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Instructional Staff | The Academy at The Canadian

Player Development Philosophies

  • Golf skills are not taught. They are learned. A coach facilitates the process of learning and students must participate as much as possible.
  • Instructional programs should be fun, informative and safe.
  • There is no single, correct method of teaching.
  • There is no single, correct method of learning.
  • All people are unique and learn at different rates.
  • Mistakes are a great way to learn. Without them, there is no obvious learning.
  • The learning process is significantly enhanced through effective use of drills, training aids and video.
  • The best players in the world do not consider swing mechanics when they are on the golf course. They merely follow their pre-established routines and react to their desired targets.
  • Golf is the greatest game ever invented!

Our Team of Talented Professionals

 

Dale Trafford, Head Teaching Professional, PGA of Canada Class A      

Dale is a Class ''A'' member of the PGA of Canada with over 45 years experience as a certified coach and instructor in various sports, including 32 years as a golf coach and instructor. Dale has taught at many establishments in the Ottawa area including the Danielle Nadon Golf School, the OAC Winter Golf School, and as the Head Professional of the Cedarhill Golf and Country Club. During his 7 years as a director for the PGA of Canada - Ottawa Zone, Dale served as the Zone's Captain and Junior Golf Chairperson responsible for conducting the local Professional golf tour and the PGA Ottawa Junior Challenge Tour. His passion and dedication for working with junior golfers earned him the 2021 'Junior Leader of the Year Award' for the PGA of Canada - Ottawa. 

Dale: 613.253.3290 ext. 225 | dtrafford@canadiangolfclub.com 

 

Brett Claggett Woods,  Associate teaching Professional, PGA of Canada Class A

Brett is a Class "A" member of the PGA of Canada and has been teaching and fitting in Winnipeg and Ottawa for over 15 years.  Formerly at the OAC, Brett brings with him a skilled approach to swing improvement and development!

In addition to an impressive resume of teaching experience Brett stands out with his qualifications including:

Certified SuperSpeed Level 2 InstructorSuperSpeed Golf
BodiTrak Golf Ground Course Mechanics Certified Instructor

 

Aidan Gregoire,  Assistant teaching Professional, PGA of Canada

Aidan started his career in golf at the Canadian Golf and Country Club in spring 2022 and became a member of PGA of Canada in Spring of 2023. Since then he has completed his level 1 PGA instructor course, has run a variety of clinics and camps, had an indoor academy while mainting his GPA at the Univesity of Ottawa and has grown his private book of students over the course of his career.

Aidan was a finalist for the 2024 PGA Ottawa Zone Apprentice of the year award.

 

 

Our programs

The Academy programs are tailored to improve the game of every player type.  We offer...

  • Ongoing Coaching
  • Junior Clinics and Camps
  • Ladies Group Clinics
  • Corporate Clinics and Team-Building
  • Individual and Semi-private Lessons
  • Private and Semi-Private Lesson Packages

Need something beyond our current offerings - we are happy to work with you to satisfy your need!

Student - Instructor Relationship

At The Canadian golf Academy, we understand that not all students are the same. People learn differently, some like to use visual cues or assistance, others prefer explanations, and some prefer a combination of the two.  Our instructors believe in the importance of truly understanding the learning techniques of every student - the better we understand our student, their tendencies and their goals - the better and more productive each learning session can be.  

We also understand that there are a number of learning environments, including private, semi-private and group or clinic.  We offer a variety of programs to fit any need, from junior to senior, from private to large groups - we can accommodate any request. 

Our facility

The Canadian boasts the finest practice facility in Eastern Ontario.  Our driving range includes a one acre large grass tee deck, and 30 matted hitting stations to fit any requirement.  Our range has large target greens at a variety of distances - and our range is more than long enough to accommodate drives up to 340 yards.  We have two large practice green - a putting green with a variety of undulations to practice any putt, and a chipping green contoured to practice chips from a variety of lies and situations. We also have a large bunker complex where students can practice short or long bunker shots and enhance the quality of their sand play.  Our practice facility is perfectly designed to enhance every aspect of our game.  

Technology

To enhance your learning experience, we offer Trackman Technology!

The ball’s entire trajectory after it has been launched is tracked, which means you have exceptionally comprehensive ball measurement information instantly available, helping you to improve your golf swing.