FAR HILLS, N.J. (July 13, 2006) - The MGA Foundation and MetLife sponsored a youth clinic today at the USGA’s Golf House in Far Hills, N.J. Sixty young men and women from USGA/LPGA Girls Golf, Newark Youth Golf, Renaissance Golf, and The First Tee program offered at Fairchild Wheeler in Bridgeport, Conn., participated in numerous activities throughout the day.

The day began with a welcome introduction from USGA Senior Director of Communications Marty Parkes before moving to a presentation by Shannon Doody, a film and video archivist at the Golf Museum, on the history of golf.  Doody discussed the game’s origins and its growth in the United States from Bobby Jones to Tiger Woods.  The kids also had the opportunity to view some pieces from the USGA Golf Museum.  The most memorable object was the golf club Neil Armstrong used to hit his famous golf shot on the moon.  Other pieces included the U.S. Amateur and U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship trophies.

The USGA’s Senior Technical Director, Dick Rugge, gave the kids a tour through the USGA Test Center in the afternoon.  He demonstrated how the technology at Golf House tests new equipment so that it conforms to USGA standards.  The kids then moved outside where they took advantage of the beautiful day and used the USGA’s practice area.

The MGA Foundation sponsors youth clinics throughout the Metropolitan Area to promote the values and traditions of golf to a new generation of players.  It is with the help of MetLife and participation of groups such as USGA/LPGA Girls Golf, Newark Youth Golf, Renaissance Golf and The First Tee program, that these clinics are made possible.  For more information on the youth clinics or the MGA Foundation please contact Jeanne McCooey at (914) 347-4653 or visit or website, www.mgagolf.org.