Mississauga, ON - The Canadian Golf Superintendents Association (CGSA) is pleased to announce Brian Youell, Master Superintendent at the Uplands Golf Club in Victoria, British Columbia as the CGSA John B. Steel Distinguished Service Award recipient for 2022. 

The CGSA John B. Steel Award commemorates the CGSA's first President, who was also the first superintendent to be inducted into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame. This award is presented annually to an individual, chosen by the CGSA Board of Directors, who has made an outstanding contribution to the advancement of the profession of Golf Course Superintendent. The recipient is presented with an original soap stone carving designed and carved by Bill Fach, retired Master Superintendent, and a past CGSA President.

Brian and his wife Pam will receive an “All-Access” registration to The Canadian Golf Course Management Conference taking place at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver in Vancouver, British Columbia from February 22-24, 2023, 4 nights’ accommodation and transportation costs and he will be presented with the prestigious John B. Steel Award on Wednesday, February 22nd during the Awards Ceremony.

Brian has been a CGSA member since 1993 and holds the association’s Master Superintendent (MS) designation since 2002. He is in his 42nd year at Uplands Golf Course which was established in 1922 and just celebrated their 100 Years on December 1st. His career in the industry spans almost 45 years. Youell was the CGSA/Rain Bird Environmental Achievement Award winner in 2017, the 2016 CGSA/Toro Gordon Witteveen winner, sponsored by Toro and the CGSA Superintendent of the Year Award winner in 2012. He has hosted several PGA TOUR Canada events over the years and was noted as one of the best courses on tour.

“Brian Youell is one of the most devoted and respected colleagues in the turf industry and a mentor to many. He has overcome many challenges over the years and continues to give back to the industry and his community. He is a dedicated husband and father to two daughters. His successful career and leadership in the industry is truly inspirational. Congratulations on this well-deserved award Brian!”
Pierre Vezeau, AGS, CGSA President

“WOW! What an honour to win such a prestigious award. I know many of the names of the past winners of this award and I feel very fortunate to be associated with these individuals. I would like to thank the CGSA Board of Directors and those involved with my nomination.

I’ve had an amazing 42 years with Uplands Golf Club, and I've been very fortunate to host 20 PGA Tour Canada events. I’m so happy to have chosen this career path and networked with amazing people.”
Brian Youell, MS

On behalf of the Board of Directors, staff and members of the CGSA, please accept our congratulations to Brian on his selection as the 2022 John B. Steel Distinguished Service Award winner. We hope you join us in Vancouver on February 22nd to celebrate with Brian!

Pierre Vezeau, AGS
CGSA President
306-961-5630
pvezeau@citypa.com 

The CGSA represents golf course superintendents, assistant superintendents, equipment technicians, and others involved in golf course management across Canada. CGSA was founded in 1966 and has approximately 1,000 members. Its mission is to promote excellence in golf course management and environmental responsibility through the continuing professional development of its members. For more information, please visit www.golfsupers.com.