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AAN

Assistants & Associates Network

This program is designed to support assistants and associates through targeted learning, connection, and career-focused conversations.

If you have ideas, topic suggestions, or would like to contribute to the Assistants & Associates Network in any way, we encourage you to reach out to Adam Fritz.

Registration for all AAN events will be available on the PGA of Ontario website, and will remain open to all PGA of Canada members as well as industry professionals across the country.

AAN REPRESENTATIVES

AAN Lead:
Adam Fritz
Class “A” Professional
Whistle Bear Golf Club
adamfritzgolf@gmail.com

Representative:
Spencer Boston
Class "A" Associate Professional
Cutten Fields
sboston@cuttenfields.com

  
Representative:

Kieran Harris
Class “A” Teaching Professional
Feel Good Golf Academy
kieran@feelgoodgolf.ca

Representative:
Simon Lycklama
Class “A” Head Professional
Cutten Fields
slycklama@cuttenfields.com

  

 

Past AAN Offerings

MARCH
Click here for recording

Assistants and Associates Network (AAN) - Working Abroad

March 12, 2026 

Session Focus: This session will provide insight into the professional and personal considerations of working in another province or taking a job out-of-country. Topics will include navigating certification requirements, employment expectations, cultural differences, and adapting to new environments, offering valuable perspective for those considering opportunities that would require relocating.

Speakers:

  • Alex Catherwood, Head Professional, Manitou Ridge
  • Sheldon Friske - Head Professional, Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo
  • Tayler Kimura, Director of Instruction, Bali Island Golf Academy
  • Jake Torrieri, Apprentice Professional, TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley

FEBRUARY
Click here for recording                                                                                                    

Assistants and Associates Network (AAN) - Building Your Own Teaching Brand

February 12, 2026

Session Focus: Excellent for professionals looking to grow their coaching presence, this session will focus on defining your teaching philosophy and value proposition as an instructor. Speakers will discuss how to effectively market yourself through lessons, programs, and digital platforms, and how to build a teaching brand that aligns with your goals and resonates with students.

Speakers:

  •     Chris Dickenson, Ontario Golf Academy at Whistle Bear
  •     Ethan Hunt, Ontario Golf Academy at Whistle Bear

JANUARY

Click here for recording

Assistants and Associates Network (AAN) - The First 100 Days as a Head Professional

January 15, 2026

Session Focus: This session will explore the immediate priorities, expectations, and realities of stepping into a Head Professional role. Panelists will share lessons learned from their first 100 days, including leadership challenges, relationship-building with staff and members, managing expectations, and setting yourself up for long-term success.

Speakers:

  •     Jake Adams, Head Professional @ St. Thomas Golf & Country Club
  •     Matt Bacon, Director of Golf @ Muskoka Bay Club
  •     Brad Brown, Head Professional @ Lora Bay Golf Club
  •     Meghan McDougall, Head Professional @ Wildfire Golf Club