Arthur Moats isn't much of a golfer. Unless of course you are taking about miniature golf.
Moats, who said his mini golf putting game is strong, hosted the Moats for Coats Mini Golf Classic on Thursday night at the Robert Morris University Island Sports Center on Neville Island, an event that benefits Project Bundle-Up.
"Any time you are able to do non-football things with the fans, show them another side of you, it's great," said Moats. "And who doesn't love mini golf? Mini golf is extremely fun. You do it as a young kid. The fact that we can do it as adults is always a good time."
Project Bundle-Up is a Salvation Army program that provides winter outerwear for needy children in Western Pennsylvania and was founded by Patricia Rooney, wife of late Steelers Chairman Dan Rooney, and Joe DeNardo, retired WTAE-TV weatherman. In addition to the mini golf event, Moats also participate with his teammates in a Project Bundle-Up shopping day.
"The Salvation Army is indeed blessed by the outstanding support we receive from the Steelers organization," said Major Deborah Sedlar, Divisional Commander of The Salvation Army Western Pennsylvania Division. "The support we receive from the Steelers' players for shopping trips makes the personal shopping experience extra special for the kids. There is nothing like witnessing the joy on the faces of both the children and the players as they interact."
Moats understands the importance of providing the winter outerwear for the kids, as six months from now the weather will be a lot different than it is now.
"When you live in Pittsburgh, you know it gets extremely cold," said Moats. "It's really important that Project Bundle-Up is supplying these coats for the kids. It really is a need that exists. Every time you are able to do something like this to help, you want to jump on board and do it."
Moats greeted fans at the 'Don't Cross the Moats' hole, posed for pictures with the participants, and had everyone laughing and having a good time all evening.
"I always get a smile on my face when I get to do these types of things," said Moats. "Any time you can show somebody that you care it's a good thing."
