January 2022
As we get up and go in 2022, I am hoping by the time golf season begins we are free and clear of Covid and all of its relatives. I want to recognize and thank my friend Moose Brown for his Presidency in 2021. Moose was certainly a thoughtful, strong leader resulting in 2021 being a great year for our organization.
This year we will be celebrating our 100th year. We had planned on this in 2021 but we moved our celebration to a safer date for everyone. Our centennial will be held at Manor Country Club on April 20. We will also be rolling out our inaugural class of the Maryland Golf Hall of Fame. I am thrilled to recognize those who have represented our state well and have shared their talents with our organization.
I am excited to work with our fine, young staff in the upcoming year. In 2021, we replaced every position. Some were with us but in different roles. Kelly Newland, Elisa Hermes, James Hewatt, Kevin Crowley and Grace Appel are all talented, energetic people who will continue to bring us the best run Championships and Other golf events and programs. If you didn’t have the pleasure of meeting them last year, I hope you have the opportunity to get to know them in 2022. They are truly an asset to our organization.
Youth on Course is a wonderful program MSGA joined a few years ago. This past year membership in Maryland grew from 677 in 2019 to 1,744 youngsters in 2021. This program enables our junior players to play at designated courses for only $5. The MSGA funds a portion of the remaining green fee to the course. Support of this program has been spectacular with us raising over $95K to fund it. Thanks to all of you for your support of Youth on Course.
This year we have a great line up of events. I am especially excited about our Men’s Amateur. As customary it is played at the MSGA president’s course. So, this year we will welcome players to my place, Argyle Country Club. I think most will be both surprised and delighted with the course. Our Women’s Open will be played at The Chevy Chase Club and our Men’s Open will be held at Manor Country Club. All these are terrific venues so expect great things to come!
In closing, I would be remiss if I didn’t thank all the MSGA member clubs, my fellow board members, volunteers, and participants! I look forward to enjoying future time with you during the upcoming golf season. It should be a great one.
See you on the links!
Diane Herndon
President
