Southward Ho Hosts Presidents' Invitational

The annual LIGA Presidents' Invitational was held on May 22, 2019 at Southward Ho Country Club in Bay Shore, New York. More than 80 leaders and members from clubs and courses all over Long Island attended the educational and informative day. 

During the morning program, LIGA President George Gatta welcomed the attendees to his home club and reported on recent activites of the LIGA, including a preview of the 2019 championship schedule. Michael Sullivan, LICSF President, shared an update on the Long Island Caddie Scholarship Fund and the Fund's plans to continue to grow at clubs on Long Island. Sullivan reported that the group of caddie scholars for the 2018-2019 school year represented the Fund's largest class in its 56 year history, with 38 desvering young men and women receiving scholarships. 

Sullivan recognized Fresh Meadow Country Club, represented by former LIGA President Alan Finkelstein, as the 2018 Top Club Contributor to the LICSF. 

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Two special guests were on-hand for the educational program: Dan Condon, Partner at Condon, O'Meara, McGinty & Donnelly and Steve Graves, President of Creative Golf Marketing. Condon presented a study on club financial statistics in today's economy. Graves spoke to the group about challenges facing the private club industry, and offered input on best practices that have been successful with regards to club marketing, membership retention and growth, and how clubs can adapt to the modern day wants of needs of members in 2019. Both presentations were highly informative, as Condon and Graves have each worked with a number of clubs in the Met Area. 

A highlight of the program was the presentation of the 2018 Distinguished Service Award to Robert J. Capazzi, past president of the LIGA and a longtime supporter of the both the LIGA and LICSF. Capazzi was introduced by Stephen Smith, the 2017 DSA Recipient and former LIGA and LICSF Executive Director, who shared stories of Capzzi's dedication and involvement with the organizations over the years. 

Following the morning program, the group enjoyed an afternoon of golf on Southward Ho's impeccable course. Southward Ho is the annual host of the Havemeyer, and this July will host the 102nd Met Junior Championship. 

The LIGA Presidents' Invitational was held with support from Gallagher, the presenting sponsor. For more information on the LIGA Presidents' Invitational, contact Kevin Kline, DIrector of Member Services.