Amateur Golfers

An Amateur golfer is define as, "one who plays golf for the challenge  it presents, not as a professional or for financial gain."  Rule 3 of the Rules of Amateur Status prohibits an amateur golfer from accepting prize money.  Those who choose to take the money forfeit his/her amateur status.  That's why you never see college players take any prize money.  They can play in tournaments where prize money is available but they have to waive their right to take the money so they don't get in trouble with both the NCAA and the USGA.  That's why you see some college players in some Major tournaments with an (a), next to their name to let everyone know they are an amateur.  There was a story back in 2011 where a Freshman in high school won a charity putting contest for $5,000 and did not accept the money.  And people might be thinking this kid is crazy but he did this so he wouldn't mess up his amateur status.  He refused the money and still kept his amateur status.
I believe this is how all sports should be played.  Golf does a very good job distinguishing between amateurs and professionals.  It's simple once you accept any form of money for play golf, you are a professional not an amateur.  Although amateurs in golf who are playing in tour events, may receive finical aid for the expenses for that tournament like transportation, food, housing, etc. 
The Rules also allow an amateur golfer to receive financial support directly from anyone for an individual competition where the expenses are $300 or less.  Once the amount exceeds $300 dollars, he/she may still receive finical support from sources other than family members but it has to be approved by and paid through the golfer’s state or local golf association.  But amateurs may not under any circumstances receive money for playing golf.  I believe these rules are fair and do a good job with separating the amateurs and professionals.







http://www.usga.org/rules/amateur_status/amateur-status/




http://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/golf/teen-golfer-garrett-sauls-wins-putting-contest-turns-down-5000-prize-to-avoid-risking-amateur-status/2011/06/01/AGD2WXWH_story.html