Amateur Status FAQs

AMATEUR STATUS AND THE INTEGRITY OF THE GAME

The definition of an amateur golfer is in part "one who plays the game as a non-remunerative or non-profit-making sport." Each year our office will field many questions relating to what a golfer can and cannot do and still be considered an amateur golfer. The Rules of Amateur Status can be found in the back of the Rules of Golf.  As an association for amateur golfers, we are responsible for the enforcement of these rules. Those who violate the rules forfeit their amateur status. However, equally important to us is being able to prevent amateur golfers from endangering their status. Below you will find situations that are more frequently addressed.


Expenses to Events
Amateur golfers may accept expenses to play in tournaments as long as they are not provided by a professional agent or the like.  Expenses totaling $300/event of less may be paid directly to the golfer. Amounts $300 and above need to be processed and approved through the State or Regional Golf Association. Expenses may cover travel, lodging, meals, as well as entry, practice round, driving range and cart or caddy fees.

Cash, Prizes, and Gambling
The OGA will not condone any play in which cash prizes are awarded. If it is determined that a golfer enters a competition that pays cash prizes and does not, in advance, waive their right to accept cash prizes they will forfeit their amateur status. Merchandise prizes must not exceed $750 per tournament.

The matter of gambling comprises a related but different set of circumstances.  The complete USGA “Policy on Gambling" can be found in the Rules of Golf.  In general, gambling is allowed if it is incidental to the game being played, is optional, players know each other and the wagering is not excessive or fronted by outside parties.  Calcuttas, auction pools, pari-mutuels, and other forms of gambling which permit a participant to bet on someone other than himself are not permitted under the Rules.  Events that allow outside parties to wager or provide “gratuity” to players for performance are also a breach of the Rules.  We strongly urge our Member Clubs to disallow these events, as they run counter to the integrity of golf and may jeopardize the amateur status of all participants who enter.

Reinstatement
A golfer who has violated the rules of amateur golf may apply for "reinstatement" to amateur status. The procedure requires the applicant to complete an online application that can be found here. The OGA will review the application and, if approved, will forward the application to the USGA Amateur Status Committee who evaluates the application, determines the probationary period, and notifies the applicant of its determination. The period awaiting reinstatement is generally one to two years from the date of the last breach; though this may be lengthened depending on individual circumstances.

Instruction
An amateur golfer may not receive reimbursement of any kind, either directly or indirectly, in exchange for instruction related to playing golf.  Limited exceptions may apply for coaches of Colleges, Schools, and Camps.

Summary
Most importantly, if you asked for council and are unsure if a tournament or prize is conforming, advise the player not to enter the tournament or accept the prize while you or the player seek clarification from your State or Regional Golf Association or the USGA (note it is OK to ask that a prize be deferred).  Once a player has entered a tournament in breach of the Rules or has a non-conforming prize has been accepted, they are no longer and amateur golfer or eligible to play in amateur events.

Share Your Comment

Name:
Email:
Location:
URL:

Comment:

Remember my personal information
Notify me of follow-up comments?

Please enter the word you see in the image below: