This Code of Conduct, In-Play, applies to amateur golfers and caddies in all Championships, major activities, events and competitions conducted by Golf NSW in addition to any other requirements of Players and Caddies as set out in tournament conditions, local rules or by-laws of clubs hosting Golf NSW events. 

Each Player or Caddie in a competition must adhere to commonly accepted standards of golfing etiquette and sportsmanship. 

In order to ensure proper standards of behaviour during a competition a Player or Caddie, who commits an offence under this Code may incur a penalty in accordance with the penalty structure displayed in item 23 of the Golf NSW Hard Card.

An act is deemed to occur “during a competition” if it occurs during:

• competition play, or
• a suspension of play, or
• during a practice round.

Violations of the Code of Conduct In-Play include: 

Misconduct

1. A player entering a no play zone in which entry is strictly prohibited by on-site local rule. 
2. Failure to care for course (e.g. not raking bunkers, not replacing divots, not repairing pitch marks).
3. Use of vulgar or offensive language.
4. Abuse of clubs or other player equipment.
5. Deliberately distracting other players while they are making strokes.
6. Audible emission or unauthorized use of electronic devices such as mobile phones on the golf course or during play.
7. Violation of the Host Club’s Dress Code.
8. Use of any illegal substance on the competition course or any designated practice areas.
9. Other such behaviour that falls short of the standards of etiquette and behaviour outlined in Rule 1.2a of the Rules of Golf. 

Serious Misconduct

1. Recklessly or intentionally causing damage to the golf course.
2. Throwing a club towards another player or spectator.
3. Being disrespectful to other players, referees, spectators, course marshals, event volunteers or staff.

NOTE:

• The Player is responsible for the actions of his/her caddie. Breaches of the Code of Conduct, In-Play, by the caddie will result in penalties that are deemed appropriate by the Committee awarded to the player.
• Offences under this code do not need to relate to the same act of misconduct for the penalty structure to be implemented.