Golf, a sport often described as a blend of leisure and challenge, took on a deeper meaning for Guido Cerasani, a graduate of the Business Administration program at RRC Polytech. For 31 years, it has been more than just a game; it’s been the driving force behind community and family at Shooters Family Golf Centre, a Winnipeg institution.
Shooters Family Golf Centre stands out in Winnipeg as the city’s only privately-owned 18-hole golf course. Open year-round, it offers a comprehensive golfing experience, featuring a par-57 course, a driving range complete with grass tees, an engaging miniature golf course, and a fully stocked pro shop. Strategically located at 2731 Main Street on the city’s edge, Shooters also enhances the visitor experience with a welcoming restaurant and outdoor patio. This diverse business is particularly special to Cerasani because of the strong family involvement woven into its operations. His son, Eason, manages the pro shop, while his daughter, Amy, oversees the restaurant and food services. Both are also proud alumni of RRC Polytech, mirroring their father’s academic path. Sue, Cerasani’s wife, is also integral to the family ethos of the ‘Family Golf Centre’.
Guido Cerasani featured on a billboard in Winnipeg
“We are incredibly fortunate that our children grew up immersed in the golf course environment. It’s truly a family affair in every sense,” Cerasani reflects. “A key condition for them to take on management roles was their graduation from the Business Administration program at RRC Polytech, a milestone they both achieved. It’s this shared foundation that strengthens our family business.” Cerasani himself graduated from the same Business Administration program at RRC Polytech in 1978. This education served as a springboard to a successful 20-year career in banking with TD. Although initially drawn to hands-on work and considering a career as an electrician, his aptitude for early computing and a fortunate turn of events led him to banking. Choosing RRC Polytech provided a practical, career-focused alternative to university, setting the stage for his future success.
“While many people have a clear vision for their future, I was quite uncertain about my path,” Cerasani admits. “Ironically, a typing class in high school became one of the most valuable skills I acquired. Being able to type 65 words per minute proved incredibly useful in the early days of banking, where we handled a lot of our own typing.”
“Despite this, I’ve always enjoyed fixing and building things, tinkering with electronics. This initially led me to think about a more mechanical, hands-on career outside of an office setting. But life often takes unexpected turns, and my path led me in a different direction.”
“Choosing to attend RRC Polytech was the best decision I ever made. I truly believe that without that experience, I wouldn’t have become the businessman I am today.”
Guido Cerasani, RRC Polytech graduate (Business Administration, 1978)
Joining TD Bank just a week after graduation, during a period of high demand for labor, Cerasani progressed through various roles, from management trainee to Branch Manager, Senior Credit Manager, and ultimately Senior Commercial Credit Manager. While he notes that the accounting skills from RRC Polytech weren’t immediately essential in his early roles, they became increasingly valuable as he advanced into commercial credit management.
“When I transitioned into commercial credit, I realized the depth of knowledge I had gained at college,” Cerasani recalls with a laugh. “I was actually revisiting my old textbooks to refresh my memory on key concepts.”
Despite his achievements at TD, Cerasani harbored an entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to work for himself. “I’ve always been a dedicated worker, and I thought, if I’m going to put in this much effort, why not invest it in my own venture?”
“As a corporate banker, I had the opportunity to play golf at prestigious clubs like St. Charles Country Club, Niakwa Country Club, and Glendale Golf Club. Coming from a modest background as an immigrant family, I felt compelled to create a golf course that was accessible to everyone, regardless of membership fees or financial status,” Cerasani explains. “This vision led to the creation of Shooters Family Golf Centre. I acquired land, developed the concept, and the rest, as they say, is history.”
Guido Cerasani with his son Eason and daughter Amy, RRC Polytech alumni
Shooters Family Golf Centre opened its doors to the public in the spring of 1994, initially featuring a driving range and miniature golf. From 1994 to 1998, Cerasani skillfully balanced his banking career at TD with the development of the golf course. The first nine holes opened in September 1998. Over the past three decades, situated near Winnipeg’s perimeter, Cerasani has witnessed the city’s growth and expansion around Shooters Family Golf Centre.
“When we first started, my wife and I could sit in our small office and see the traffic on McPhillips Street,” he reminisces, highlighting the area’s transformation.
Throughout these changes, the community’s passion for golf and the appreciation for an accessible golf course have remained constant. “The sense of community here is incredible,” Cerasani states. “Many of the young people we hire stay with us throughout their college and university years. It’s a wonderful business centered around people. I often say, if you can’t smile at Shooters Family Golf Centre, you probably shouldn’t be here.”
Community extends beyond the golf course for Cerasani, particularly through his enduring connection with RRC Polytech. A committed supporter, he has maintained close ties with his graduating class of 1978. The alumni group gathers regularly, including a recent reunion dinner at the College, where RRC Polytech’s President and CEO, Fred Meier, made a special appearance.
“In the program, you meet so many new and interesting people in a short period. I was lucky to form bonds with some exceptional individuals who remain my closest friends. It’s a unique combination of personalities and shared experiences that creates a tight-knit group, allowing us to reconnect, reminisce, and share stories.”
As Shooters Family Golf Centre has grown, hosting various social and business events and providing catering services, the emphasis on community has remained central to its success, especially as golf’s popularity surged during the pandemic.
“Everyone, including my wife and parents, thought I was a bit crazy when I started this venture,” Cerasani chuckles. “But I took the risk, and ultimately, it has been incredibly rewarding.”
Expanding their community footprint, in May 2014, the Cerasani family acquired the adjacent Northgate Trailer Park, which has since been expanded and rebranded as Rivergrove Mobile Home Estates.
As a proud partner of RRC Polytech, Guido Cerasani was honored as one of 41 outstanding graduates featured in the College’s Polytechnic Proud campaign. Learn more about the campaign here.
Guido Cerasani featured in the Polytechnic Proud campaign with his billboard
Profile by John Gaudes (Creative Communications, 2012)
