ELMSFORD, N.Y.--The terrible, cowardly terrorist acts of September 11, 2001 has hit the Met Area’s golf community particularly hard.  There is not a club or golf facility in the MGA region that has not been directly impacted by this horrible tragedy.  Some of our clubs have suffered a terrible toll in the number of members lost or missing.

At a time like this, golf and the entire world of sports seem unimportant.  At times like this, however, all of us who love the game must have even greater respect for the values of civility and mutual respect that golf teaches.  While the United States must respond, the root cause of the evil that led to this terrible attack on America will not be solved by retaliation or any action our government or any government can take.  Things will truly change when people around the world learn to respect each other and to peacefully coexist.  Golf is a worldwide sport that in a small way can help improve the way people in societies all over the world treat one another.

On behalf of the Metropolitan Golf Association family, we would like to salute the inspirational work being done by rescue workers, police, firefighters and government leaders.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of all of those who have suffered from this terrible tragedy.

                                                                                   Jay Mottola

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In the weeks and months ahead, the MGA and the Foundation will be looking for ways to work with our clubs and the local golf community to help with the relief effort.  Your input and suggestions are welcome and should be e-mailed to jmottola@mgagolf.org.