Neil Verwey
PGA of Ontario Hall of Fame Class of 2026
Born: January 7, 1940 in Kemptville, Ontario
Neil Verwey’s career as a PGA Professional spans more than six decades and reflects a lifelong commitment to the game of golf, the profession, and the development of those who followed in his footsteps.
Neil began his professional career as an Assistant Professional in 1961 under John Henrick at Highland Country Club. Thames Valley Golf Club, 1962-63 under John Moffat and 1964-66 London Hunt Country Club under Walter Cunningham. These gentlemen shaped Neil's approach to being a Head Professional.
He accepted his first Head Professional position at Maitland Golf Club in 1967. In 1969, he became Head Professional at Northridge Golf Course, where he remained until 1981. In 1982, Neil began a defining chapter of his career as Head Professional at St. George’s Golf and Country Club, a position he held until his retirement in 2004.
Throughout his career, Neil continually expanded the traditional role of the Golf Professional. Recognizing the importance of strong business management, he pursued his Certified Management Accountant designation, graduating in 1974 and earning what would become his CPA-CMA designation. This education proved invaluable throughout his career as an owner and operator of his Golf Shops.
During Neil’s 23 years at St. George’s, the Club hosted several major Professional Championships, including the 1982 Peter Jackson Classic, 1984 du Maurier Classic and 1997 du Maurier Champions. Neil worked closely with tournament committees, sponsors and Professional Golf Organizations while overseeing merchandise operations for each Championship.
Teaching and player development were also important parts of Neil’s career. He embraced evolving instructional technology and developed programs for men, women and juniors while encouraging his Assistant Professionals to teach and strengthen their skills as Golf Professionals.
Perhaps one of Neil’s most enduring contributions has been his mentorship of fellow PGA Professionals. Assistants who worked under his leadership went on to become Head Professionals and/or General Managers including Rob McDannold, Wayne Middaugh, Ian Webb, Adrian Viney, Tim Moore, and Adam Cherry to name a few.
Neil also gave extensively of his time to the PGA of Ontario. From approximately 1985 to 1992, he served on the PGA of Ontario Board as Revenue Development Chairman, helping oversee the growth of the Fall Merchandise Show into an important event for the Association and its membership. His service continued long after retirement, serving on the PGA of Ontario Hall of Fame Committee from 2019 to 2025 and helping establish criteria for the program and review future inductees.
Neil’s commitment to young Professionals was further demonstrated through his involvement with the Brian Shaw Fund at St. George’s. Through an annual Assistants Pro-Am held from 1989 to 2013, more than $100,000 was awarded to 28 deserving men and women.
A successful competitive player, Neil’s accomplishments included a tenth-place finish at the 1980 Canadian PGA Championship and several Ontario victories. His contributions to the profession were recognized when he was named the 1999 PGA of Ontario Professional of the Year. Upon his retirement, St. George’s granted Neil an Honorary Membership and established the annual Verwey Cup in recognition of his service. In 2005, the PGA of Canada named him a Life Member.
Neil Verwey’s career has been defined by service, professionalism, mentorship and a commitment to leaving the game and profession stronger than he found them. His induction into the PGA of Ontario Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2026 recognizes a career that has had a lasting impact on his Clubs, colleagues and the Association.