After 19 years with the organization Jeff held leadership roles and contributed to the organization’s success in many broad areas. His significant focus towards high performance, long-term player development; grassroots and juniors; women’s programing; and safe sport, changed Golf Canada’s position on the global stage. The organization’s sport and high-performance activities have drawn accolades from Canadian and international partners alike.
The opportunity for Jeff to pursue his next challenge and for Golf Canada to bring in a new voice to shape these priorities for continued growth and success were of paramount importance.
Jeff joined Golf Canada in 2005 as the Executive Director of the former Canadian Ladies Golf Association. He played a key role in the CLGA’s amalgamation with Golf Canada and the eventual recognition of Golf Canada by the Federal Government as the National Sport Federation. He spearheaded the Team Canada initiative, worked collaboratively with the PGA of Canada in developing Canada’s Long-Term Player Development guide as well as the National Coach Certification program. Jeff was also a champion for female participation activities such as Golf Fore the Cure and the World Junior Girls Championship. In recent years, Jeff’s role had expanded in recent years to include our broader Golf Services. Jeff’s determination to develop and build a systematic approach to growing golf at the grassroots and high-performance level, including Olympic Games, are just some of the legacies he helped create for Golf Canada.
In the interim, Golf Canada will be reassigning leadership responsibilities within its respective Golf Services and Sport teams and Jeff will be available to assist with the transition. A comprehensive search for a new Chief Sport Officer will begin immediately.
On behalf of the entire organization, we wish Jeff the greatest of success in his next endeavor.
STATEMENT FROM GOLF CANADA CEO LAURENCE APPLEBAUM…
“Jeff Thompson has played a vital role in helping to lead the direction of Golf Canada over the past two decades. His contributions to advance the sport of golf during his tenure have been extremely impactful, especially in the areas of high performance, junior, women’s, coaching, safe sport and long-term player development. Jeff has contributed to many of the organization’s successes and as we continue to drive our sport activities, we are extremely appreciative of his contributions, professionalism, mentorship, and commitment to so many facets of our business.”
