Meet the Pros
Behind every great round is someone who makes the game feel easier to step into. Our team of PGA professionals brings experience, passion, and a genuine commitment to helping you enjoy golf at every level. Whether you’re picking up a club for the first time or refining your game, you’re in the right hands at D’Arcy Ranch
“In golf, as in life, it’s the people you meet along the way that matter most.”
— Jack Nicklaus
Joel Monk
Head Teaching Professional | PGA of Canada
With over 25 years in the game, Joel Monk brings a steady, experienced presence to D’Arcy Ranch—grounded in both high-level competition and a genuine passion for teaching.
Joel’s path in golf started early, picking up a club at age 10 and growing up at Cottonwood Golf & Country Club. After completing the Professional Golf Management Program at Lethbridge College, he began his career at Priddis Greens and went on to work at some of Alberta’s most respected clubs, including Canyon Meadows, Heritage Pointe, and Sirocco.
Over the years, Joel has held leadership roles as Head Professional and Director of Golf, while also competing at a high level—representing Team Alberta twice at the Canadian Club Professional Championship and playing in the 2007 ATB Financial Classic on the Canadian Tour.
But what sets Joel apart isn’t just experience—it’s how he sees the game.
He believes golf is for everyone.
Whether it’s a first swing or fine-tuning a competitive edge, Joel is known for helping players feel comfortable, confident, and capable—without pressure. His approach is simple: meet people where they are, and help them enjoy the game for what it is.
Off the course, Joel’s proudest role is being a father to his two boys, who are already following in his athletic footsteps.
Amy Popkes
Associate Golf Professional
Amy Popkes, joins Darcy Ranch in her first season at the club.
Having started golf at the age of 3, Amy developed a deep passion for the game early on and began working in the golf industry at a young age in her hometown of Fort St. John.
After moving to Calgary in 2013, she continued to build her experience in the industry, working at Carnmoney Golf Club and Silver Springs Golf & Country Club. In 2020, she earned her professional status, further committing to her career in golf.
Amy has been heavily involved with the PGA of Alberta, serving on the Assistants’ Board for the past three years and contributing to multiple committees. She is also a member of the Association of Golf Merchandisers and is proud to have been named a finalist for the PGA of Alberta Class A Professional of the Year Award for the past three years.
A strong advocate for women’s golf, Amy is passionate about creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all players. She enjoys working with golfers of all skill levels, with a focus on building confidence, developing fundamentals, and fostering a lifelong love for the game.
Sean Butcher
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Gordon Brayton
Teaching Professional | PGA of Canada
A member of the PGA of Canada since 1982, Gordon Brayton brings more than four decades of experience—and over 5,500 students taught—to D’Arcy Ranch.
Golf has always been part of Gordon’s life. He grew up at Earl Grey Golf Club in Calgary, where early days on the range turned into something more—shagging balls for legends like Moe Norman and caddying for touring professionals. That foundation shaped not just his career, but his lifelong respect for the game.
Since turning professional, Gordon’s journey has taken him across Canada and beyond, with leadership roles as Head Professional and General Manager, and teaching stops in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, China, and Arizona. No matter where he’s been, his focus has stayed the same: helping people improve through strong fundamentals, smart practice, and a simple approach to the game.
Gordon believes golf doesn’t need to be complicated.
Keep it fun. Keep it simple. Keep it in play.
He takes pride in working with players of all levels—especially juniors—and in seeing both his students and former staff grow in the game and beyond.
Off the course, Gordon is most proud of his family, including his children and granddaughter, and remains deeply grateful for a career that has allowed him to do what he loves every day.
As he puts it, the view from his office is still the first tee—and it hasn’t gotten old.
Ready to Learn?
Whether you’re just getting started or looking to fine-tune a few things, we’ll meet you where you’re at. No pressure, no ego—just good coaching that actually makes sense and helps you feel more confident each time you play. Book a one-on-one or come out with a few friends and make it something you’ll enjoy, not overthink.
Greg Lancaster
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