b'BRITISH COLUMBIA GOLFHello fromCollege brought me back to the West Coast, where I pursued both golf and academics at Simon Fraser University. As a member of the varsity golf team, I had the privilege (and to) Britishof playing some of the best courses in Vancouvers Lower Mainland and competing at top tracks throughout Washington, Columbia Golf Oregon, Montana, and Idaho. During this time, I began to lay down roots in the Pacific Northwest and build lasting connections with the players I competed with and the people I A s the new CEO of British Columbia Golf,played alongside.Im pleased to have the opportunityDuring the summers, I worked at various golf courses, to introduce myself to the regions golftaking on every role from guest services, golf shop, restaurant community.work, and assisting with golf schools. Those years offered My connection to the game goes backa different kind of education: early mornings, long hours, to riding my bike to Top O the Hill Golfand learning to greet every guest with a smile. This time Course in Sylvan Lake, Alberta. That littledeepened my appreciation for the people who make our golf MATTHEWnine-hole par-3 course planted the seedsexperiences possible.STEINBACHChief Executive Officer for what would become a lifelong journeyWhile I was a strong competitor, I knew a professional British Columbia Golf filled with friendships, travel, competition,playing career wasnt in the cards. After graduation, I joined and ultimately a career in golf. General Mills, progressing through several roles across My first experience with golf on theWestern Canada over eight years. During this time, my West Coast came at age 16, when my dad and I spent tworelationship with golf evolved. I wasnt playing regularly and weeks during spring break driving from Vancouver to Sandidnt join a club, but I invested my vacation time and savings Francisco. We played courses along the I-5 corridor andinto extraordinary experiences. Highway 101. The dramatic mountain-to-sea landscapes, theThis included annual trips to Bandon Dunes, often timed majestic old-growth cedars, the lush green terrain, and the softwith the U.S. Thanksgiving shoulder season; and unforgettable spring conditions (which encouraged a much higher ball flight!)pilgrimages to Scotland, including the 2009 Open at Turnberry, captured my imagination and introduced me to the beauty ofwhere I watched Tom Watson miss that little seven-footer from Pacific Northwest golf. the grandstand on 18; and the 2014 Ryder Cup, where Europe Steinbach has made numerous trips to Scotland, and eventually earned his masters degree at the University of Stirling in Scotland, with his dissertation exploring the role of golfs governing bodies in fostering societal well-being.2 BRITISH COLUMBIA GOLF| SEPT 2025'