What does the USGA do for amateur golfers?
The USGA works alongside allied golf associations to ensure that Committees and amateur golfers are aware of the Rules of Amateur Status and the effect that accepting prizes may have on someone’s amateur status. Reinstatement to Amateur Status How is an applicant’s reinstatement date determined?
Should the PGA Tour change the status quo?
So far, the only reason I’ve heard in favor of keeping the status quo is because, well, it’s always been that way, so there’s no point in changing the rule. Actually, there is a point. We’ve seen more amateurs contend and win professional events in recent years that they should be able to exercise such an option once they climb the leaderboard.
How much does it cost to become a USGA member?
To submit your application, you will be asked to provide a credit card number that will be charged the non-refundable $200 application fee. Please contact the USGA Amateur Status Department at (908) 326-1025 or [email protected] with any questions about the application process or your application.
Should amateurs be allowed to turn professional prior to tournaments?
Yes, amateurs should be allowed to turn professional prior to any tournament round, not just prior to the event itself. So far, the only reason I’ve heard in favor of keeping the status quo is because, well, it’s always been that way, so there’s no point in changing the rule.
How do you regain an amatuer status in golf?
This is the date that you are eligible to be reinstated as an amateur golfer and represents the end of your waiting period. How do I apply for reinstatement with the USGA? You can apply for reinstatement at www.usga.org/reinstatement. Your application will be reviewed by USGA staff.
What qualifies you as an amateur golfer?
They define an amateur golfer as one who plays the game as a non-remunerative and non-profit-making sport and who does not receive remuneration for golf activities because of golf skill or reputation. The complete Rules of Amateur Status can be found in the Rules of Golf booklet or on the UGSA website at www.usga.org.
Can golf professionals play in amateur events?
Yes, an amateur is allowed to accept this type of employment, provided you do not hold membership of an association for professional golfers or do anything else that would result in loss of amateur status. Are non-amateurs allowed to play in club competitions? This is not addressed by the Rules of Amateur Status.
Can an amateur teach golf?
Professional golfers are permitted to receive compensation for teaching the mechanics of the golf swing – how one holds, swings and strikes a ball – while amateurs are permitted to teach the golf swing without receiving any financial gains or other compensation.
What happens if an amateur wins the U.S. Open?
The USGA enforces the rule to maintain a clear distinction between amateur golfers and professionals. The USGA offers one exception to the rule. Amateurs can keep prize money for winning a hole-in-one contest during the course of a tournament. But the amateur could not accept money for winning the tournament overall.
How old is an amateur golfer?
In the United States and Mexico, a junior golfer is considered to be an amateur golfer who has not reached their 19th birthday during the calendar year ending December 31 prior to a competition requiring that golfer to be a junior in order to participate.
mantismike
As someone who worked in the industry 12 years ago I was thinking of applying for reinstatement to the USGA. In order to play in various tournaments and leagues down here in Florida. I want to preface this as I was just a club pro and really only played to maybe a -4 hcp.
bladehunter
I would guess it would be worth it if you wanted to play in amateur tournaments sanctioned by the state golf association, or the USGA.
b.helts
Yes. As @bladehunter said, I’m a reinstated amateur. I got my amateur status back 10 years ago. I had to fill out a form and detail all the money I had made that broke the rules of being an amateur. That was easily the hardest part as I had played for almost 10 years on a dozen mini tours and PGA Section events.
mantismike
Seemed like a bit of a money grab to me for someone in my position - but it was easy enough. Turns out I never needed it but if you really want to do it, its not that hard.
Newby
This is kind of what i was thinking. I worked in the industry and never played competitive golf.
Shilgy
Yes. As @bladehunter said, I’m a reinstated amateur. I got my amateur status back 10 years ago. I had to fill out a form and detail all the money I had made that broke the rules of being an amateur. That was easily the hardest part as I had played for almost 10 years on a dozen mini tours and PGA Section events.
BrianMcG
I just looked at it again on the USGA site and they have upped the fee from $150 to $200. This really seems like a cash grab at this point. I know in other sports, being a professional or being paid to play really does not limit you from playing in local leagues.