Inaugural Indigenous Interclub brings new tradition to Southwestern Ontario
Golf Ontario
The inaugural Indigenous Interclub took place on Sunday, May 24, at Indian Hills Golf Club in Lambton Shores, marking the beginning of what organizers hope will become a lasting tradition in Southwestern Ontario
The event was coordinated by Rob Mason and Amanda Cookson, Golf Ontario’s Regional Managers for Southwestern Ontario, and brought together players and communities in a celebration of Indigenous culture, connection, and the game of golf.
Southwestern Ontario is one of the most culturally rich regions in the province, home to more than 20 Indigenous communities. Many golf courses in the area sit on or beside land stewarded by Indigenous peoples for generations. As Amanda explains, “Launching this event now felt like the right moment to acknowledge that connection, celebrate it, and create a space where golf can bring communities together in a meaningful way.”
This year’s inaugural event included three serviced member facilities: Monthill, Indian Hills, and Wardsville Golf Club.Team Wardsville captured the inaugural title after winning both matches on the day.
Rather than following the familiar path of trophies and plaques, Rob and Amanda chose to introduce a tradition that carries deeper cultural meaning by commissioning a local Indigenous artist to create an annual print awarded to the winning team.
“Rob Mason and I wanted this to be a true celebration of how golf can bring not only people but entire communities together,” Amanda says. “Choosing an Indigenous art print allowed us to honour that intention in a more meaningful way than a traditional trophy ever could.”
The shift away from a standard trophy really reflects what the interclub is meant to be. It’s not just a competition, it’s a way to focus on Indigenous voices, bring cultural representation into the event, and start a tradition that can grow each year.
About the Artwork
This year’s artwork was created by Mike Cywink, an Anishinaabe muralist and storyteller. His work has helped reshape Indigenous representation across Western and London, and he is also a member and passionate golfer at FireRock Golf Club in Komoka.
Mike’s piece reflects connection, movement, and community, values that align closely with what this event represents. The artwork reflects the Interclub’s commitment to honouring Indigenous culture, building community, and celebrating sport with purpose.
Looking Ahead
Amanda and Rob support 217 golf facilities across Southwestern Ontario, divided into five subregions. Their long‑term vision is to see each subregion host its own Indigenous Interclub, culminating in a single championship each fall.
As Amanda puts it, “Our role is to help make the connections. The facilities and communities come together, and the golfers lead the experience.”
Their hope is that this event becomes a tradition that grows stronger each year, creating new relationships, opportunities, and stories across the region!
Learn more about Golf Ontario’s ongoing work with Indigenous communities here: Golf Ontario’s Indigenous Golf
