Educate and Communicate the Rules of Handicapping to Members

How well players comply with the Rules of Handicapping depends, to a large extent, on how well their responsibilities are communicated to them and their understanding of the potential consequences of not fulfilling those responsibilities. An effective Handicap Committee will continually provide the education and information the players need.

The Handicap Committee should concentrate its education efforts on the key features of the Rules of Handicapping that are most relevant to players, so that they understand:

• which scores are acceptable.
• the timeframe for submitting scores for handicap purposes.
• how to calculate a maximum hole score for handicap purposes.
• how to post scores when fewer than 18 holes are played.
• how to convert the Handicap Index into a Course Handicap.
• the concept of handicap allowances for different formats of play.
• where to find the scoring record.
• how the Handicap Index is calculated.
• the Handicap Committee’s ability to post penalty scores.
• the process of a handicap review.

This can be achieved through the golf club’s website, newsletters or policies and procedures document. The Handicap Committee might also consider holding a member’s information meeting as part of the overall communication and awareness process.

AGAs should be able to supply clubs with a range of materials to support this effort, including PowerPoint slides, videos, posters and/or pamphlets.

The Handicap Committee should be accessible to answer members’ questions and should contact their AGA if they are unsure about how to proceed.