The Yogi Berra Celebrity Golf Classic

For decades, the Yogi Berra Celebrity Golf Classic brought together sports legends, celebrities, and philanthropists to support Special Needs Scouting in New Jersey.

Origins and Mission

The Yogi Berra Celebrity Golf Classic was held annually at the prestigious Montclair Golf Club in New Jersey. What began as a simple charity golf event grew into one of the most beloved celebrity tournaments in the Northeast, drawing participants and fans from across the country.

All proceeds from the Classic went directly to Special Needs Scouts in Essex County, New Jersey. Carmen and Yogi Berra personally ensured that a portion of the funds was placed into a Boy Scout Endowment Fund, creating a lasting financial foundation for the program.

A Celebration of Community

The Classic was more than just a golf tournament. It was a celebration of community, sportsmanship, and giving back. Each year, the event featured:

  • Celebrity golf matches with sports legends and entertainers
  • Fundraising dinners with auction items
  • Meet-and-greet opportunities with Yogi Berra himself
  • Youth scouting demonstrations and activities

The Legacy Lives On

Although the formal Celebrity Golf Classic is no longer held, its spirit continues through the Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center at Montclair State University. The museum promotes Yogi's values of respect, sportsmanship, and excellence through educational programs and exhibits.

Yogi believed that sports, community involvement, and personal well-being were deeply connected. He showed that staying active — whether through fitness routines or outdoor activities like golf — was essential for a fulfilling life. His love for the outdoors and fresh air was evident in everything he did.

Supporting Today's Youth

In Yogi's spirit, supporting young people remains as important as ever. Today's scouts and youth organizations face new challenges, from navigating online safety and cybersecurity to understanding emerging technologies like AI. The values Yogi championed — teamwork, resilience, and humor — are timeless tools for facing these modern challenges.

"You give 100 percent in the first half of the game, and if that isn't enough, in the second half you give what's left."

— Yogi Berra