Are you an Amateur?
An amateur golfer, by pure definition, may be indefinite and perplexing to some but what makes up a good amateur golfer is more than the sum of the parts. Taking a look at the amateur golf circuit, one can come up with the awareness that working through the circuit is about more than just getting better at a loved hobby.
First, it’s important to note that there is an actual definition of an amateur player according to the United States Golf Association. An amateur player reaches that status first by reaching what is known as golf skill. Golf skill is assessed by a player’s success at a competitive level. The level of competition can be local or national; the important aspect is that the player is successful competitively. Once a player has success in competitions and is recognized as having golf skill, this is known as golf reputation. Again, a reputation can only be gained through actual playing and recognition of golf skill. Simply being associated with the game of golf, administering tournaments or being an instructor does not gain a player reputation or skill.
Once a player has achieved golf skill and has established a reputation, they may become an amateur player. An amateur player is a player who does not play for money in tournaments or competitions and does not accept payment for instructing golf outside of what the official rules of the USGA state a player may accept. An amateur player may not claim to be a professional, or engage in any activities that would give them credit as a professional player. These activities would include accepting an endorsement from a commercial organization, allowing their name or likeness to appear for a commercial organization or purpose, or to enter into an agreement with a professional sponsor or agent.
Finally, an amateur player is not allowed to apply for membership to any organization for professional players. Of course, there are exceptions for every rule, and amateur golf is no exception. An amateur player is allowed to apply for an assistant professional player. They are also allowed to enter and play in a tournament or competition that will lead to play in a professional competition. The only difference in play between them and a professional player is that an amateur player must forfeit all rights to any prize monies that they could potentially win.
There are many more rules and exceptions regarding amateur golf play. Basically, the important thing to note is that to become an amateur golfer is a simple task. It is only for those who love the game of golf and are serious in devoting their time to playing the game and improving their game. Becoming an amateur golfer isn’t for those who would like to create a career in the field of golf. With the rules of payment and expenses in place such as they are, it would be nearly impossible to create a career in amateur golf. Becoming an amateur golfer is more for a player that has already played competitively in a business or school league and is looking for play on the next level. Whatever the reason a player has for wanting to become an amateur golfer, it would be highly recommended that they become familiar with the rules and regulations set up by the USGA before they take that next step.
