Each year comes with exciting changes and improvements. 2016 was an amazing year of golf in Florida and we hope to make 2017 even better. Below is a summary of some changes and improvements you'll see in 2017.
Rules and Policy Changes
Caddie Policy
In all FSGA events where caddies are allowed, the caddie must not be a parent, step-parent, or guardian of the player.
Why? Regrettably, we've found when parents caddie for their children (of any age) can sometimes cause problems by slowing down play, having breaches of etiquette, causing distractions to other players, and even creating an environment detrimental their own player. Many other state golf associations have experienced similar issues and we were advised that prohibiting parents from caddying normally solves this issue. We encourage parents to attend our competitions and support their children, but stay "outside the ropes".
Accidental Movement of Ball on Putting Green
The Local Rule for when a ball is moved accidentally on the putting green is in effect at all FSGA competitions. Basically, there is no penalty to anyone if a ball is accidentally moved when it lies on the putting green. The ball must be replaced, provided it was not moved by wind or water. Video explaining the Local Rule
Men's Championships
Florida Open Purse Now $100,000
The purse at the Florida Open has been $80,000 for several years and it's time it got a bump. $100,000 is now up for grabs at the Florida Open which is heading to Black Diamond on July 14-16. Tournament Homepage
Pro Purses at Local Qualifiers
An average approximate purse of $1,000 is up for grabs at each Florida Open Local Qualifier for professionals attempting to qualify for the Florida Open. The purse is determined by the number of pros that begin the qualifier. Payout schedule
Reduced Entry for PGA Professionals
The FSGA recognizes how important PGA Professionals are to growing this great game and we want to pass on some savings to them. PGA Professionals in Florida receive a $30 discount on their entry in to the Florida Open.
Mid-Amateur and Mid-Amateur Stroke Play Swap Dates
The prestigious Mid-Amateur Championship was moved from October to May in hopes of avoiding tropical weather. The local qualifiers are held in late April and early May. John's Island West in Vero Beach is hosting the 20th playing of this Championship. Tournament Homepage
The Mid-Amateur Stroke Play Championship was moved from May to October and will be held at the Country Club of Winter Haven on October 7-8. Entries are accepted first-come, first-served. Tournament Homepage
100th Amateur Championship
No big changes here, but it is exciting! The 100th State Amateur is being played at Jack Nicklaus' home club, The Bear's Club in Jupiter on June 22-25. An appearance and dinner with the Golden Bear is planned for those playing in the Championship.
Women's Championships
Florida Women's Open & Florida Senior Women's Open
We are proud to announce the inaugural playing of the Women's Open and Senior Women's Open this summer. These Open's are being held for the professionals and top amateurs residing in Florida. The Reunion Resort just west of Orlando is hosting this Championship on August 11-13. A $50,000 guaranteed professional purse will be paid out to the professionals who make the cut. Tournament Homepage
Women's Amateur Expanded
Women's golf is flourishing in Florida and it shows by the amount of entries we are receiving. The Women's Amateur is golf's premier Championship for the top amateur ladies and demand is skyrocketing. The field is being expanded from 84 to 156 players to allow room for all of the talented juniors, college players, and top amateurs in the state. Tournament Homepage
Junior Golf
New 10-12 Age Division
A new age division for experienced junior golfers aged 10-12 has been introduced on the Florida Junior Tour. More Info
Net Competitions
New Division in One-Day Events
The players spoke and we listened. A new gross division is available for players 50 years of age and older. They play a shorter tee of about 6,200 yards then the younger gross division. More Info
Mixed Four-Ball Net One-Day Events (2-Person Best-Ball)
Now you can pair up with your spouse, or friend of a different gender, and compete together in a net competition! Sign up now. This new event is held twice this year: July 12th at Falcons Fire and October 6th at Disney's Lake Buena Vista Course. More Info
