Below is a detailed set of rules governing a high school golf tournament in TAIAO. These rules are designed to ensure fair play, safety, and a competitive environment for both individual and team participants.
They are based on common practices in high school golf tournaments, including those aligned with Texas leagues while incorporating general standards from the United States Golf Association (USGA) Rules of Golf.
They are based on common practices in high school golf tournaments, including those aligned with Texas leagues while incorporating general standards from the United States Golf Association (USGA) Rules of Golf.
1. General Information
- Eligibility: The tournament is open to high school students (grades 9–12) from TAIAO organizations and are held in accordance with the General Rules of TAIAO.
- Format: The tournament includes both individual and team competitions. Teams consist of 4–5 players, with the top 4 scores counting toward the team total each round. Individual competitors not part of a team may also participate.
- Divisions: Separate divisions for boys and girls. If participation numbers allow, divisions may be further split by TAIAO guidelines.
- Rules Authority: The tournament will follow the USGA Rules of Golf, with local rules and modifications as specified by the Golf Committee.
2. Tournament Structure
- Duration: The tournament will be a one-day event, with 18 holes played . If weather or other circumstances prevent play, the tournament committee reserves the right to shorten the event or modify the format.
- Scoring:
- Stroke play format for both individual and team competitions.
- Team scores are calculated by summing the four lowest scores from team members each day.
- Ties for first place (individual or team) will be resolved via a sudden-death playoff on holes designated by the tournament committee. Ties for other places will be determined by matching scorecards starting from the hardest hole.
- Course Setup: The course will be set up by the host facility in consultation with the tournament committee. Tee boxes will vary by division (e.g., boys typically play from a longer tee, girls from a shorter tee). Yardages will be appropriate for high school competition (e.g., approximately 6,500–7,000 yards for boys, 5,500–6,000 yards for girls).
3. Registration and Entry
- Entry Deadline: Schools must submit team and individual entries by the specified deadline posted on the TAIAO website. Late entries may be accepted at the discretion of TAIAO Commissioner with a possible penalty fee.
- Fees: Entry fees will be set by TAIAO Fees cover greens fees, range balls, and administrative costs.
- Roster: Each team must submit a roster of players with player DOB. Substitutions are allowed only in cases of injury or illness and must be approved by the Golf committee before play begins.
4. Player Conduct and Etiquette
- Code of Conduct: Players are expected to exhibit sportsmanship, integrity, and respect for the game, opponents, officials, and the host facility. Violations (e.g., cheating, profanity, club-throwing) may result in penalties, including disqualification.
- Dress Code: Proper golf attire is required (e.g., collared shirts, golf pants or shorts, no denim or athletic shorts). Players not adhering to the dress code will not be allowed to start their round until corrected.
- Pace of Play: Players must maintain a reasonable pace of play (e.g., no more than 15 minutes per hole). Groups falling significantly behind may receive warnings, followed by a two-stroke penalty for repeated delays.
5. Equipment and Caddies
- Clubs and Balls: Players must conform to USGA equipment rules. A maximum of 14 clubs is allowed in a player’s bag.
- Distance-Measuring Devices: Rangefinders and GPS devices are permitted, provided they measure distance only (no slope or wind features allowed unless those features are disabled).
- Caddies: Caddies are not allowed. Players must carry their own bags or use a push/pull cart. Spectators (including coaches and parents) may not provide advice or assistance during play, except as allowed under Rule 10.2 (Advice) of the USGA Rules.
6. Spectators and Coaches
- Spectators: Parents, friends, and other spectators are welcome but must remain at least 25 yards from players at all times and stay off fairways and greens. They may not interact with players during a hole except in emergencies.
- Coaches: Each team must designate a coach or school representative who may interact with players only between holes or as permitted by the rules. Coaches are responsible for ensuring their players adhere to all tournament rules.
- Mobile Devices: Players may not use mobile devices during play except in emergencies or to contact tournament officials. Spectators and coaches may use devices but must not interfere with play.
7. Local Rules and Course Conditions
- Out of Bounds and Hazards: Out-of-bounds areas, water hazards, and lateral hazards will be marked by the course. Players must follow USGA procedures for relief or penalties.
- Ground Under Repair: Areas marked as ground under repair may be treated as such, with free relief as per USGA rules.
- Preferred Lies: If conditions warrant (e.g., wet or muddy fairways), the tournament committee may institute a “lift, clean, and place” rule in closely mown areas.
- Weather Delays: In the case of inclement weather (e.g., lightning, heavy rain), play will be suspended, and players must follow the direction of tournament officials. The committee will determine whether to resume or cancel play.
8. Penalties and Disputes
- Rules Officials: On-course rules officials will be available to address questions or disputes. Players unsure of a ruling should play a second ball under Rule 20.1c(3) and report to the committee after the round.
- Scoring Disputes: Players are responsible for verifying their scores after each round. Discrepancies must be reported to the scoring tent before the official close of the round.
- Disqualification: Players may be disqualified for serious breaches of rules (e.g., signing an incorrect scorecard, repeated unsportsmanlike conduct, or cheating).
9. Awards and Recognition
- Team Awards: The top three teams in each division will receive trophies or medals. The team with the lowest aggregate score over the tournament wins.
- Individual Awards: The top three individual finishers in each division (including those not on a team) will receive medals. The lowest individual score wins.
- All-Tournament Team: Players with exceptional performances (e.g., top 5 scores) may be named to an All-Tournament Team, as determined by the committee.
10. Miscellaneous
- Practice Rounds: If available, practice rounds may be scheduled at the host course for an additional fee. Players must book tee times through their coach or school representative.
- Range and Warm-Up: Driving range and putting green access will be provided on tournament days. Players should arrive early to warm up.
- Food and Beverages: Players are responsible for their own food and drinks. Water stations will be available on the course, and a concession stand may be provided at the clubhouse.
- Insurance and Liability: Players and schools are responsible for their own insurance. The host organization and facility are not liable for injuries, lost property, or damages incurred during the event.