As the fall season is upon us, preparations are underway for the closing of golf courses across the province. I would like to wish all of you and your teams a successful close to the season and hope you are able to enjoy some well-deserved time with family and friends in the months ahead.

Following the successful OGSA Championship in Muskoka in September, the Board extends its sincere thanks to participants, host facilities, and OGSA staff for their contributions to another outstanding event. A special thank you goes to our industry partners for their continued investment in the championship and in the association. Their support plays a critical role in the event's success and the opportunities it creates for members. As positive feedback continues to be received from this year's championship, we are already looking forward to building on its success in 2027.

The OGSA was represented at the recent Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) Chapter Delegates Meeting held in early October. The meeting provided an opportunity to receive updates on GCSAA initiatives, meet with candidates seeking election to the 2027 GCSAA Board of Directors, and ensure that the interests of Ontario members were represented throughout the process.

In January, the OGSA will attend the GCSAA AGM to represent OGSA/GCSAA members. The OGSA is able to carry the votes of GCSAA members who assign their voting authority to the association, providing Ontario with a stronger voice in GCSAA governance. We continue to work closely with the Northeast Region and delegates from across the United States to support the continued advancement of the association nationally while keeping the needs and priorities of our region in mind.

While much of our recent work has focused on a successful season of networking opportunities, and industry recognition, the OGSA Board has also been focused on the future of the association. Our efforts over the past several months have centered on governance, strategic planning, and identifying opportunities that will strengthen the value we provide to members.

By reviewing policies, formalizing governance practices, and developing strategies to support membership growth and engagement, we are laying the groundwork for a stronger, more resilient organization. This work will help ensure the OGSA continues to evolve alongside our profession and remains a trusted resource and advocate for members in the years ahead.

While planning for the future, this year has also provided an opportunity to reflect on the strength and history of the organizations that support our profession. As the year comes to a close, we are proud to recognize the Canadian Golf Superintendents Association (CGSA) as it celebrates 60 years of service to golf course management professionals across Canada, while our colleagues at the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America mark their 100th anniversary. These achievements remind us of the value of strong associations and the important role they play in advancing our profession.

As this will be my final message as President of the OGSA, I would like to express what an honour it has been to represent this association, our industry, and the many colleagues and friends who make it so special. Serving on the Board has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career, and I encourage any member who is passionate about our profession to consider becoming involved. Whether through committee work, volunteering, or Board service, your contributions help shape the future of our association and our industry.

I would also like to extend a special thank you to Ian McQueen for his extraordinary dedication to the OGSA over the past decade. Ian graciously agreed to provide one additional year of service, and his guidance, wisdom, and steady leadership have been invaluable to both the Board and the association. His contributions have helped shape the OGSA into the organization it is today, and while his presence around the Board table will be missed, his impact will be felt for many years to come.

Finally, thank you to all of our members, volunteers, industry partners, and staff for your continued support, participation, and commitment to the OGSA. Together, we lay the groundwork for those who will lead it in years to come.

It has been my privilege to serve.

Sincerely,