Golf Vibes Only
Tap into your Social Golfer
Welcome to the SGA Way! This guide is our secret handshake—it shows you how we blend USGA integrity with the absolute best culture in golf. This is where the competition gets its vibe.
Our Ethos: The 4 Pillars
1. Integrity First
Integrity is the core of our brand. We're USGA-Certified, so let's keep it honest, play by the rules, and make sure those scores are locked in tight.
2. Pace: Play Ready
Maximum round time is 4 hours and 15 minutes. Why? Because the faster we play, the more time we have for the 19th Hole VIBES. Be ready to hit!
3. The Welcoming Tee
We built this community to be inclusive. We love seeing new faces and champion a non-intimidating golf culture. Everyone is welcome on the tee.
4. Respect the Green
We’re guests out here, so let’s treat the course like a VIP. Leave it better than you found it. That's just good sportsmanship, plain and simple.
Social Rules: Maximum Fun, Minimum Stress
These are our official SGA Local Rules, designed purely to speed up the round and maximize the fun. For official qualifying events, remember we always revert to strict USGA Rules.
THE OFFICIAL GRINCH RULE
We are the Official Holders of The Grinch. This signature SGA staple ramps up the competitive spirit during the round and makes the 19th Hole sweeter. IYKYK.
The Grinch owes the group drinks!
(The Grinch is the first player to 3-putt. They are solely responsible for beverage cart taxes, the turn, and the 19th hole. Only The Grinch can give a gimme.)
1. Double Par Max
Listen, once you hit Double Par (e.g., a Par 4 player picking up at 8), it's time to pick it up! We don't need any blowouts slowing down the flow.
Purpose: Pace. Prevents slow play and massive score blowouts.
2. OB/Lost Ball Drop
Lost ball or Out of Bounds (OB)? Don't walk back to the tee box! Take a two-stroke penalty and drop a ball right in the nearest fairway or rough (no closer to the hole). Let's keep moving.
Purpose: Mandatory time saver. Eliminates walks back to the tee. Essential for pace of play.
The Code: How We Keep the Vibes Going
A. VIBE CHECK: Non-Intimidation
Pace Pressure
DO 🟢
Focus on the group's overall flow and prepare your shot while others are playing.
DON'T 🔴
Don't hover over someone, don't sigh, and never call out a partner for being slow. That kills the vibe.
Advice Giving
DO 🟢
Only offer advice (on rules or technique) if a player specifically asks you for it.
DON'T 🔴
Don't be an unsolicited coach. This is a fun round with friends, not a $100 lesson.
B. Group Dynamics & Fellowship
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⛳
The Pace Czar
The person who putts out last is the Pace Czar for that hole. Get the group moving straight to the next tee efficiently.
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🍻
The 19th Hole Vibe
Stay for the vibes! All social golfers are strongly encouraged to join for post-round fellowship, regardless of your score.
C. Cart, Device & Noise Etiquette
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🤫
Cart and Foot Noise
When someone is hitting, STOP. That means no cart movement, no shuffling feet. Total silence until they finish their stroke.
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📞
The Quick Call Rule
If you must take a call, keep it brief and move 50+ yards away from your playing group so they cannot hear the conversation.
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🔊
Music Volume
Music is great for the vibes! Always check with the group first if music is okay, and keep the volume at a level that does not escape the foursome you're playing in.
D. Media and Appearance
Dress Code (Course First)
First things first: We have to follow the host course's dress code. SGA is all about style and comfort, but the course rules are non-negotiable. Let's look sharp and stay compliant.
Sharing the Vibes (Social Media)
We want to see your content! Share the positive vibes, the laughs, and the good times. But please, use discretion. Focus on the fun, not the flaws, and never air complaints about the round or other players on social media. Keep it positive!
Uphold the Vibe. Uphold the Code.
The SGA Way is the commitment to Integrity, Pace, Inclusivity, and Respect.
Play Well.
Golf Course or Nowhere.