Shelly Stouffer: Lifelong Advocate for Sport

Women’s History Month invites us to reflect on the incredible contributions of women in sport. It’s a time to honour the trailblazers who’ve not only shaped their disciplines, but who also inspire others through their resilience and leadership.

This month, we’re proud to share the story of talented and passionate golfer, Shelly Stouffer, whose grit and passion for golf continues to inspire other women in the golf community.

From an early age, Shelly has been deeply involved in sports, appreciating the mental, physical, and community-building benefits they offer.

Growing up she played all sorts of sports, “I love competing and loved being a part of teams in school sports,” she says. However, golf challenged her in ways no other sport did, and she loved it.

“Golf is a very challenging sport and there is always room for improvement in every aspect of the game,” she adds.

Golf has both challenged and inspired her throughout her life. She has learned that if she has a bad round or tournament, there will be another round the next day or another tournament around the corner. “It has taught me to overcome challenges by being mentally strong,” she shares.

Jocelyn Bourassa, a key mentor of Shelly’s through her golf career, was also part of the reason why she kept up with golf and started competing. “Jocelyne was was influential in starting the Canadian Women’s Golf Tour in the ‘90s, and from playing in those events I was able to get a taste of playing LPGA events and to play golf at the highest level.”

Now in her 50s, Shelly has become a mentor herself, especially to women who once played golf, took a break, and are now returning to the sport. “I hope to inspire these women to pick up their clubs again, to get back into the game, and to even compete in tournaments, no matter their age,” she says. “Golf offers incredible opportunities, from traveling to beautiful locations to making lifelong friendships.”

Shelly has had many notable and memorable moments in her golfing career, but the one that topped it was in 2022 when she won the US Senior Women’s Amateur in Alaska with her son, Brett, caddying for her.

Looking ahead, she would like to win the R & A British Senior Amateur and US Senior Women’s Amateur again.

In the meantime, Shelly remains dedicated to offering golf fitness classes in her community, helping participants stay active and passionate about the game for years to come.