2012 ILLINOIS JUNIOR GOLF ASSOCIATION POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The following policies and procedures are in effect for all members of the Illinois Junior Golf Association. Policies that vary by membership category, division or event format are indicated within each policy.
AWARDS
- Prizes will be awarded to the top team in each division of a Parent/Junior Event.
- Prizes will be awarded to the top 2 finishers in each division of Regionals, Sectionals and Opens.
- Prizes will be awarded to the top finisher in the Gross and Net division in Playing Member Challenges.
- Prizes will be awarded to the winning teams and runners up in the Boys and Girls division in the Prep Team Preview. Prizes will also be awarded to individual low round scores in the Boys and Girls divisions.
- Prizes will be awarded to the top 3 finishers in IJGA Special Events.
- Prizes will be awarded to the top 3 finishers of the POY Championship and to the overall point champion of each division.
- Prizes will be awarded to the winner of each divisional stroke average race.
- Prizes will be awarded to all that qualifiy for the Match Play portion of the Chick Evans Junior Amateur Championship.
- Prizes will be awarded to the top 18 finishers at the Illinois State Junior Amateur.
- Prizes will be awarded to Medalists at all Championship Qualifiers (ISJA & CEJA)
- Prizes will be awarded to the player with the low round total in each round of the ISJA, CEJA, CDGA and Playing Member POY Championship.
- Prizes will be awarded to the top 2 finishers in all regular season YDP events, except 6-11 (9-hole) playing events.
- Participants in 6-11 (9-hole) playing events receive a certificate of completion.
- Prizes will be awarded to the winner in each division for the YDP Fall Junior Programming Series.
- Prizes will be awarded to the top 2 finishers in each division for each event of the Fall Junior Elite Series. A prize will also be awarded to the winner of the Fall Junior Elite Series POY point race.
If a player, for any reason, leaves behind an award on-site, it is the player’s responsibility to pick up the award from the IJGA Office or make future arrangements for the award to be brought to a future event. No awards will be shipped.
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CODE OF CONDUCT AND ETIQUETTE
The IJGA takes great pride in the quality of its players, host facilities and the level of tournament experience it provides. In order to continue making IJGA tournaments enjoyable for everyone, the IJGA requires all members to adhere to a set of guidelines known as “The Code of Conduct”. Its purpose is to help IJGA participants truly become “Better People Through Junior Golf”. The Code of Conduct is to be followed throughout the junior’s membership.
REPORTING OF CODE OF CONDUCT VIOLATIONS
Code of Conduct violations must be either witnessed first-hand by a member of the IJGA Staff, or reported by a member of an event’s active field within 72 hours of the close of competition of that event in order for the alleged violation to be investigated by staff.
The IJGA recommends that all Code of Conduct violations be addressed in scoring area immediately following play, with all members of the participating group present. This allows IJGA staff to gather facts surrounding the potential violation immediately and makes it possible for IJGA staff to address all concerned parties to expedite the disciplinary process, if warranted.
Potential violations witnessed by parents or spectators should be reported to the Division Director (Playing Member or YDP) in person, via phone or email. Code of Conduct violation reports provided by non-IJGA members will be weighed and the member’s future actions tracked by staff, however, only those infractions witnessed first-hand by an IJGA staff member reported by an IJGA member will be cause for immediate disciplinary action.
VIOLATIONS OF CODE OF CONDUCT
Any of the following actions by an IJGA member at an IJGA event, non- IJGA event, or toward another IJGA member anywhere, constitutes a violation of the IJGA Code of Conduct:
- Unsportsmanlike conduct, including abusive language, cheating, club throwing, disrespect to volunteers, officials or fellow competitors, or abuse of golf course property
- Not adhering to the IJGA dress code or dress code of the host golf course
- Use or association with drugs or alcohol, smoking or chewing tobacco products
- Littering on the golf course
- Failure to: Replace a divot, repair a ball mark, rake a bunker
- Conduct not becoming of an IJGA player, such as acting in anger or creating other distractions
- Physical abuse, threat of physical abuse or verbal abuse, slander or libel towards other players, parents, coaches, sponsors, host golf course staff or members, IJGA staff or volunteers in any medium
PROCEDURE FOR CODE OF CONDUCT VIOLATIONS
As the Illinois Junior Golf Association’s title suggests, it is the participating JUNIOR golfer that is the association’s member and main constituent.
In situations regarding violations of the IJGA Code of Conduct, it is the policy of the IJGA to address all disciplinary communication directly with the IJGA member if that member has reached his/her 14th birthday. In turn, violations of the IJGA Code of Conduct are expected to be reported to IJGA full time staff by participating IJGA members if a possible infraction is witnessed. Parents or legal guardians will be copied on all written disciplinary communication in regards to code of conduct infractions and warnings with the members over the age of 14. The IJGA will also make notes on warnings/infractions in the player’s account (only visible to IJGA staff) so that these can be taken into account if future disciplinary action is necessary.
Disciplinary communication with a member that has not yet reached his/her 14th birthday, if rendered on site, will be immediately addressed to the member, and all efforts will be made by staff to address members under the age of 14 in the presence of a parent or legal guardian, where possible. If no parent or legal guardian is present, all communication, whether verbal or written, will be documented with that member’s parent or legal guardian at the earliest suitable time.
It is the policy of the IJGA that IJGA staff in NO CASE will discuss any suspension, disciplinary action or penalty incurred by ANY member with anyone other than that penalized member and/or that member’s parents or legal guardians.
IJGA competitors taking any action listed as prohibited in the IJGA Code of Conduct are subject to disqualification and immediate removal from the event and facility as deemed appropriate by staff.
CODE OF CONDUCT VIOLATION PENALTIES
If a severe breach of the Code of Conduct occurs and is witnessed by an IJGA staff member, the IJGA competitor violating the policy is subject to immediate removal from the event and facility as deemed appropriate by staff.
If a severe breach of the Code of conduct occurs, and is reported by a member of an event’s active field within 72 hours of the close of competition of that event, the alleged violation will be investigated by staff.
- A written report of the violation will be created by the Manager/Director of the division in which the alleged violation took place and forwarded to the IJGA Executive Director and Executive Committee for review. The report will include an account of the violation, any other violations to date, all other pertinent information, along with a recommendation from the Director to the Committee on that member’s future status.
- The Executive Committee will have ten (10) days from the date of the report to decide on the status of that member. The member will then receive a copy of the Director’s report, along with written notice of the Committee’s decision.
- In the event of a suspension, the player will have the option to submit a written appeal of the Code of Conduct violation to the IJGA Executive Committee. This appeal must be received by the IJGA within ten (10) days of notification of suspension.
- Membership will remain suspended until the member completes all steps outlined within the reinstatement policy.
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COMMUNICATION POLICY
The IJGA staff receives hundreds of calls and emails every week from our 2000+ members and family members. The IJGA requests that personal cell phone numbers of staff members never be used when staff contact is necessary. Each IJGA staff member has an individual voicemail box that can be accessed in the IJGA office or when the staff is on-site at an event. For a list of direct lines of staff members, please visit www.ijga.org or call the main line at 630-257-9806 for an office directory. Any communication (phone calls, voicemail message or text message) to a personal cell phone of an IJGA staff member will not be considered. All messages/emails left for IJGA staff at the office will be returned. Because of the volume of calls and emails the IJGA receives daily, please allow up to 24 business hours to receive a response to emails or voicemail messages. If you should require immediate assistance, please dial the IJGA office at 630-257-9806 between the normal business hours of 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
In addition, IJGA Rules Official cell phones (Phone number listed on spectator wristbands) are only to be used for medical, rules or weather related issues. These phones are powered off at the close of competition. After the competition is closed, please call the IJGA office or email a staff member with additional inquiries.
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CONTINUOUS PUTTING - RECOMMENDED PRACTICE
In continuous putting, first player in a group will putt until he/she has holed out (without marking and having his/her fellow competitor putt). The next player to putt in the group will do the same thing until all players have holed out. In other words, a player who putts and fails to hole out shall opt to continue putting until holing out.
The sole purpose of continuous putting is to improve Pace of Play. The IJGA Pace of Play policy states slow play results in the following:
- First offense – warning
- Second offense – one stroke penalty
- Third offense – two stroke penalty
- For subsequent offense – Disqualification
Rather than repeatedly assessing the above penalties to players for slow play, the IJGA would like to educate and offer advice to our members on ways to improve the pace of play at IJGA events. We realize that there are many factors that can affect the pace on a given day, however the bottom line is that slow play affects not only the players in the tournament, it also affects the IJGA Staff/Rules Committee, the host facility and parents of the players.
When will Continuous Putting be “recommended” for use?
IJGA YDP Playing Events (ages 6-13)
IJGA Regionals (ages 14-18, and 12-13s playing up)
IJGA Sectionals (ages 14-18)
IJGA Opens/Memorials (ages 14-18)
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CREDIT CARD TRANSACTIONS
If the IJGA has to reprocess a credit card transaction, there will be a $25 Processing Fee assessed to the card holder.
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DISCONTINUANCE OF PLAY/PROTECTION AGAINST LIGHTNING
Players have the right to stop play if they think weather threatens them, even though the Committee may not have specifically authorized it by signal. When play is suspended for a dangerous situation, one long prolonged siren will be sounded. If the players in a match or a group are between the play of two holes, they shall not resume play until the Committee has ordered a resumption of play. If they are in the process of playing a hole, they shall discontinue play immediately and shall not thereafter resume play until the Committee has ordered a resumption of play.
Accordingly, if a player fails to discontinue play immediately, he or she will be DISQUALIFIED unless circumstances warrant waiving the penalty as provided in Rule 33-7.
To avoid an unnecessary disqualification, stop play immediately, mark your ball and seek the nearest permanent shelter area. All practice areas (putting green, practice range, etc.) shall be closed during suspension for a dangerous situation until the Committee has declared them open for use.
The IJGA uses the following signals:
Discontinue play for a dangerous situation: One prolonged note of siren/horn.
All other types of suspensions: Three consecutive notes of siren/horn, repeated.
Resume play: Two short notes of siren/horn, repeated.
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DECIDING TIES
PLAYING MEMBER DIVISION
In the event of a tie for 1st place in any IJGA event (excluding Parent-Juniors), a hole-by-hole playoff will be conducted until one side wins a hole. For purposes of awarding trophies only, ties other than for 1st place will be broken by matching scorecards*, as recommended by the USGA Rules of Golf. In the event that more than two players are tied for 1st at the completion of the tournament, a hole-by-hole playoff will be conducted until 1st place is decided outright. The order of elimination of the other competitors playing off for first will be disregarded, and matching scorecards* will then be the method used to determine the rest of the positions receiving IJGA trophies. Player of the Year points for all ties broken (other than first place) will be shared and split evenly, regardless of who wins the scorecard playoff.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
In the event of a tie 1st place in an 18-hole YDP event, for purposes of awarding trophies, the Playing Member Division policy will stand.
In the event of a tie for 9-hole events, ties will not be broken and scores will stand.
*Ties for First Place in both YDP and PM Parent-Junior events will be decided by a scorecard playoff.
PLEASE NOTE: For all Championship Qualifiers (ISJA & CEJA), ties for qualifying spots and alternate positions will be decided by an ON-COURSE PLAYOFF. PLEASE DON'T LEAVE THE FACILITY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY BE IN A TIE FOR ONE OF THESE POSITIONS. If you leave, your spot in the playoff will be forfeited.
*Matching Scorecards - This procedure will first consider the best score for the back nine holes (this nine will be holes 10-18 of the course played). If the tying players have the same score for the last nine, the winner will be determined on the basis of the last six holes (13-18), the last three holes (16-19), and finally the 18th hole. Should the tie still remain undecided thereafter, a hole-by hole count-back from the 18th hole shall be used to determine the winner. If all 18-hole scores are identical then duplicate prizes will be awarded.
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DISTANCE MEASURING DEVICES
Approved distance measuring devices may be used by participants in the following event formats:
Playing Member Division:
All Playing Member events unless otherwise stated on the event specific Tournament Information Page.
Youth Development Program Division:
ALL 18 HOLE EVENTS FOR 10-13 YEAR OLDS
This includes:
Parent-Juniors (10-13 age divisions)
10-13 Playing Events (includes YDP Sizzler)
12-13 Playing Events
12-13 "Play Up" Regionals
Use of distance measuring devices in other Youth Development Program Events, including, but not limited to end of the year Invitationals/Championships will be determined by committee on a case-by-case basis and the decision posted on the events' Tournament Information Page by the event closing date.
A player may obtain distance information by using a device that measures distance only, and has no Global Positioning System (GPS) or satellite capabilities. If, during the stipulated round, a player uses a device that is designed to gauge or measure other conditions that might affect play (e.g., gradient, wind speed, temperature, etc.), or has GPS or satellite capabilities, the player will be disqualified, regardless of whether any such additional function is actually used. Distance measuring devices that may be used for incoming or outgoing communication (e.g. cellular phone applications) are prohibited under the IJGA Electronic Communications Devices policy listed below and participants found using such devices will be disqualified.
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DRESS CODE POLICY
The IJGA takes great pride in the quality of its players and host facilities. In order to continue to develop and expand the outstanding relationship that the IJGA has developed with its host facilities, IJGA Membership AND SPECATORS must adhere to the IJGA Dress Code. Please note that the IJGA Tournament staff has the right to deem other attire to be improper, even if it does not appear in this list.
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The dress code must be observed by all players, as well as parents and spectators
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Spectators in violation may be asked to leave the facility
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Players in violation will not be allowed to tee off
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Should a host facility have a stricter dress code, its policy will take precedence
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Questionable attire will be reviewed by the onsite Tournament Committee
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Proper attire is required at all times at the host facility
PROHIBITED ATTIRE
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Tank tops and T-shirts
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Shirts with offensive language or pictures
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Shirts, hats, or golf bags with any alcohol, tobacco or drug references
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Golf shoes with metal golf spikes
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Slacks or shorts with holes, tears and/or frayed ends
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Denim shorts, short shorts, cut-off shorts, gym shorts or jeans
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Body piercings
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Tattoos (must be covered)
REQUIRED DRESS CODE
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Hats/visors must be worn with brim forward
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Males MUST remove their hats whenever indoors
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Collared shirts must be worn and tucked in at all times. “Mock-turtlenecks” are acceptable
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Women's fashion shirts without a collar are acceptable but must have sleeves
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Slacks and shorts must be hemmed at the bottom and NOT frayed
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Spikeless/non-metal golf shoes or clean, appropriate tennis shoes
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Women’s fashion shirts must not rise above the belt line at any time during the golf swing
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Women’s shorts or fashion/golf skorts must be AT LEAST finger-tip length when arms are extended straight down one’s sides – or knee-length or below shorts, capris or pants.
SPIKELESS/NON-METAL SHOE POLICY
It is a requirement of the IJGA that all individuals participating in any IJGA sanctioned, sponsored or co-sponsored event wear “spikeless/non-metal” golf shoes. It is the sole responsibility of the IJGA member to make sure that he or she complies with this condition of competition by wearing the appropriate conforming shoes while playing in the event. Any competitor found in violation of this policy after making a stroke from their first teeing ground will be disqualified from the event.
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ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS DEVICES
The use of pagers, mobile telephones, personal music systems and the like are strictly prohibited for use by participants in IJGA events. This includes any distance measuring devices with Global Positioning System (GPS) or satellite capabilities. ANY participant found using the above devices during their stipulated round will be DISQUALIFIED. Use is defined as powered on and/or able to receive communications.
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ELIGIBILITY
PLAYING MEMBER DIVISION
IJGA event entries are open to amateur golfers, ages 14 to 18 inclusive. The member’s age as of August 15, 2012 will determine the age flight they compete in for the entire 2012 season.
18 year olds who turn 19 during the summer may apply for membership and compete in events up to their 19th birthday.
YDP DIVISION
IJGA event entries are open to amateur golfers, ages 6 to 13 inclusive. The member’s age as of August 15, 2012 will determine the age flight they compete in for the entire 2012 season.
A 13 year old who will be a freshman in High School has the option to move up from the Youth Development Program to the Playing Member Division.
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END OF YEAR INVITATIONALS
PLAYING MEMBER DIVISION
To be eligible for the Player of the Year Championship the member must have competed in at least three (3) IJGA Sanctioned Point-Awarding Tournaments.
YDP DIVISION
To be eligible for the end of the year invitationals, the member must have competed in at least three (3) IJGA Sanctioned Point-Awarding Tournaments.
10-11 Year Old Invitational Qualifications
Any 10-11 year old male who has placed in the top three (3) at a YDP Playing Event (18-holes) is automatically qualified for the 10-11 Year Old Invitational Event, provided that he has attended a YDP Clinic between the years of 2010-2012 (past three years).
Any 10-11 year old female who has placed in the top two (2) at a YDP Playing Event (18-holes) is automatically qualified, provided that she has attended a YDP Clinic between the years of 2010-2012 (past three years).
**Only members who play 18-holes during the season will be eligible to qualify for the 10-11 Year Old Invitational.
12-13 Year Old Tournament of Champions Qualifications
This event is held in memory of Dave Rowlands, a former IJGA supporter and volunteer.
Any 12-13 year old who places in the top 50 in his or her Player of the Year Points race is automatically qualified for the Dave Rowlands Tournament of Champions event held at the end of the IJGA season, provided that they have attended a YDP Clinic between the years of 2010-2012 (past three years). These eligibility criteria are applicable to both boys’ and girls’ divisions. Other 12-13 year olds will be invited based upon their accumulation of Player of the Year Points, at the discretion of the Director of Youth Programming and the Executive Director.
NOTE: 12-13 year olds playing up in IJGA Regionals will NOT be eligible for Player of the Year Points in either the 12-13 year old POY race or the 14-18 POY race.;
While there will be no entry fee associated with this event, all qualifiers will be required to formally acknowledge their invitation and intent to participate.
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FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Financial assistance is available. Please contact the IJGA for more information.
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FORMAT OF PLAY
PLAYING MEMBER DIVISION
IJGA Tournaments are played at scratch, no handicaps*, in Age Group Flights with Boys and Girls Divisions in each flight for most events.
- IJGA Playing Member Juniors: 14-15 Year-olds
- IJGA Playing Member Seniors: 16-18 Year-olds
*Handicaps will be used only in the net division of the Playing Member Challenge series.
Some events may have varying age requirements and not all events will have both Girls and Boys Divisions. Exceptions will be noted on the event’s online Tournament Information Page (TIP). Some premiere events may require non-exempt players to qualify into each Championship’s starting field. Refer to these events for specifics.
PARENT / JUNIORS
These tournaments are 18-Hole Team Stroke Play events. The field is divided into four (4) divisions: Father/Son; Father/ Daughter; Mother/Daughter; and Mother/Son. These events are a collection of “pre-season” events held on Saturdays at IJGA host facilities. These events are intended to be events which allow IJGA members to get out and meet some the other members they will be competing against throughout the summer. Parent/Juniors also are good events to prepare for the upcoming season by familiarizing parents and members with the tournament process: registration, rules, scoring and etiquette. Tournaments will be filled on a first come, first served basis. 48 team max field size.
REGIONALS
These events are 18-Hole Individual Stroke Play Competitions open to any male or female Playing Member. Regional events are great events for NEW members and/or members looking for experience for his/her upcoming high school golf season. There are four (4) divisions within the event: Sr. Boys (16-18), Jr. Boys (14-15), Sr. Girls (16-18), and Jr. Girls (14-15). Players are competing for player of the year points. 96 player max field size.
In 2012, members of the 12-13 Division of the Youth Development Program will be eligible to “play up” in five (5) Regionals. In these events, 12-13 year olds will not be competing for player of the year points (in either the 12-13 or Playing Member Division race), and max field size will be 150.
OPENS
These events are 18-Hole Individual Stroke Play Competitions. Opens are comparable to Regionals in that they are also 18-hole stroke play competitions open to any male or female IJGA Playing Member. Field sizes, and as a result, the level of Player of the Year points awarded to top finishers, are larger. There are four (4) divisions within the event: Sr. Boys (16-18), Jr. Boys (14-15), Sr. Girls (16-18), and Jr. Girls (14-15). Players are competing for player of the year points. Tournaments will be filled on a first come, first served basis. 192 player max field size.
PLAYING MEMBER CHALLENGE EVENTS (JUNIORS MUST QUALIFY)
The latest addition to IJGA programming for junior golfers ages 14-18 is the Playing Member Challenge. This new series of three events will replace the previously competed Tournament Player Series (TPS) and will feature one-day, 18-hole rounds at some of the best golf facilities in the Chicago-land area.
These invitation-only events will utilize member’s IJGA-provided USGA Handicap Index to determine eligibility. Registration eligibility will be based on eligible juniors’ Handicap Index as of to-be-determined revision dates (Handicaps update on the 1st and 15th of every month.). The handicap limit for boys will be a 10.0 or less active USGA Handicap Index and for girls will be a 27.0 or less active USGA Handicap Index. A USGA Handicap Index is arrived at by taking the lowest 10 differentials out of the last 20 rounds posted, however, a handicap can be established with only 5 rounds posted.
Prizes for this series will be awarded based on divisions in both gross and net flights as well the opportunity for juniors to earn an additional Player of the Year (POY) point bonus based on the juniors’ cumulative results over the entire two (2) event series in 2012. If you are a first-year IJGA member and wish to qualify for this series of events, please forward a golf resume including your previous season's handicap verification information to Director of Playing Member Services Jordan Abdel-Haq at jabdel@ijga.org.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Formats and field sizes vary. Please see each event’s Tournament Information Page for each event for more information. Tournaments will be filled on a first come, first served basis.
Note: The IJGA Sizzler is a Special Event and POY Points are awarded for it.
IJGA CHAMPIONSHIPS
The highest level of IJGA competition, the MAJORS are intended to highlight the best players in the IJGA while giving players in the respective events opportunities to gain EXEMPTIONS to American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) events. The ISJA is open to Boys ONLY, ages 12-18 who are residents of the state of Illinois. The CEJA Match Play Championship is open to any male or female IJGA Playing Member. If a player is not EXEMPT from qualifying for the one of the Championship(s) listed as having qualifiers, he/she must attempt to qualify at only ONE of the qualifying sites. Qualifiers are open to IJGA members, 12- 8 years. Number of qualifiers from each site will be determined based on the total number of applicants. The Player of the Year Championship will be open to players based on their current season’s Player of the Year Points Ranking (minimum 3 IJGA points-earning events completed to be eligible).
YDP DIVISION, IJGA
FOR 6 TO 11 YEAR OLDS
The 6-11 year old age division plays 9-hole events on par 3 courses (Eleven events in 2012) or 18-hole events on executive courses (Two events in 2012). Following each playing opportunity, pass/fail rules and etiquette quizzes are given. Maximum field size 90 players.
FOR 10-13 YEAR OLDS
The 10-13 year old flight is designed to prepare members for the transition into the Playing Member Division, and is the most competitive division of the YDP. Events consist of 120-player 18-hole individual stroke play competitions (on a regulation golf course) for both boys and girls. In each event, players are able to compete for ‘‘Player of the Year’’ points. At the end of the season, the YDP member with the most points (male and female) will be honored as the YDP Player of the Year. The 10-13 year old division is the only division within the YDP that allows registered spectators access to the course.
In July, the Cog Hill Sizzler will feature the YDP's largest field of the summer with juniors ages 10-13 having the option to compete in either a 9-hole or 18-hole event.
FOR 12 & 13 YEAR OLDS
The 12 & 13 year old flight is designed to prepare members for the transition into the Playing Member Division, and is the most competitive division of the YDP. Events consist of 90-player, 18-hole individual stroke play competitions (Nine events on a regulation golf course) for both boys and girls. Players in the 18-hole divisions are able to compete for ‘‘Player of the Year’’ points. At the end of the season, the YDP member with the most points (male and female) will be honored as the YDP Player of the Year. The 12 & 13 year old division is the only division within the YDP that allows registered spectators access to the course.
Juniors in the 12 & 13 age division will have the opportunity to play up in five Playing Member Regional events. These tournaments will draw a field of 150 juniors (120 PM, 30 YDP) to compete across a 12-18 age division. In these events, 12-13 year olds will be competing for player of the year points (in the 12-13 POY race). The field size in these events is 40% the size of a regular 12-13 year old event. Keeping that in mind, we kept all of the points for each place close to 40% of what they are for the larger events.
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MANDATORY VOLUNTEER POLICY FOR FAMILIES OF 6-11 YEAR OLDS
One member of each YDP household (IJGA member ages 6-11) is required to volunteer a minimum of two (2) YDP events during the season. PLEASE NOTE: As no spectators are allowed at 6-9 or 10-11 year old division events, volunteers a) ensure the safety of all participants and b) ensure that IJGA staff are free to fulfill their duties in the administration of the event.
When registering a member for a specific tournament, parents/guardians will be given the option to choose one of two registrations/entry fees. If a guardian does not choose to or cannot volunteer for a particular event, a nominal $7.00 additional fee will be charged for that event.
If a guardian does choose to volunteer, there will be no additional charge per tournament. Eligible volunteers are those family members over the age of 14 that share the same home address as the YDP member.
What volunteering involves
Volunteer service may include, but is not limited to, walking with a group of YDP members during an event and keeping score, giving tips on proper golf etiquette and keeping up with the pace of play. Volunteers are not responsible for making rules decisions. Volunteers are also on-course to ensure a safe environment for the juniors and to inform staff of any emergency situations that may arise.
How to sign up for a shift
When signing up for a specific tournament, the registrant will choose whether or not a parent/guardian will be volunteering for that event. Guardians choosing to volunteer will be placed in a tournament database indicating the choice to volunteer. After the event’s closing date, one week prior to the date of the tournament, selected volunteers will be contacted via e-mail and directed to the "VOLUNTEER ASSIGNMENTS" section of the Tournament Information Page to check their designated time. The IJGA will do its best to assign the volunteer a tee time as close as possible to the associated member.
Note – Upon completion of the IJGA season, those families that have fulfilled the two (2) event volunteer service minimum will be eligible for a full refund of all additional fees charged throughout the season.
Note – Volunteers are NOT permitted to walk with an IJGA member in his/her own family.
Note – This policy DOES NOT APPLY to YDP members in the 12&13 year old age division as these events do not require the use of volunteers.
Note – Failure to volunteer when assigned a shift by the IJGA multiple times will result in the associated member being suspended from tournaments until a $50 penalty fee is paid.
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MOTORIZED GOLF CAR REQUEST FOR IJGA PARTICIPANTS
The IJGA will evaluate, on a case-by-case basis, any request to use a cart in IJGA sanctioned events due to a member’s or player’s claimed disability. For the IJGA to properly evaluate such requests, it is necessary to submit medical documentation setting forth the exact nature of the disability and how that disability prevents such player from walking during a stipulated round. In addition, players will have to submit information sufficient to enable the IJGA to determine that providing a cart would not provide a player with an advantage over other players. Each person seeking to use a golf cart due to a disability under the ADA must complete and submit to the IJGA the form entitled IJGA Player ADA Cart Request Form.
Applicants seeking to use a golf cart in more than one IJGA event over the course of the season must submit each request individually in writing prior to the Closing Date of each event. The IJGA will evaluate the medical information previously submitted on the person’s behalf during the 2011 IJGA Season, provided it is current as of the relevant submission and was otherwise submitted in accordance with the procedures outlined above.
Please note that requests due to “temporary” injuries or impairments that do not qualify as a “disability” under the ADA will not be granted. A disability protected by the ADA is “a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of such individual.” 42 U.S.C.S. §12102 (2001).
See Spectator Policy and Guidelines section of these policies for rules on spectator cart use.
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ON-LINE WAITING LIST
During tournament registration, if there are no spots available in your age or gender division, you will be sent to the On-Line Waiting List. Should a spot become available, you will automatically be entered into the event and your credit card charged. You may cancel your registration from the On-Line Waiting list at any time by logging into your Player's Club Account (aka BlueGolf), clicking the 'Tournaments' tab and clicking 'Cancel' next to the event.
We will not add any player on the On-Line Waiting List to any event after 12:00 PM the day before the event date.
The IJGA will not in any case refund your entry fee if you are entered into the field after the event Closing Date (typically seven (7) days prior to the event). This is why it is important to cancel your On-Line Waiting List registration if you are unable to play in the event.
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ON-SITE WAITING LIST
If an IJGA member has registered for an event, but is still on the waiting list prior to the event, IJGA policy states that the member may come to the event site prior to the first tee-time and be placed on a “stand by” list. Please be advised that this “stand by” list will be created on a first come – first serve basis and ONLY people who are officially on the waiting list PRIOR to the event will be allowed to fill in. There are NO on-site applications taken at IJGA events.
This is a standby waiting list, meaning the players on the waitlist must remain on site and the earliest tee time that opens will be the one assigned to them. On-site waiting list competitors will be guaranteed a spot in the field as soon as one becomes available, however, they must remain on-site at the host facility in to see if an even earlier tee time opens up, or they could lose their spot on the waiting list. If a waitlist player leaves the host site and a position becomes available during that time, he/she will automatically lose his/her position, regardless if there is an availability later in the day.
2012: For select IJGA events (Regionals and Playing Member Challenges with split tee, one-wave starts – i.e. a.m. only tee times off #1 and #10 tees), players from the waiting list have the opportunity to be paired with players outside their division if no member of the proper division is present or has registered on the standby wait list. Such player will only be permitted to participate in a non-division pairing whose starting time is prior to that player’s division first starting time (i.e. a Junior Boy may only take an opening in the Senior Boy division if that opening is prior to the first Junior Boy’s tee time). It is the waitlisted player’s choice whether to accept this opening or wait for an opening in their own division, but once they forfeit the open spot, it will be given to the next person on the waiting list. Players hoping to play in a division different from their own will be entered into the field ONLY IF A PLAYER FROM THE ACTUAL DIVISION ISN’T ALREADY ON THE WAITING LIST – regardless of whether or not the player from the correct division arrived after the player hoping to join the division other than his/her own.
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ON-SITE CHECK-IN AND TIME OF STARTING
As a courtesy to fellow competitors, and to assure that events run as smoothly as possible, all players are requested to check-in at the IJGA Registration Desk upon arrival to the course. If no Registration Desk is available, please check in with the Starter. USGA Rule 6-3a provides: “The player shall start at the time established by the Committee.” The penalty for Breach of Rule 6-3 is DISQUALIFICATION. However, it is a condition of ALL IJGA Conducted Competitions that if a player arrives at his/her starting point, ready to play, within five minutes after his/her starting time, in the absence of circumstances which warrant waiving the penalty of disqualification as provided in Rule 33-7, the penalty for failure to start on time is Loss of the First Hole in Match Play or Penalty of Two Strokes in Stroke Play instead of disqualification.
If a player arrives after five minutes of his/her starting time, that player will NOT be permitted to play in that tournament and must leave the facility.
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PACE OF PLAY
Rule 6-7 of the Rules of Golf states: “The player shall play without undue delay and in accordance with any pace of play guidelines which may be laid down by the Committee. Between completion of a hole and playing from the next teeing ground, the player shall not unduly delay play.”
Note: If the player unduly delays play between holes, he is delaying the play of the next hole and the penalty applies to that hole.
Note: For the purpose of preventing slow play, the Committee may, in the condition of a competition (Rule 33-1) lay down pace of play guidelines including maximum periods of time allowed to complete a stipulated round, a hole or a stroke.
The IJGA does not wish to apply penalties for undue delay. However, we insist that, in the interest of all, the pace of play be reasonable. We believe that, it would be unreasonable for a group of four (4) players to take more than 15 minutes, on average, per hole (4 hours and 30 minutes for the round, maximum) to play.
The first group to start will be subject to being timed (SBT) if, at any point in the round, the group is taking more than:
13 minutes to complete a par 3,
15 minutes to complete a par 4 and
17 minutes to complete a par 5.
Any following group will be subject to being timed if it falls one hole behind AND is behind time-par. Time par is the cumulative total time taken it should take to complete a hole, or any number of holes. For example, a group starting on a par-4 hole at 8:00 should complete that hole by 8:15. If that group finishes at 8:13, they are ahead of time par, if they finish at 8:16, they are subject to being timed.
Any group that fails to keep its position on the course will be alerted to the fact and requested to play at a faster pace. At that point they will be subject to being timed. Timing will begin immediately. Once a reasonable amount of time for a competitor to fairly reach his ball, select his club and it is his/her turn to play and he/she could play without interference by another person or the ball, he/she is allowed 45 seconds to execute the next stroke. This includes any time taken in determining yardage, club selection or the method of making a stroke.
Note:On the putting green, the timing will begin after the competitor has been allowed a reasonable amount of time to lift and clean his ball, repair his ball mark and remove loose impediments on the line of putt.
Note: An extra 5 seconds will be allowed for: (a.) the first player to play a stroke on a hole, (b.) the first player to play a second stroke on a par-4 or par-5, (c.) the first player to play a third stroke on a par-5 hole (provided it is not played from on or around the putting green), and (d.) the first player to play on or around the putting green.
After a group has been alerted that they are subject to being timed, these penalties will apply for subsequent offenses:
First Offense -- Warning;
Second Offense -- One Stroke Penalty;
Third Offense – Two Stroke Penalty;
For subsequent offense – Disqualification
The group will remain SBT until it is under the allotted time par, is no longer out of position, or is informed by a rules official that it is no longer SBT. The group is expected to play at a pace that will either regain its position OR, bring the group under the allotted time to play. In stroke play only, players are encouraged to play ready golf.
Note:Undue delay may occur between strokes. Accordingly, a competitor will be subject to penalty under Rule 6-7, even if he plays each of his strokes in less than the time allowed.
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PLAYER OF THE YEAR POINTS
PM PLAYER OF THE YEAR POINTS (POY)
No Player of the Year Points will be awarded for Parent-Junior Events, Championship Qualifiers, the Medinah Country Shrine, the Rog, the DuPage County Junior Classic or the IJGA Prep Team Preview. All other IJGA Playing Member events will award Player of the Year Points. For a complete Playing Member Player of the Year Points table, click HERE
YDP PLAYER OF THE YEAR POINTS (POY)
POY points will only be awarded for regular season 12-13 divisions of the Youth Development Program.
Separate POY points will be awarded for the Fall Junior Elite Series. For a complete YDP Player of the Year Points table, click HERE
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POWERED GOLF CARTS AND CADDIES
Players shall not use powered golf carts during IJGA events. No caddies will be allowed; pull carts are permissible, if not prohibited by the host course. (Players covered under ADA provisions shall contact the Division Director regarding a cart request.) To request a cart, follow the procedures outlined in the IJGA ADA Cart Request Form in the Resources section of www.IJGA.org.
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PRACTICE ROUNDS
Practice rounds must be arranged with the host facility before the day of the event and are NOT included in any entry fees. All practice rounds are at the player’s expense and the discretion of the host facility. Information regarding practice rounds will be available in the online IJGA Tournament Information Pages.
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PRIVACY
The IJGA collects personal information from its members, parents, alumni and visitors to our website through membership applications, tournament entries and online applications for information that allow us to communicate with each of these groups.
The IJGA encourages parents to monitor and take an active role in their children’s online activity. No information should be submitted, posted or provided to the IJGA by guests under 18 years of age without the consent of their parent or guardian.
It is the policy of the IJGA to NEVER PROVIDE any personal, financial or identifying information collected by the IJGA to any third-party.
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PUBLICITY, BROADCASTING & MEDIA COVERAGE
The IJGA may arrange for media coverage and publicity for all of our sanctioned tournaments. By their application, each entrant consents to references to themselves and their play in such publicity. The cooperation of ALL players with authorized representatives of the media is required.
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REFUNDS
Membership in the IJGA is non-refundable.
Once a tournament entry has been processed, a minimum 15% administration fee will be assessed for any withdrawal, regardless of whether it takes place prior to or after the event’s closing date. Event registrations may not be transferred from one event to another. For example, a member wishing to switch qualifying sites for a Championship will have to cancel the first registration, be subject to the 15% administration fee, and may then process a second online registration only prior to the event’s closing date.
No entry fees will be refunded after the event’s closing date unless a medical or family emergency has occurred and been reported to the IJGA as follows:
- The member family must submit an IJGA refund request form with supporting documents within seven (7) business days following the event date that the refund is being requested for.
- Please note that medical and family emergency refund requests, if approved, are still subject to the 15% administration fee.
- If approved, a refund will be remitted by check to the member family within two business weeks.
The Closing Date for MOST events is one week (7 days) prior to the day of the event. There are some exceptions (e.g. Championship qualifiers.) Please see the specific Tournament Information Page for each individual event’s registration deadline.
Again, cancellations processed after the event’s Closing Date, even if submitted prior to the event date, will not be considered eligible for refund or credit unless in the case of a medical or family emergency as outlined above.
In 2012, ALL cancellations, whether processed by staff over the phone, or online by the member family will be processed as future IJGA Tournament Credits with a 15% administration fee.
Cancellation Table:
$25 entry $3.75 fee $21.25 credit
$32 entry $4.80 fee $27.20 credit
$40 entry $6.00 fee $34.00 credit
$45 entry $6.75 fee $38.25 credit
$55 entry $8.25 fee $46.75 credit
$65 entry $9.75 fee $55.25 credit
$75 entry $11.25 fee $63.75 credit
$85 entry $12.75 fee $72.25 credit
$135 entry $20.25 fee $114.75 credit
$150 entry $22.50 fee $127.50 credit
$160 entry $24.00 fee $136.00 credit
$200 entry $30.00 fee $170.00 credit
Credits will be applied to the Player’s Club Account (aka BlueGolf Account) by the next business day.
Credits will be then applied to the player’s next tournament, seminar or program registration.
Unused credits at the end of the 2012 season may only be refunded in the following scenarios:
- The member will reach their 19th birthday prior to August 15, 2013.
- The IJGA member family will move out of the state of Illinois prior to August 15, 2013.
- A refund request form has been submitted to the IJGA prior to the Closing Date of the event that the cancellation has been processed for with supporting documentation (i.e. family hardship, scheduling conflict, player has qualified for a higher-level junior golf event, etc.). All such requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis, and are subject to committee approval.
An additional $5 processing fee will be applied to the refunded credit account amount, if approved, to cover check processing and mailing.
All other unused credits will be rolled over into the member’s next year of membership and can be applied to tournament entries once the subsequent year’s association membership has been processed and tournaments open to members.
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REFUND POLICY (WEATHER-RELATED)
Should severe weather, frost, or other circumstances beyond the control of the IJGA or a host facility result in closure of the facility before or during a tournament; the following procedure will be used:
The IJGA will remit a refund to event participants in the case that an event cannot be completed due to severe weather. The amount of the refund remitted shall be based on the associated costs of the administration of the event in question.
The IJGA defines an 18-hole stipulated round as completed when the same (9) nine holes of golf have been completed by all participants in a particular age/gender division.* Individuals representing the host facility and/or the IJGA have the authority to cancel or delay events due to weather conditions prior to the completion of (9) nine holes by all participants.
The safety of our members is our number one priority!
NOTE: If a player leaves a facility during a weather delay, and that player’s division round is completed, no refund will be granted, regardless of player’s circumstances.
Refund eligibility will be determined by the Director the associated division.
*ALL Playing Member Challenge events, Special Events and IJGA Major Championship, as well as 9-hole and combined 9-and-18-hole events will be deemed complete at the authority of the On-Site Committee.
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RULES
Play will be governed by the 2012-2013 USGA Rules of Golf as approved by the United States Golf Association and the Rules and Regulations of the IJGA as detailed in the Policies sections of each Division on www.IJGA.org. All questions shall be settled by the onsite IJGA Committee, whose decision is final. Each year members will receive a complimentary copy of the current USGA Rules of Golf as part of the IJGA membership packet; members are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Rules and carry the Rules booklet in their golf bags at all times. Ignorance of the Rules is no excuse for breaking them. If you have any questions on the Rules, contact the USGA, your local PGA Golf Professional, or the IJGA office for assistance.
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SCHEDULES AND CONDITIONS
Contestants will be notified of their acceptance and tee time(s) VIA E-MAIL, after the Closing Date of the event. Tee Times will also be posted on www.IJGA.org approximately seven days prior to the event. Contestants who do not receive entry into events will be placed on a waiting list and be e-mailed a notification soon after the event’s Closing Date. The IJGA reserves the right to alter any of the schedules and conditions herein. The decision of the IJGA Staff and/or on-site Committee, in any matter, shall be final.
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SCORING
The following procedures must be adhered to in all IJGA competitions conducted for the 10-13 year old 18-hole YDP division, the 12-13 year old YDP division and the Playing Member division:
- The IJGA Starter will distribute an official IJGA scorecard to all competitors
- Competitors will exchange score cards with fellow competitors in the pairing
- Competitors will keep score for another player in the group, while recording their own scores on the top tear-off tab of the scorecard
- Begin keeping score on the hole where you begin play
- Keep up with the number of strokes of the player whose score you are keeping, as well as your own
- Verify his/her score verbally at the completion of each hole before it is written down
- Record his/her score, and your own score, in the proper places on the official IJGA score card
- Make sure all scores are correct, legible, and the card has been signed by both the player and the scorer
- In stroke play, scorecards must be signed and attested in the official scoring area immediately and witnessed by an IJGA Official.
When all scores have been posted on the official scoreboard and approved by the Committee, the results of the competition shall be deemed to have been announced and the competition officially closed.
PLAYING MEMBER DIVISION
Scores are official when a player leaves the scoring area.
YDP DIVISION
Volunteers will keep the official scores of players in YDP 6-11 year old events (both 9 and 18 hole events).
Those members playing in 10-13 year old 18-hole events and 12-13 year old events will be required to adhere to the rules of the Playing Member division.
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SCORING SPOT CHECKING POLICY
In 2012, the IJGA is instituting a scoring spot check policy. The institution of this policy is due to the heightened level of concern and number of incidents involving cheating and/or the accusations of cheating over the past few seasons. The IJGA staff, both full-time and seasonal, will be solely responsible for enforcing this policy.
Spot checking may occur throughout each and every IJGA event, subject to staff availability. It is the goal of the IJGA staff to record the score of each individual player in randomly selected groups for one or more holes. If a dispute over a participant’s score arises either on the golf course or in the scoring area and the group cannot come to an agreement, the IJGA staff member that observed that group on that hole, will go over his/her shot-by-shot recording of the hole(s) in question. This information will be used only when a score is brought into question and decisions on enforcement of this policy and subsequent penalties will be left up to the USGA Rules of Golf and IJGA staff.
Spot checking will also be implemented when an IJGA staff member is suspicious or has been alerted of a suspected incident of cheating. The player in question will be spot checked at the next possible opportunity, whether it takes place during that event or the player’s next registered event.
Please note, the IJGA also does not guarantee the ability to have every hole of every player recorded. Spot checking is just one of the many responsibilities assigned to IJGA staff and interns. The safety of IJGA members is the highest priority of the staff and will always be addressed before any other matter on the golf course. The IJGA staff is also responsible for distributing water, monitoring pace of play, assisting with rules questions when necessary among other roles. The spot checking policy is intended to make our members and their parents aware that we are addressing the concerns of the integrity of the game as practically as we can.
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SOLICITATION POLICY
IJGA (MAGJT) events are intended to provide an atmosphere conducive to education, camaraderie and competition. The IJGA (MAJGT) maintains a policy that prohibits active or passive solicitation of its host facility employees, spectators, staff and/or participants before, during, or after events. From time to time, IJGA (MAJGT) sponsors and partners will be identified that may provide attendees with information regarding a particular product or service. These provisions are approved only for the intended events the sponsor/partner has contractually been given access to.
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SPECTATOR CARTS
In order to avoid unnecessary distractions to all competitors and to ensure that every tournament is conducted with strict adherence to the Rules of Golf, spectator carts are prohibited during all Illinois Junior Golf Association tournaments and events. Spectators must walk at all times while observing play.
However, individuals who are able to demonstrate a physical disability through proper documentation may request the use of a cart upon arrival at each tournament site. This request must be directed to the IJGA tournament director on-site and must be accompanied by the following items:
A valid state-issued driver’s license, AND
a. A state- or government-issued handicap parking permit matching the name that appears on item #1 above, OR
b. letter from a licensed physician stating the existence of a physical disability and the need for reasonable accommodation for the individual whose name appears on item #1 above.
Requests for use of a spectator cart for those with a valid driver’s license will be considered by the Illinois Junior Golf Association staff only when accompanied by information detailed above. If approved for use of a cart, the IJGA staff will issue the spectator an ‘IJGA Spectator Cart Card’ that they may display at future events. The IJGA will then recommend that the host facility provide reasonable accommodation, in the form of an automated golf cart, to the applicant. Those approved must stay on the cart paths and designated areas and not give players any assistance. A fee for rental of a cart may be required and will vary at each tournament site. Unless he or she is unable to drive the cart, only the approved individual is allowed in the cart.
Please note that requests for spectator carts may be limited in some circumstances (e.g. poor weather conditions, lack of available carts at host site, etc.) and use of a cart is subject to final approval by the host facility. In certain cases, carts may not be available for spectator use. In this case, or if you are physically disabled and are unable to present the required documentation, our staff will make a reasonable effort to accommodate your access to the tournament as a spectator. Please note, however, that requests to follow a particular group or player cannot not be honored.
If approved to use a cart, failure to abide by the agreed upon terms will render an individual ineligible for use of a spectator cart at future events and the ‘IJGA Spectator Cart Card’ will be revoked.
The Illinois Junior Golf Association reserves the right to amend this policy without notice should local conditions necessitate such a change.
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SPECTATOR POLICY AND GUIDELINES
In golf, customs of etiquette and decorum are just as important as the Rules that govern play. It is appropriate for parents and spectators to applaud successful strokes, but in order to secure the spirit of the game, we ask parents, coaches and ALL spectators to please adhere to the following guidelines
Please note that if any of the following guidelines are perceived as broken by an IJGA official, the player may be subject to penalty.
The USGA deems Advice (Rule 8) as any counsel or suggestion which could influence a player in determining his/her play, the choice of a club or the method of making a stroke. In addition, any conversation between player/spectator may be construed as advice. This includes any conversation between player/spectator in their native language. In either instance, penalty for breach of this rule is two strokes. Players are responsible for the actions of their relatives and spectators in regards to this rule.
In addition to the USGA definition of Advice, for which a player may be penalized, the IJGA has a set of activities that spectators may not participate in. Breach of the following by a spectator may result in the spectator being immediately removed from an IJGA event, and prohibited from spectating in the future:
Please remember that spectating is a PRIVILEGE not a RIGHT.
IJGA SPECTATORS MAY NOT:
- Give/Offer advice of any kind during round
- Make rulings; Please alert IJGA Staff
- Stand on tee box behind players while they are teeing off
- Call penalties on players
- Violate host golf course policies/rules
- Walk on fairways, greens and tees
- Use profane/abusive language toward players or staff
Keeping the above statements in mind, keep your conversation with the player to words of encouragement as long as advice is not given. Be supportive of all players in the group/event. Also, please note:
• Spectators attend IJGA events at their own risk.
• Spectators should stay on cart paths. In the absence of cart paths, we ask that spectators stay in the rough. Please stay off fairways, tees and greens.
• Spectators should stay one shot ahead of the group they are following. This allows spectators to follow errant shots and help identify where the ball comes to rest. Spectators are allowed to assist in the search for lost golf balls.
• Spectators may not give rulings. Please seek an IJGA rules official if the need arises. If a rules official is not nearby and a player is in doubt to a rules situation or has doubt as to procedure, the player may play a second ball under USGA Rule 3-3. In 2012, event-specific cell phone numbers will be provided to all spectators to call IJGA staff for assistance in the case of a ruling and/or on-course emergency. Spectators are allowed to inform the players of Rule 3-3 and to suggest them playing two balls if a staff member is not present, as long as a ruling is not given.
• Spectators are allowed to carry medicine, drinks, food, umbrellas, etc.
• Please turn off all cell phones while on the course at a IJGA event. Spectators should proceed to the clubhouse area to conduct any personal phone call.
• The IJGA staff may assess a penalty on the parent or player based on the severity of the violation of IJGA spectator guidelines and/or if advice is deemed to have been given. If a serious breach has occurred, the spectator may be asked to leave the facility or the spectator may not be permitted to attend another IJGA event.
• For your personal safety, we ask spectators to exercise caution at all times. When inclement weather moves into the area, the IJGA will suspend play by sounding airhorns/sirens. Accordingly, you should seek permanent shelter immediately. The IJGA staff will evacuate players from the course first, and then spectators.
• Spectators must adhere to the IJGA player dress code policy.
PLAYING MEMBER DIVISION
Parents and spectators of competitors in the Playing Member division are welcome, host course rules permitting.
All spectators must check in with a member of the IJGA staff in the registration area and receive a spectator wristband.
YDP DIVISION
The IJGA has a no spectator policy for the 6-11 year old events of the Youth Development Program (YDP) at all YDP Playing Events. This policy encourages our younger participants to interact with each other, to learn the rules and etiquette of the game and to have fun while competing in a relaxed but supervised atmosphere. Only IJGA staff, official volunteers and host course personnel will be permitted on the course on event days.
Parents and spectators are welcome at the clubhouse and to observe on the 1st or 10th starting tees of the host course. There is a mandatory volunteer policy in place for each YDP member ages 6-11.
Parents for the 10-13 and 12-13 year old events will be allowed to follow and spectate at YDP Playing Events. All rules must be followed as in the Playing Member division.
NOTE: Spectators will be permitted on the course for the Dave Rowlands Player of the Year Championship and the 10-11 Year Old Invitational event held at the end of the season in August.
Enforcement of the Spectator Policy will be implemented as follows:
1st warning- A verbal warning will be given to any spectator deemed to have violated the IJGA Spectator Policy.
2nd Warning- A Spectator Guidelines Warning Card will be issued to any spectator deemed to have violated the IJGA Spectator Policy.
Final Warning- The spectator will be asked to leave the golf course.
*For a serious breach of the spectator policy, decisions on immediate removal of the spectator and future suspension will be left to the discretion of the IJGA staff.
*Spectator policy violation warnings will be considered cumulative across the associated player’s IJGA membership and will be taken into account for future violations. All spectator violations will be documented in the player’s account, only visible to IJGA staff.
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TOURNAMENT REGISTRATION
To register online, follow these easy steps below:
- Go to www.IJGA.org and log into your Players Club using your Players Club ID and Password.
- Click on the Tournaments tab to show the list of all tournaments available.
- Click on the name of tournament you wish to register for.
- Under Online Registration, click on the Register button.
- Fill out all needed information.
- Enter your credit card information.
- You will have the option of printing applications, please call the office for more details on printed applications, if needed. Please feel free to e-mail the IJGA with any further questions at the associated email address: info@ijga.org.
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WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURES
WITHDRAWAL PRIOR TO TOURNAMENT
If it becomes necessary for a player to withdraw from a tournament that they have been accepted to play in, he or she must:
Online Withdrawal (Suggested Method of Withdrawal)
- Log into the Player’s Club on www.IJGA.org using your ID and Password.
- Click on the Tournaments Tab at the top of the screen.
- Under “Status”, it will give you the option to cancel that tournament.
- Click on Cancel to withdraw from that tournament and then click Cancel Registration on the next screen.
- The player and guardians will receive an e-mail informing you that your tournament WITHDRAWAL went through.
Phone Withdrawal (If access to the IJGA website is not available, please follow these instructions)
- Call the IJGA office during Business Hours, Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:00pm to withdraw from the event. (630) 257-9806.
- You will be transferred to the Administration Coordinator.
- Have your IJGA Players Club ID and specify the tournament from which you would like to withdraw from.
- Your WITHDRAWAL will be complete when you receive a confirmation e-mail from the IJGA staff.
WITHDRAWAL DURING THE TOURNAMENT
All registered players for an event who do not complete a stipulated round during the event (unless a medical condition is documented in writing by a physician within one week of the event) will be classified in one of the following categories:
No Card – Player began stipulated round and failed to complete the round or failed to turn in his/her scorecard to appropriate IJGA staff. The player will be classified as a No Card for that event and automatically removed from their next IJGA event. A No Card player will appear on the IJGA onsite and online scoreboard as a “NC”.
The IJGA regular-event no-card policy will be enforced at parent-juniors for teams withdrawing mid-round – EVEN IF THE TEAM TURNS IN THEIR SCORECARD TO AN IJGA STAFF MEMBER. Any Parent-Junior team withdrawing after starting their round will be subject to the No Card policy and the junior will be disqualified from the event and automatically removed from their next IJGA event WITHOUT REFUND
No Show – Player failed to withdraw from event and failed to show up on-site. The player will be disqualified from the event and automatically removed from their next IJGA event. A No Show player will appear on the IJGA onsite and online scoreboard as a “NS”.
Justified Withdrawal: Player is unable to finish a round due to verified injury, illness, or other reason approved by IJGA staff. Such player will be removed from the event and classified as a Justified Withdrawal on both the IJGA onsite and online scoreboard.
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