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WHAT WE DO

SCGA Core Services

In addition to a Handicap Index®, the SCGA offers its members so much more. Join us and enjoy the best championships, growing the game with junior golf and protecting the best interests of golf with our advocacy efforts.

Handicap Index®

The World Handicap System™ , led by the USGA and R&A, brings the game of golf under a single set of handicapping rules and provides a more consistent measure of a player's ability. The SCGA is SoCal's resource for an official Handicap Index® and provides administrative support to our clubs and members.

HANDICAP RESOURCES: WHS HUB • WHS CERTIFICATION • RULES OF HANDICAPPING • HANDICAP FAQs

Course Rating™

The SCGA Course Rating team evaluates each hole using the Course Rating System guidelines and procedures. The team measures distances to various obstacles from specific landing zones based on shot parameters. After rating the obstacles, the team plays the golf course to gain greater insight and to clarify any doubts or questions that may arise on specific holes or shots.

After evaluating the course, the Rating data information is entered in the Course Rating Program. This program calculates Ratings based on playing length adjustments such as Roll, Elevation and Wind. Additionally, obstacle rating values are calculated for the scratch and bogey golfer, which produces Course Ratings and Slope Rating for every set of tees.

The SCGA re-rates golf courses every eight years to comply with the Course Rating System’s requirements. Re-ratings are also conducted after significant hole construction or course renovations have been completed. There is no charge to SCGA member clubs to re-rate or measure their golf courses.

COURSE RATING RESOURCES: COURSE RATING FAQs • CONTACT THE TEAM

Premier Championships and Events

The SCGA administers over 40,000 competitive and social rounds per year for its members. Events serve golfers of all skill levels and often offer access to exclusive courses.

  • Championships: Since 1899, the SCGA has administered the best amateur championships in the region. Our robust schedule includes events for all skill levels and offers opportunities for women, mixed teams, adaptive players and juniors. 

  • USGA Qualifiers: As a proud partner of the USGA, we administer various qualifiers in the region for amateur golf's national championships.    

  • California Amateur Championships: In partnership with the Northern California Golf Association, the SCGA conducts annual state championships for Men, Women, Seniors and Super Seniors.

  • One-Day Series: We offer single-day, multi-format net events for golfers of all skill levels. Players can earn points throughout the season for their chance to compete in the One-Day Series Match Play Championship.

  • Member Outings: The SCGA's Member Outings program provides access to some of SoCal's most exclusive private clubs and facilities. The program also offers out-of-market trips to Bandon Dunes, Pebble Beach and other premier destinations (domestic and abroad). 

FORE Magazine

Produced in-house quarterly, the award-winning FORE Magazine comes as an exclusive benefit of your SCGA membership. Each issue features in-depth storytelling that reflects the passion and lifestyle of the SCGA member. With stories highlighting member journeys, sustainability in SoCal golf, travel and restaurant reviews, FORE Magazine is a must-read for every member.

READ NOW: FORE MAGAZINE WEBSITE • DIGITAL CATALOG

Advocacy

The SCGA provides legislative and regulatory advocacy services to its members, member clubs and the California golf industry. Whatever the public policy issue—water, drought, environmental compliance, taxes, land use or mounting costs of doing business—the SCGA is a constant presence at local, state and national levels, working to ensure that the political terrain is friendly for all who love and play the game of golf in Southern California.

RESOURCES: STAY CURRENT ON THE SCGA'S ADVOCACY EFFORTS

Junior Golf

The SCGA Junior Golf Foundation develops an inclusive golf community that enables kids to thrive on and beyond the course. We believe that every kid in Southern California, no matter their circumstance, should have the opportunity to pursue the game and experience the positive impact that it can have.

LEARN MORE: FIND PROGRAMMING NEAR YOU • GET INVOLVED

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