FERGUS – A local golf tournament is helping raise awareness and support for youth mental health.
The ninth annual Cody Shepperd Memorial Golf Tournament was held September 12 at Wildwinds Golf Links, bringing together family, friends, community members, sponsors and golfers.
The event raised $25,000 for Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario Wellington-Guelph’s Fergus Hub, which provides free and accessible mental health, wellness and substance-use support for young people.
The tournament was created in memory of Cody Shepperd, who died by suicide in 2017 at the age of 20.
“The funds raised through this tournament will help ensure local youth have access to the support they need, when they need it,” said Jeff Hoffman, Executive Director of YWHO WG. “We are deeply grateful to the Shepperd family, tournament organizers, sponsors, volunteers, and participants who continue to turn their loss into hope for young people across our community.”
Cody’s journey with mental health challenges began on April 3, 2016, when he was admitted to hospital with depression and anxiety.
Tragically, Cody died by suicide on October 20, 2017. Following his struggles, Cody believed that the concussions he sustained through athletics may have contributed to his mental health challenges, inspiring the creation of the Cody Shepperd Project.
“Cody was an exceptional athlete, a dedicated friend, a loving son and brother, and someone who left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him,” said Paul Shepperd, Cody’s father. “Through this tournament, we hope to continue sharing his story, raising awareness, and supporting young people in our community.”
Cody excelled in wrestling, lacrosse, snowboarding, and golf. By the age of 18, he had earned numerous accolades, including two OFSAA silver medals, a national silver medal, a Winter Games gold medal, and both provincial gold and bronze medals. Cody proudly represented Team Canada at the Pan American Championships in Colombia when he was just 15 years old. He received Rookie of the Year honours in Grade 9 and graduated in Grade 12 with MDP recognition.
Organizers say the tournament has become more than an annual sporting event, helping continue conversations about mental health while connecting young people with resources and support.
