Code of Conduct
Spirit of the Game
“Honesty, integrity and courtesy; three words that have come to represent the spirit in which the game of golf is played. All players should conduct themselves in a disciplined manner demonstrating courtesy and sportsmanship at all times irrespective of how competitive they may be.” R & A, 2012.
This code of conduct has been designed to ensure that all players have a point of reference providing the minimum standards expected when participating in golfing activity. All players should ensure that they are fully conversant with the code and should strive to meet the code at all times.
Ensure that all golfers are able to participate in golf without fear of ridicule, harassment or restriction.
Treat other golfers with the same respect and fairness you would like them to show you.
Demonstrate fair play on and off the course.
Respect differences in gender, disability, culture, race, ethnicity and religious beliefs between yourself and other.
Challenge discrimination and prejudice.
Look out for yourself and the welfare of others.
Do not engage in any irresponsible, abusive, inappropriate or illegal behaviour.
Challenge behaviour that falls below the expected standards of the county or club.
Speak out if you have concerns about anything, your own needs or the needs of others.
Be organised and on time.
You must not consume illegal and performance enhancing drugs.
Caddies are permitted on the greens and are there to work alongside and assist the player in all aspects of the game. Both players and caddies alike should remain focussed at all times on behaving in a sportsmanlike and fair manner, and avoiding anything which could be construed as intimidatory behaviour.
Advice should be given only to the caddie’s own player, and a caddie should NOT enter into a discussion with the opposing player.
Both player and caddie should have a working knowledge of the rules, and a rule book should be carried. In the event of a dispute, to save time, the caddie should find the appropriate rule in the book, and show it to her player, who can then discuss it with the opponent herself, without any direct conversation between her caddie and the opponent.
A caddie may line the player up but must move away before the shot is made.
The player is responsible for giving her opponent her correct score.
The player is responsible for the caddie’s actions. Any infringement by the caddie may involve a penalty to the player.