Golfers have been hitting the links all summer long in Massachusetts, so it’s no surprise that the latest safety modifications approved by the MIAA COVID-19 Task Force for high school golf this fall would look very similar to the protocols already being followed by courses around the Commonwealth.
The latest golf-specific safety modifications approved by the COVID-19 Task Force are:
- Players should not be using the clubhouse, except for use of the restrooms, one by one.
- There will be no handshakes, fist, or elbow bumps among players.
- All players must use their own equipment and golf balls. Players should not handle or touch other players golf balls or equipment.
- All safety protocols put in place by the golf course must be followed.
- Prior to each match, visiting coaches should send a list of participants to the home coach. The home coach should send a copy of the local rules to the opposing coach to eliminate the need for any handouts, other than scorecards.
- All coaches should make sure that their players are familiar with the Rules of Golf and Golf Course modifications specific to COVID-19, especially free relief for disturbed areas in the bunker and not touching the flagsticks.
- Upon arrival at the course, face coverings must be worn and social distancing of six feet must be practiced in all common areas of the golf course, including the driving range and practice greens.
- Removal of face coverings is permitted during competition but must be returned to the face anytime players need to be within six feet of each other. Players should be especially cautious of small or narrow areas i.e. bridges or narrow walkways as well as travel from the green to the next tee.
- If social distancing prior to the match is not possible due to space constraints, then participants should remain in or near their mode of transportation until it is time to move to the first tee. The home coach is responsible for enforcing all regulations.
- When directed to, each group of players will move to the first tee, remaining socially distanced. Scorecards and pencils will be handed out to players by the home coach who will wear protective gloves during the process. Each player will receive a scorecard as the Marker for another player’s score and should also note his/her own hole by hole score as well. At no time will players exchange score cards.
- Single tee starts should be staggered, at a minimum of 10 minutes between groups to support social distancing.
- Social distancing must be maintained throughout the round and all COVID-19 course regulations followed. Coaches are encouraged to travel throughout the golf course during the match to ensure that all participants are following all safety guidelines.
- At the conclusion of each round, the Marker will put his/her signature on the scorecard that has been kept with the other player’s score. The Marker and the player will then report to a designated scoring area and hand the scorecard to one of the coaches who will be recording the scores. The player will then verbally confirm his/her score. Throughout this process, social distancing should be maintained, and face coverings should be worn. The coach will be wearing protective gloves to receive the scorecards.
- Once scores have been officially recorded each group of players will then return to their mode of transportation.
- District and/or school transportation regulations are expected to be followed.
