The AGA licenses the MPWGA to issue USGA Handicap Indexes to our members. There are numerous requirements that must be met in order to maintain our status as a “certified club”.
One requirement is the golf club must “require the posting of all scores made at home and away.” Another requirement is that “a player’s Handicap Index must be adjusted up or down (by the Handicap Committee) if the player does not turn in all acceptable scores or otherwise does not observe the spirit of the USGA”.
Random reviews are an important part of meeting our certification requirements. They are conducted to protect the integrity of the handicap system and to maintain our AGA certification. Clubs are subject to random audits by the USGA to ensure they are in compliance.
It is important to note that the requirement to monitor posting of scores applies to all of our members, including those registered as “HANDICAP ONLY”.
Not Posting a Round?
We realize there are instances when a golf score cannot be posted, e.g., groups play a scramble format or a golfer withdraws before completing seven holes. When this happens, please use the “Not Posting” link on the MPWGA Website Home Page. This link opens up a form that will send an email to the Handicap Committee with your reason for not posting.
Most Rounds of Golf Can and Should be Posted
When at least seven holes are played, post a 9-hole score. If more than nine holes are played but less than 14, post a 9-hole score. If 14 or more holes are played, post an 18-hole score.
For holes not played in these situations, take par plus any handicap strokes (Par + Pops) on each unplayed hole to determine the total 9-hole or 18-hole score to be posted.
Scoring for posting of unplayed holes differs from scoring for holes that are started but not finished. For unfinished holes, take the score you ‘most likely’ would have made, but no more than your maximum for that hole (Net Double Bogey).
One common error is taking a maximum score on a hole when a ‘most likely’ score would be the correct (and lower) score to take.
‘Most likely’ score is the number of strokes taken plus the number of strokes the player thinks it would take to finish the hole from that position more than half the time. When a ‘most likely’ score is recorded place an “x” next to the score to indicate it is an unfinished hole.
How long do you have to post a score?
Per the Rules of Handicapping (Rule I.3.) “A player is expected to submit acceptable scores for handicap purposes as soon as possible after the round is completed and before midnight local time.”
It is crucial that scores are posted on the same day of play for two reasons: 1) Daily Revision and 2) Playing Conditions Calculation (PCC) will use scores submitted at a course each day.
Regular golf groups are encouraged to designate one person who will check to ensure all members of the group post their scores. This is the preferred method endorsed by the AGA to ensure timely and accurate posting of all scores. It is also a good method to “help” partners and friends with posting.
A computer is available at both Pro Shops for posting scores. You can also use your home computer (www.ghin.com) to post scores or download GHIN Mobile App.
If you have questions or concerns about your own Handicap Index or any of the handicap procedures, please contact the MPWGA Handicap Chair.