A Guide to Being a Golf Rules Official

There are many books covering the rules of golf but very little written on how to be a golf referee (rules official). Most people do not realize that almost all golf referees are volunteers. Sure many of them get lunch or breakfast covered while at a tournament. But very few actually get paid. The comradery and passion for the game of golf are what inspires most golf enthusiasts to begin an exploration of the rules. From there, many want to help with golf tournaments. There is very little guidance other than word of mouth on how to become involved or what golf referees do. Some seem to think that golf referees hang out in the woods and race out in a golf cart to tell a player they incurred a penalty. But on the contrary, we try to help players avoid penalties and be there for them when they have questions to insure they play according to the rules. We also help set up the course (set the tees, mark the course, and choose hole locations) and set up the tournament (notice to players, local rules, starting times, and many other administrative duties). We hope this book provides a different side of golf that might inspire you to become a golf referee.

-- Jason R. Smith and Woodrow T. Fail