Code(s) of Conduct
In alignment with Scottish Golf and The Stephen Gallacher Foundation, FCLGA have adopted the same principles in terms of a best practice code of conduct for both players and any parents/carers/family/spectators. These are as follows;
Player Responsibility
- Play by the rules, act with integrity and show good sportsmanship
- Respect fellow competitors, opponents and officials
- Always demonstrate a high standard of personal behaviour
- Never physically or verbally abuse or harass anyone
- Respect the golf course and host venue
- Follow all Health & Safety Protocols in place
Parent/ Carers/Family/Spectator Responsibility
FCLGA values the support from parents of players both on and off the course. It is an exciting time for young players and FCLGA are keen to support them through their golf journey. Participation in competitions and coaching programmes - as a parent/spectator you are agreeing to the following :
DO
- Enjoy watching some fantastic golf.
- Always show appreciation and support to all players both on and off the course.
- Encourage all players to learn the rules and play within them.
- Assist with all ball searches within time limits to encourage a good pace of play. Keep up with play, don’t dawdle and be mindful of the groups behind.
- Be a positive role model.
- Respect officials and their decisions
- If you wish further information or to question a decision, please do so immediately with the relevant tournament organiser.
- If you have a concern that has not been answered, please email juniorFCLGA@gmail.com
- Ensure your child understands and abides by the Players Code of Conduct
DON’T
- Get too close to play - keep to the rough. If you are supporting a player, you should remain a respectful distance from all players (at least 50 yards)
- Give players advice.
- Get involved with rulings.
- Use inappropriate language.
- Interact with players or officials on course unless directed.
- Verbally or physically abuse anyone.
- Behave in a disrespectful manner towards others both in person and with all communications.
- Respond negatively to a bad result.
Disciplinary Procedure
In alignment with Scottish Golf and The Stephen Gallagher Foundation the code of conduct above outlines what is expected of all players competing in FCLGA Golf events.
Examples of behaviour deemed to breach the code of conduct policy include but are not limited to the following:
Etiquette
- Dropping litter
- Spitting
- Any unsporting conduct or deliberate distracting of fellow competitors
- Failure to shout ‘FORE’ when hitting into the vicinity of people
- Failure to report a known policy breach by a fellow participant
- Any unauthorised or distracting phone usage during round
Care of the Course
- Not replacing divots
- Not repairing pitch marks
- Not raking bunkers
- Not respecting the course or event furniture - including tee markers or signage
General Misbehaviour
- Use of audible obscenities or gestures
- Abuse of equipment
- Breach of publicised dress code
- Disrespectful actions directed towards, host venue, officials, volunteers, spectators or fellow competitors
Penalties for Breach During a Round
1st Breach
Verbal warning and informed further breach be penalised.
2nd Breach
One Stroke Penalty for Stroke Play and Match Play
3rd Breach
Two Penalty Strokes for Stroke Play Loss of Hole in Match Play
4th Breach
Disqualification
In addition to the above penalties, the committee reserve the right to disqualify a player it deems to have committed a serious act of misconduct. A player will not be penalised for a second breach before first being advised of an initial breach. The committee will act on any breaches of code of conduct it observes or becomes aware of and will impose penalties on a case by case basis taking all relevant facts and evidence into account.
In all cases, the committee’s decision will be final.