellowship toward their fellow competitors from Team Mexico and Team Bermuda did not go unnoticed.

Their sportsmanship is a shining example of what junior golf is all about.

Thanking Our Partners

The CJGA would like to recognize and thank the partners who helped make the Team Canada experience possible.

PING provided the team’s beautiful Team Canada golf bags.

Levelwear outfitted the players in professional Team Canada uniforms.

Graeme R. Kirkland, CIM supplied the team with world-class golf balls for competition.

David Fritz Golf Academy provided coaching expertise during our team practice.

The Canadian Junior Golf Association sincerely appreciates these partners’ commitment to junior golf and the development of young Canadian athletes.

Thanking Our Families

No international junior golf experience can happen without the support of parents and families.

The CJGA offers immense thanks to the families of our golfers. You’ve made travel arrangements, stuck by us through long days on the course, done laundry for the players, helped with dinner reservations, and even acted as extra sets of eyes to ensure the trip went smoothly and safely. Thank you for everything you did to make the trip easier.

Your support allows these young athletes to play in international competitions, experience different cultures, and have the opportunity to represent their country. Those experiences are sure to stay with them long after the tournament has concluded.

The Team Canada Journey

August 19th and well before — Getting Ready for the Journey

The North America Cup experience began at home, with players and families preparing for international team travel. Passports, travel documents, money, personal items, snacks and other essentials were checked and confirmed as the team prepared for the journey ahead.

For many of the players, this was their first opportunity to experience what it means to travel and compete as part of an international national team.

August 20th — Team Canada Begins to Come Together

With players arriving in Toronto from across the country, the Team Canada group began to assemble. The first members of the team arrived in Toronto, setting the stage for the official Team Canada preparation day and the final preparations before departing for Mexico.

August 21st — TEAM CANADA MEET-UP

Friday was an important day for Team Canada. The players met at Bathurst Glen Golf Club for a Team Canada meet-and-greet, practice session, and final prep day before heading to Mexico.

This was more than simply a practice day. It was the first opportunity for the entire group to come together as a team. Players transferred their equipment into their official Team Canada golf bags and received their Team Canada uniforms and equipment.

Each player received a comprehensive Team Canada package that included custom team shirts, shorts, hats, monogrammed personal team backpacks, team golf bags from PING, a Team Canada towel, Titleist Pro V1s as provided by Graeme Kirkland, alignment sticks, team umbrellas, and a slew of additional equipment.

Uniforms were packed, golf equipment was prepared and the team’s luggage was transported to the hotel. The team then shared lunch before spending the afternoon practicing, preparing and participating in team discussions. By mid-afternoon, the golf bags were loaded for transportation and the players headed to the hotel to settle in. The evening provided one of the first memorable team-building moments of the trip.

Players enjoyed a Team Canada pizza dinner and swim at Coach Shayne Dysart’s home in Newmarket, giving everyone a chance to relax, laugh and get to know their teammates before the international competition began.

By 7:30 PM the players were back at the hotel, with lights out at 8:30 PM in preparation for the early start the following morning. The team was ready.

August 22nd — TEAM CANADA HEADS TO MEXICO

The alarm went off at 4:00 AM. Team Canada players were up, dressed in their Team Canada travel uniforms and ready for the journey south. At 4:30 AM, the team departed for Toronto Pearson International Airport. By 5:30 AM, the group was together at Terminal 3, preparing for the WestJet flight to Puerto Vallarta.

After months of preparation, selection and anticipation, the moment had finally arrived.

Team Canada was on its way to Mexico. Players and coaches travelled together, while Vivian Zhao made her way from Vancouver to join the team in Puerto Vallarta. Upon arrival, the Mexican Junior Golf Association (MJGA) provided transportation from the airport to the Vidanta Resort, welcoming Team Canada to Mexico.

The players settled into the resort, enjoyed their first evening team dinner together at La Catina restaurant and began preparing for the competition ahead.

August 23rd — WELCOME TO VIDANTA

The first full day in Mexico began with a 7:30 AM breakfast before the team headed to the golf course for the official practice round. Players took to the course in scheduled groups, getting their first extended look at the Vidanta Vallarta layout and preparing for the competitive days ahead.

The practice round was an important opportunity to learn the course, understand the conditions, and develop a strategy for the competition. Following the opening nine holes, the players refuelled with lunch before continuing their preparation.

A welcoming ceremony was held at the driving range to officially welcome the participating teams and celebrate the event’s international nature.

This was the moment that the trip truly became an international competition. The players were no longer simply junior golfers travelling to Mexico.

They were Team Canada.

August 24th — PREPARATION, COMPETITION & TEAMWORK

The first day of competition involved a two-player team Best Ball & Match Play.

The team started the day with breakfast before returning to the course. The arrival brought a special moment—the North America Cup Opening Ceremony. The competition began as the first day of the North America Cup got underway, and spectators, families, and friends were eager for play to start.

Delicious lunches provided a much-needed energy boost during the round of golf.

After the round, the players had time to relax and enjoy snacks by the pool before coming together again as a team. These moments away from the golf course became just as important as the golf itself.

Players were building friendships, sharing experiences, and developing the camaraderie that makes international team competition so special.

August 25th — THE COMPETITION INTENSIFIES

The second day of competition involved a two-player team Scramble & Match Play.

With the competition continuing and Mexico in the lead, Team Canada returned to the course for another important day of golf, needing to make up ground on Mexico.

Breakfast, preparation, and the scheduled round were followed by lunch and time together as a team.

The players continued to demonstrate the qualities expected of Team Canada—focus, perseverance, respect and sportsmanship. While everyone wanted to win, the team understood that the North America Cup was also about representing Canada the right way. The players supported one another throughout the day and continued to build relationships with their fellow competitors from the other participating nations.

After the day’s golf, the team enjoyed some downtime by the pool before preparing for the final day.

August 26th — FINAL DAY & CLOSING CEREMONY

The third day of competition involved individual Gross Play & Match Play.

The day of the final round began much like the others, with breakfast, preparation, and a return to the golf course. Of course, this day was more significant.

After several days of hard-fought competition, Canada had a final chance to catch up to Bermuda and Mexico in the North America Cup, but the odds were long, and the competition was fierce as the event drew closer to its conclusion. Team Canada players competed with pride and determination, giving everything they had through the final holes.

Following the completion of the day’s golf, players, coaches, and teams gathered at the Vidanta Pro Shop for the North America Cup Closing Ceremonies.

The ceremony marked the end of the official competition and celebrated the accomplishments of every player and team. At the conclusion of the event, Team Mexico emerged as the champions, with all participating teams demonstrating tremendous skill, energy and sportsmanship throughout the competition.

Regardless of the results, Team Canada left Mexico with the pride of representing their country and the memories they created together.

AUGUST 27th — THE JOURNEY HOME

After breakfast and the final morning at Vidanta, Team Canada departed for Puerto Vallarta International Airport. The return journey included connections through Calgary before the team arrived back in Toronto early Friday morning, August 28th. For most of the players, the North America Cup experience was officially complete. But for some, the Mexican adventure continued.

Niko Tran returned home with his parents after extending his Mexican golf experience by a few more days.

More than a Golf Tournament

The North America Cup is designed to give young golfers something traditional junior tournaments often can’t: a genuine international team experience.

Over the course of the journey, Team Canada players experienced team preparation in Canada, international travel, world-class golf, team competition, different cultures, opening and closing ceremonies, shared meals, team activities, friendships with players from other countries, and, of course, the responsibility of representing Canada.

These are experiences they won’t soon forget.

A World-Class Host Venue

The CJGA extends its sincere appreciation to the Mexican Junior Golf Association (MJGA) and the entire Vidanta Vallarta Resort team for their outstanding hospitality. The Greg Norman-designed golf course provided an exceptional stage for international junior competition, combining a challenging layout with Puerto Vallarta’s spectacular surroundings.

The Vidanta team went above and beyond throughout the week. From the condition of the golf course to the food and beverage service and overall hospitality, every detail contributed to an unforgettable experience for players, coaches and families.

The opportunity to compete in such a spectacular setting is one reason the North America Cup remains a unique international junior golf experience.

A MESSAGE FROM TEAM CANADA COACH SHAYNE DYSART, PGA OF CANADA

CJGA Director of Operations and Team Canada Coach Shayne Dysart reflected on the experience:

“I want to sincerely thank everyone who assisted in making this North America Cup such a success. The support we received from the families, volunteers, the Mexican Junior Golf Association and the Vidanta Resort was nothing short of outstanding. Events like this simply would not be possible without the generosity and dedication of so many people. Just as importantly, our new and growing friendships with Team Mexico and Team Bermuda remind us that while competition drives us, the bonds we build truly last. The North America Cup is a celebration of golf, respect and friendship, and I could not be more proud of what our players accomplished together.”

Looking Ahead to 2027

The success of the 2026 North America Cup continues to demonstrate the importance of international team competition in the development of young golfers.

Planning is already underway for the 2027 North America Cup, with discussions involving Bermuda and the Brazilian Golf Association as the event continues to expand its international footprint.

The 2027 event is expected to welcome teams from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, the United States, Jamaica, Guatemala, South America, and potentially Brazil.

As more countries become involved, the North America Cup is developing into a truly international junior golf experience. For a young golfer, few experiences compare with putting on a national team uniform and representing your country. The North America Cup gives junior golfers the opportunity to compete internationally while developing confidence, independence, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

It provides the chance to travel, experience new cultures, play world-class golf, and form friendships with young athletes from around the world. Perhaps most importantly, it also creates memories. Memories of the first Team Canada meeting, the first time putting on the uniform, the early-morning flight, walking onto a world-class golf course, standing beside teammates during the opening ceremony, competing for your country, sharing meals and stories with players from other nations, and finally, standing together at the closing ceremony knowing you were part of something bigger than yourself.

YOUR COUNTRY. YOUR TEAM. YOUR OPPORTUNITY.

The 2026 North America Cup marked another important milestone in our effort to elevate Canada’s presence in international junior golf. Our next chapter is already being written. The only question is, could you be wearing the Team Canada uniform at the next North America Cup?

Join the journey; your future starts here.

In August 2026, eight remarkable young athletes travelled across the Atlantic to Scotland to represent not only themselves, their families, and the CJGA, but also their country and the Canadian flag at one of the world’s most prestigious junior international golf competitions, the Euro Cup in St. Andrews, Scotland. Their performances, character, and camaraderie—all nothing short of extraordinary—enabled them to overcome formidable American, Mexican, and Scottish opponents.

Team Canada Roster

The team, led by co-captains Luke MacDonald and Caden Smith, also included Solomon Tong, Hayden McManes, Ian Bavis, Brenin Devlin, and Mateo SobbJaxon Sigalet.

Gratitude to Parents, Families, and Supporters

This incredible achievement would not have been possible without the trust, commitment, and support of the parents and families. Your encouragement gave these athletes the foundation to thrive. We also extend thanks to our coaches, supporters, and the entire CJGA community, who all played a part in preparing Team Canada to compete and succeed on one of golf’s most celebrated stages.

I must also personally thank my wife, Kimberley Cocquyt, who not only traveled with the team but also provided invaluable support and warmth throughout the journey. The kindness and respect shown to her by the players was deeply appreciated and speaks volumes about the maturity and professionalism of this team.

A Journey That Began in Toronto

The Euro Cup adventure began in late July in Toronto. The players arrived on the 29th and stayed at my home. Those early days were about more than training—they were about bonding, building trust, and preparing as one united team.

• JUL 28: Players arrived from across the country, and the journey was underway.
• JUL 29: Training at Bathurst Glen Golf Course with CJGA National Team Coach David Fritz, followed by match play at Osprey Valley’s where we played the LINKS style golf course against 35 MNPH winds, giving the boys a sense of what was to come. In the evening, we enjoyed a team and parent BBQ.
• JUL 30: Morning practice and then some match play golf at the famed and very private Maple Downs Golf Club, capped by another team dinner at home.
• JUL 31: Final day in Toronto featuring a swim and BBQ before boarding an 8:00 PM Air Canada Flight to Edinburgh.

These days, filled with barbecues, swims, laughter, and team bonding, laid the foundation for everything that was to come. For Kimberley and me, they remain some of our most special memories of the entire trip.

Competing on Scottish Soil

Once in Scotland, the team embraced every opportunity to challenge themselves and soak in the history of the game:

• AUG 1: Arrival at St. Leonard’s private school and golf at Lunden Links Golf Club with Team Mexico.

• AUG 2: Walked the OLD COURSE on Sunday morning and enjoyed all it offered, then a team putting contest at the Himalay Purring course, then an afternoon of practice at the St. Andrews Golf Academy.

• AUG 3: The Leven Links Junior Open, where Caden Smith, team co-captain, won the event with a fine round of 70, besting the field as a low medal player for the event. The morning included a memorable team photo-op at the legendary Swilcan Bridge. The Mexican, American and Canadian teams enjoyed an amazing dinner that was hosted at the NEW COURSE clubhouse adjacent from the Old Course 18th hole. Preceding dinner, the teams were piped to the NEW CLUB by Caden Smith, who is a Team Canada member and a professional Scottish piper.

• AUG 4: Morning shopping and St. Andrews touring followed by a culturally enriching visit to the St. Andrews R&A Golf Museum. In the afternoon, we enjoyed a Crail practice-round day, culminating in a competition at Crail Golfing Society’s Craighead Course.

• AUG 5: 1st Round of the Euro Cup at Leven Links.
• Results: USA (17), Canada (14), Mexico (8.5), Scotland (8.5)

• AUG 6: 2nd Round at Crail Golfing Society.
• Results: USA (12), Canada (19.5), Mexico (11.5), Scotland (5)

• AUG 7: 3rd Round at St. Andrews Castle Course, followed by a celebratory dinner and night out at the St. Andrews fair.
• Results: USA (10), Canada (11), Mexico (11), Scotland (15)

Final Matchplay Scores:

• Canada: 44.5
• USA: 39
• Mexico: 31
• Scotland: 28.5

• AUG 8: A bittersweet day as the trip had come to a close with our flight back to Canada.

The team enjoyed Jannetta’s Gelato, Mozza Pizza, Criterion meat pies, Cromar’s fish and chips, Pret fresh deli sandwiches, Nando’s chicken, Shawarma, Gourmet hamburgers, and Maisha Indian Restaurant.

The Euro Cup was about much more than golf. It was about resilience, teamwork, and growth. Every player demonstrated maturity beyond their years, navigating challenges with perseverance and supporting each other through every round. Whether at team meals, sightseeing excursions, practice sessions, playing golf in 40 mph+ winds, at the driving range or even casual shopping trips, the players built friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.

A Victory for Team Canada

The victory at the Euro Cup was not just a win on the scorecard. It was a triumph of commitment, grit, and the spirit of true teammates supporting one another. Each player carried themselves with professionalism and pride, representing not only the CJGA but also their families and the Canadian flag with dignity and passion.

As an added honour for being part of this international team, each player has been granted an exemption into the Mexican Junior Golf Association Invitational, along with a number of other international events such as the Champion of Champions in Ireland, further strengthening CJGA’s international ties and providing our athletes with more opportunities to showcase their skills abroad.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

This journey would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors:

PING: Thank you to Ping for providing Team Canada with world-class golf bags, helping them look the part every step of the way.

Levelwear: Thank you to the Levelwear team for outfitting our athletes in uniforms that allowed them to represent Canada with style, pride and unity.

David Fritz Golf Academy: For providing expert-coaching that lead the team to a second consecutive victory.

Graeme R. Kirkland, CIM: Thank you to Graeme Kirkland for equipping the team with Pro V1 Titleist golf balls that supported them throughout Scotland’s demanding links golf.

Jack Link’s: Thank you to Jack Link’s for providing their Mr. Beast original meat sticks, which gave Team Canada the extra energy they needed to compete and seal their victory.

CJGA: And, of course, a tremendous thank you to the Canadian Junior Golf Association for providing the players with exceptional team gear and ongoing support both on and off the golf course.

Your contributions ensured that our athletes had everything they needed to compete at the highest level while showcasing Canadian pride on the international stage.

Looking Ahead to 2027

The journey continues. The official selection process for the 2027 Euro Cup Team is already underway. We are thrilled to announce that the World Junior Championship in Florida will serve as the official selection event. It would also be a privilege to welcome back any of this year’s team members to defend the title in 2027.

Final Thanks

On behalf of the CJGA, Kimberley, and myself, I extend a final thank you to:

• The players, for their hard work, perseverance, and exemplary representation of Canada.
• The parents and families, for their unwavering trust and support.
• The coaches and staff, including David Fritz, for helping prepare the team for the highest level of competition.
• The sponsors and partners who generously outfitted and equipped our team.
• The entire CJGA community, whose support continues to elevate junior golf across Canada and beyond.

We / I was so proud of each and every player on Team Canada. Together, you made history at St. Andrews, inspiring the next generation of Canadian junior golfers to dream even bigger.

I have made new friends in Canada and internationally, and I look forward to returning to Scotland in 2027 for a potential three-peat. We anticipate a strong Canadian team, including some potential returning players…

With admiration, gratitude, and pride,

Shayne Dysart, Director of Operations, CJGA Coach, Team Canada

The Canadian Junior Golf Association (CJGA) is proud to announce a new national partnership with Tapinn, an innovative golf technology platform that is transforming the way golfers connect with coaches and improve their games.

Tapinn is the technology platform powering the PGA of Canada’s On-Demand Lessons App, which is scheduled to launch nationally the first week in July, providing golfers across the country with trusted access to professional instruction through a modern digital experience.

This partnership represents an exciting step forward in junior golf development, providing CJGA members and families with convenient access to professional golf instruction through Tapinn’s on-demand coaching platform. Through Tapinn, golfers can receive personalized coaching, swing analysis, and virtual lessons from verified PGA of Canada professionals, anytime and anywhere (tapinn.io).

A cornerstone of the partnership is a shared commitment to athlete safety and coaching excellence. Every PGA of Canada professional on the Tapinn platform is verified and Safe Sport certified, ensuring junior golfers receive instruction from trusted professionals who meet the highest standards of coaching, professionalism, and player protection.

“One of the greatest challenges for many junior golfers and their families has been access to quality coaching when and where they need it,” said Shayne Dysart, Director of Operations and PGA of Canada Member for the Canadian Junior Golf Association. “Through this partnership with Tapinn, our members gain access to verified PGA of Canada professionals who can provide expert instruction and mentorship on demand. Just as importantly, families can feel confident knowing their children are learning in a safe, supportive, and professional environment.”

By removing geographic barriers and leveraging technology, Tapinn makes high-quality golf instruction more accessible than ever before. The partnership aligns closely with the CJGA’s mission of helping young golfers develop their skills, pursue their goals, and reach their full potential both on and off the golf course.

CJGA members will benefit from access to Tapinn’s coaching network, instructional resources, player development tools, and future collaborative initiatives designed to support golfers at every stage of their development.

Together, the CJGA and Tapinn are helping shape the future of golf instruction by combining innovative technology with trusted coaching, creating new opportunities for junior golfers across Canada to learn, improve, and succeed.

This is the first announcements of many regarding this wonderful opportunity for Players and PGA members to access this incredible (VLP) platform. STAY TUNED FOR MORE UPDATES.

About the Canadian Junior Golf Association:

The Canadian Junior Golf Association is Canada’s leading national junior golf Association, national tour and player development organization, conducting more than 100 tournaments annually and helping thousands of young golfers pursue competitive, educational, and professional opportunities through the game of golf.

About Tapinn:

Tapinn is an on-demand golf instruction platform that connects golfers with verified PGA of Canada professionals for virtual lessons, swing analysis, and personalized coaching. As the technology provider behind the PGA of Canada’s Virtual Lesson Platform (VLP), Tapinn is helping modernize golf instruction while making professional coaching more accessible, convenient, and trusted for golfers of all ages and skill levels.

Media Contact:

Shayne Dysart, Director of Operations & Communications, Canadian Junior Golf Association

mailto:communications@cjga.com

Developed over the past 18 months, the CCP was created as an initial “101” caddying program in response to a growing need within the golf industry for structured, professional caddie education. As the game continues to evolve, the importance of knowledgeable, prepared, and confident caddies has never been greater—whether they are supporting junior golfers, elite amateurs, or recreational players. This initial program was designed to support CJGA junior golfers by better educating players and caddies alike, ultimately improving the overall experience and player outcomes at all levels of the game. This program also serves as a point of departure, with future high-level programs to come, all of which will be integrated into the Humber Polytechnic PGM Program moving forward. In order to ensure a higher standard of caddying CJGA events, individuals who want to caddy are required to complete this course.

This innovative program is designed to benefit a wide range of participants, including junior golfers seeking to deepen their understanding of the game, aspiring caddies looking to enter the profession, and individuals currently working at clubs who want to elevate their skills and professionalism. The CCP also provides significant value to golf facilities, coaches, and tournament operators and golf Associations by ensuring a higher standard of on-course support and player experience. The CJGA strongly recommends that all parents, players, and player coaches participate in the program to ensure a consistent and elevated standard of knowledge and support across all levels of competition.

Through a dynamic and accessible curriculum, the CCP offers participants a comprehensive foundation in:

• Course management and strategy

• Rules of golf and etiquette

• Player support and communication

• Equipment knowledge and preparation

• Professionalism and conduct on and off the course

The program has been developed in close collaboration with the Professional Golf Management (PGM) Program at Humber Polytechnic, whose expertise in golf education and industry training has been instrumental in shaping the curriculum and delivery model.

“The launch of the Certified Caddie Program represents a major milestone for the CJGA and the Canadian golf community,” said Shayne Dysart, Director of Operations for the CJGA. “This program has been a year and a half in the making, and it is the result of collaboration, passion, and a shared vision to enhance the game at every level. We extend our sincere thanks to the team at Humber Polytechnic, our industry partners, PGA professionals, and all those who contributed their time and expertise to support to this program’s development and ultimately bring the CCP program to life. The CCP will play a vital role in developing knowledgeable, confident caddies in Canada and Internationally who can truly impact a player’s experience and performance.

This program could be the beginning of your amateur or professional caddy career.”

“At the CJGA, our mission has always been to lead, innovate, and provide meaningful development opportunities for young golfers across Canada,” said Earl Fritz, CEO of the CJGA. “The Certified Caddie Program is a natural extension of that mission—setting a new national benchmark for education, professionalism, and on-course support. By investing in the development of caddies, we are directly investing in the experience, growth, and success of our players. This program is not only a first for Canada, but a foundational step toward shaping the future of golf development at every level.”

Humber Polytechnic’s PGM program played a critical role as the CJGA’s educational partner, ensuring that the CCP aligns with industry standards and delivers meaningful, real-world value.

“This program is incredibly meaningful for the golf industry,” said Andrew Vento, Director of the PGM Program at Humber Polytechnic. “Caddies are an integral part of the game, yet formal training opportunities have been limited. The CCP bridges that gap by providing structured, high-quality education that will benefit golf clubs, professionals, Caddy masters, associations, and tours worldwide. We are proud to partner with the CJGA on an initiative that strengthens the foundation of the sport and creates new pathways for development and professionalism within the industry.”

The Certified Caddie Program is now open for registration through the CJGA’s official website, offering participants immediate access to course materials and certification pathways administered in partnership with Humber Polytechnic.

Learn more at cjga.com/certified-caddie-program/.

This strategic partnership reflects a shared vision between the CJGA and Mr. Kirkland: to invest not only in the future of junior golf, but in the life skills, discipline, and character that the game instills in young athletes.

As part of this collaboration, the CJGA will host the Graeme R. Kirkland Extraordinary Year-End Shotgun, a premier fundraising event scheduled for August 29, 2026, at the renowned Royal Niagara Golf Club. The event will bring together corporate leaders, golf enthusiasts, alumni, and supporters of junior golf for a day of championship-caliber play, networking, and philanthropy.

Proceeds from the event will directly support CJGA initiatives, including:

• National junior tournament operations
• Player development programs
• International competition opportunities
• Scholarships and financial assistance for young athletes

“Graeme’s commitment to excellence and long-term investment aligns perfectly with our mission,” said CEO Earl Fritz. “This partnership goes beyond sponsorship—it represents a meaningful investment in the next generation of Canadian golfers and leaders.”

“On behalf of the Canadian Junior Golf Association, we are excited to welcome Graeme R. Kirkland as our Official Investment Partner for the 2026 season,” said Shayne Dysart, Director of Operations, CJGA. “This partnership represents far more than financial support—it is a shared commitment to investing in the long-term growth, character development, and future success of junior golfers across Canada. The Year-End Shotgun at Royal Niagara is a significant milestone for our organization, and we are confident it will become a flagship event that not only raises critical funds, but also unites our community of players, alumni, partners, and supporters in a meaningful way. We look forward to building something truly impactful together that will benefit generations of young athletes.”

Toronto, ON – January 2026 — The Canadian Junior Golf Association (CJGA) is proud to officially announce its 2026 CJGA National Tournament Schedule, highlighting a comprehensive season of competition alongside significant enhancements to player development, education, and international partnerships.

The 2026 schedule will feature over 100 tournaments nationwide, including regional events, CJGA Majors, national championships, invitational competitions, and international events. Hosted at many of Canada’s premier golf facilities, the CJGA continues to deliver one of the most robust junior golf platforms in North America.

“Our 2026 National Schedule represents more than just competition — it reflects our long-term vision for junior golf development,” said Earl Fritz, Founder and CEO of the CJGA. “We are continuing to expand meaningful pathways for our athletes through strong national and international partnerships, while ensuring families, coaches, and players have the support they need at every stage of development.”

Expanded National & International Partnerships

As part of its 2026 strategy, the CJGA is actively expanding partnerships both nationally and internationally to better support NCAA-bound and post-secondary-focused athletes. These partnerships are designed to enhance competitive opportunities, increase international exposure, and strengthen recruitment pathways for Canadian junior golfers pursuing collegiate golf in the United States and beyond.

The CJGA’s growing international footprint includes collaborative relationships across North America, the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia, reinforcing the Association’s commitment to providing global opportunities for elite junior players.

Enhanced Programs for Coaches and Parents

In addition to competitive expansion, the CJGA is introducing enhanced education and support programs for coaches and parents. These initiatives are designed to better equip support teams with the tools, knowledge, and resources required to guide junior golfers through competitive development, recruitment processes, and long-term athletic planning.

“Our role extends well beyond running tournaments,” said Shayne Dysart, Director of Operations and Communications for the CJGA. “In 2026, we are placing an even greater emphasis on education, communication, and structured support for coaches and parents, ensuring that players at all levels have a clear, informed pathway forward.”

2026 Season Highlights Include:

• Over 100 CJGA tournaments nationwide
• CJGA Majors, National & Regional Championships
• International events and partnerships and exemptions supporting global competition
• Enhanced NCAA and post-secondary pathways
• Educational initiatives for players, caddies, coaches and parents
• Developmental events supporting players at every stage of growth

The CJGA continues to serve as a proven pathway for junior golfers advancing to NCAA programs, Canadian and international universities, national teams, and professional tours.

Registration for 2026 CJGA events will open in phases, with full tournament details, eligibility criteria, and exemptions available through the CJGA membership portal.

This exciting partnership will grant the CJGA 70 annual player exemptions—for both boys and girls—beginning in 2026. Even more exciting, for the balance of the 2025 season, the CJGA will be allotting 60 exemptions to deserving junior golfers through its national competitive series to qualify for this world-class event in 2026. 

This relationship was initiated by Luiz Martins, PGA of Brazil and PGA of Canada member, who brought this unique opportunity to the CJGA. Luiz, a long-time friend of the CJGA and one of its International Junior Golf Ambassadors, continues to be a driving force in expanding global opportunities for Canadian junior golfers. 

Taking place from July 21–23, 2026, at the 5-star Lough Erne Resort—former home of Rory McIlroy as its touring professional and host of the G8 World Leaders Summit—the Championship will welcome 250 junior champions from over 40 countries. Endorsed by golf legend Gary Player, this elite tournament represents the pinnacle of international junior competition. 

“We are thrilled and honoured to join forces with the ‘Champion of Champions’ World Championship,” said Shayne Dysart, Director of Operations, and Earl Fritz, CEO for the CJGA. “We’re especially grateful to Luiz Martins for opening this door and helping Canadian juniors gain access to one of the most prestigious stages in junior golf. Awarding 60 exemptions for the rest of 2025 adds immediate excitement and momentum heading into 2026.” 

This international partnership builds on the CJGA’s expanding global network, which includes affiliations with the Mexico Junior Golf Association, PGA of Brazil, Bermuda Golf Association, Jamaica PGA/Junior Golf Association, San Diego Junior Golf Association (Junior Worlds), Fife Golf of Scotland, and the Junior Girls America Cup – Team Alberta/British Columbia. 

“We’re delighted to welcome the CJGA on board as an official worldwide qualifying partner,” said Michael Gallagher, Tournament Director of the Champion of Champions. “Canada continues to produce outstanding young golfers, and this partnership ensures they now have a direct pathway to one of the most prestigious stages in global junior golf.” 

For CJGA players, this isn’t just a tournament—it’s an international stage to compete, grow, and connect with elite junior golfers from around the world. 

For more information, please visit: https://linktr.ee/championofchampions www.cjga.com 

Media Contact:

Shayne Dysart, Director of Operations & Communications, Canadian Junior Golf Association

shayne.dysart@cjga.com 

About the CJGA: The Canadian Junior Golf Association is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing world-class competition and development opportunities for junior golfers across Canada. The CJGA supports young athletes in achieving their personal and athletic goals through a multi-stage 

Luiz Martins, Honorary President of the Brazilian PGA and former ten-term President of the PGA of Brazil, has been a driving force behind this monumental relationship. As the founder of the LMP Pro Junior Tour in Brazil, Martins has dedicated his career to fostering the development of young golfers, and this partnership will further his mission on an international scale. The CJGA is also pleased to announce that Luiz Martins will serve as an “International Ambassador to the CJGA,” further strengthening the ties between the two organizations.

“We are incredibly pleased to establish this partnership with the CJGA,” said Luiz Martins. “This collaboration will provide Brazilian junior and professional golfers with unmatched access to international competition, player exemptions, team travel opportunities, and year-round training programs.”

The CJGA and the Brazilian PGA, along with the South American Confederation of Golf Professionals, will work together to create a comprehensive exchange program that includes:

• International competitions and player exemptions.
• Joint team travel initiatives for major events.
• Winter and summer training programs for athletes.
• Shared educational and development resources for coaches and players.
• Partnership in promoting the growth of junior golf in both Canada and Brazil.

This partnership with Brazil further expands the CJGA’s global footprint. The CJGA already maintains strong relationships with golf associations in Bermuda, Mexico, Scotland, and the United States, and is in active discussions with Jamaica, Asian associations, and others – with more exciting announcements to come soon.

“This partnership is a testament to our commitment to expanding the horizons of junior golf,” said Shayne Dysart, Director of Operations and Communications for the CJGA. “We are excited about the incredible opportunities this will create for our athletes, coaches, and partners.”

The Canadian Junior Golf Association remains dedicated to creating world-class opportunities for young athletes, and this partnership with the Brazilian PGA and the South American Confederation of Golf Professionals is a significant milestone in that mission.

For more information, please contact: Shayne Dysart Director of Operations and Communications Canadian Junior Golf Association (CJGA) shayne.dysart@cjga.com