ELMSFORD, N.Y. (April 22, 2014) - The Metropolitan Golf Association, one of the nation’s oldest and largest amateur golf associations, is pleased to announce a multi-year strategic partnership with Stamford, Connecticut based clothing company vineyard vines, making vineyard vines the first ever “Official Apparel of the MGA.”  Such designation represents the first such relationship in the 117-year history of the MGA. The partnership with vineyard vines will serve to launch vineyard vines’ new golf apparel line and align the brand with the prestige of the MGA, its championships and charitable Foundation. 

“The MGA has used and trusted vineyard vines’ lifestyle apparel for our needs for a number of years.  When we heard that they were launching a new performance golf line, we started having conversations with them around a more substantial relationship which would align our two brands,” said Jay Mottola, the MGA’s Executive Director. “Their new performance golf line is a great match for our competitors and club members alike. We’re thrilled to partner with vineyard vines and are certain that our players and Member Clubs will benefit from this relationship for many years to come.” 

In its new role as a partner of the MGA, vineyard vines will help outfit MGA staff and volunteer committee members, and will provide apparel at numerous MGA Championships and events, including the 100th Met Open at Winged Foot in 2015. 

“vineyard vines has always been actively involved in the golf community” said Shep Murray, vineyard vines CEO & co-founder. “It is so exciting to establish our relationship with such a prestigious and storied association as the MGA. Our new line of performance golf apparel will serve as a great compliment to the MGA’s dynamic calendar of championships and events.”

In addition to being the exclusive provider of custom clothing for MGA championship participants and MGA Foundation events, vineyard vines will work with the MGA and its member clubs to develop incentive programs for MGA members.  

About vineyard vines:  vineyard vines^®, a company best known for its whimsical neckties and smiling pink whale logo, was founded in 1998 on Martha’s Vineyard when brothers Shep and Ian Murray cut their ties with corporate America to start making ties that represented the Good Life. In addition to signature neckwear, vineyard vines offers a variety of clothing and accessories for men, women and children. Products are sold in over 600 specialty and department stores worldwide, through a seasonal catalog at 1.800.892.4982, online at vineyardvines.com and at over forty freestanding stores.