Code of Conduct

Golf is the closest game to the game we call life. You get bad breaks from good shots; you get good breaks from bad shots ‐ but you have to play the ball where it lies. ‐ Bobby Jones

Participating in athletics is a privilege, not a right. As members of the California High School Golf program, players and parents are held to high standards that reflect the values of our school, team, and community. This privilege comes with responsibilities that ensure the growth and success of every individual involved.

To support this mission, the California High School Golf Staff has established the following contract to clearly outline the expectations for players and parents during the summer, preseason, and regular season. By adhering to these guidelines, we aim to create an environment of respect, commitment, and excellence both on and off the course.

This contract serves as a foundation for fostering sportsmanship, teamwork, and accountability while reinforcing the honor and integrity that make golf such a unique and rewarding sport. We are excited to embark on this journey together and look forward to a successful season.

Players’ Roles for High School Golfers

As members of this golf program, each of you holds a vital role that extends beyond the course. Your responsibilities include respecting the game, embracing its lessons, and allowing it to shape you both as an athlete and as a person.

• Respect: Honor your teammates, opponents, coaches, parents, and the facilities we are privileged to use. Respect is foundational to the integrity of golf and our program.

• Learn and Grow: Study the game, understand its rules, and uphold fairness in every match. Let golf teach you lessons of discipline, perseverance, and sportsmanship that apply both on and off the course.

• Play with Integrity: Approach every round with honor, respect, and dignity. Represent our program with pride, knowing that your character speaks louder than your score.

We are committed to upholding all CIF, school, and team policies at all times. Over the next two-plus months, dedicate yourself to becoming the best golfer, the best teammate, and the best version of yourself.

Remember, the pursuit of excellence starts with attitude and effort. Let’s make this season one we can all be proud of.

Fees/Paper Work

All players must have proof of a physical and insurance, a signed contract, parent warning contract and emergency card , turned in by the first day of practice to be eligible to participate. 

Players cannot participate in any Golf Activities without having completed a sports physical and be athletically cleared, there are no exceptions to this rule. Sports physicals and Clearance Information can be found under the Team Information Link.

ACADEMICS (During School Year)

1. All members of the California High School golf team are expected to perform in the classroom as well as on the course. Academics are always the number one priority. Your first responsibility is your grades.  At no time, will you use golf as an excuse for missing an assignment or a test. With this in mind, it is the policy of the Girls and Boys golf team that all players must be passing all classes and receiving acceptable citizenship reviews in order to play on this team. Our program goal is to maintain a GPA of 3.0 or better.  To be eligible to play in matches, you must maintain a 2.0 GPA.  Through dedication and hard work, you can achieve greatness in the classroom and in this game of Golf.  

2. Player’s are responsible to meet with your teachers and explain to them that you are on the golf team and may miss their 5th or 6th Period class. It is the player’s responsibility to get assignments before they miss class when possible. Academics are the number one priority.

3. Any player who is failing any class(es) is subject to the following: 

   1. If the player is receiving two (2) or more failing grades, the player is not eligible to play in any of the tournaments or matches until the grades become passing. 

   2. Any players who receive “unacceptable” citizenship marks will NOT be able to participate in any tournaments or matches until the mark(s) is/are upgraded to “acceptable.” THERE ARE NOT EXCEPTIONS TO THIS RULE. 

High School Golf Player Obligations

As a member of the California High School golf team, you are held to high standards both on and off the course. The following obligations outline your responsibilities as a student-athlete representing CHS:

Respect and Honor the Game

• • Show respect to the golf course, your teammates, opponents, coaches, and the facilities we use.

  • Golf is a game of honor. This means refraining from throwing clubs, cursing, or displaying poor sportsmanship during play or practice.

  • As golf often requires players to call their own penalties, it is essential to understand and follow the rules. Use the USGA Rules of Golf app or consult a coach if a rule is unclear.

Cell Phones and Electronic Devices

• • Cell phones must remain out of sight and unused on the course unless permission is granted by the coaching staff.

  • Earbuds and headphones are not allowed while playing but can be used on the driving range or putting green.

Maximize Practice and Play Time

• • Use practice time productively and focus on improvement each day.

  • Compete with maximum effort on every shot and never give up.

Representation of California High School

• • Represent CHS with class at practice, tournaments, matches, and in all aspects of school life.

  • Your behavior reflects on your school, your team, your family, and ultimately yourself.

Commitment to Growth

• • Dedicate yourself to working hard to improve as a golfer. Golf is a lifelong sport that demands continuous effort, regardless of your skill level.

Leadership and Conduct

• • Be a leader in the classroom and at school through exemplary behavior and academic performance.

  • Understand that behavior and conduct are more important than ability.

Zero Tolerance Policy

• • CHS enforces a zero-tolerance policy for drug use, including tobacco and alcohol. Any violation of this policy may result in immediate suspension or dismissal from the team.

Respect for Coaches

• • Provide full attention during team meetings and instructions.

  • Show respect for the coaching staff at all times, regardless of personal opinions.

Attendance and Sportsmanship

• • Players must stay until the end of all practices, tournaments, and matches. If you need to leave early, you must notify and receive approval from the coaching staff.

  • Display good sportsmanship to all opponents, both during and after matches.

Consequences for Violations of Rules and Disrespect:

• • • First offense: Warning.

    • Second or subsequent offense: Disciplinary action with the potential losing playing time.

By adhering to these obligations, you uphold the values of integrity, discipline, and sportsmanship that define our program.

Missed Practice Policy

Golf requires dedication, consistency, and a full commitment to practice. Regular attendance is essential for personal growth and team success. The following guidelines outline expectations for attendance and acceptable alternatives when practice cannot be attended in person:

1. Attendance Expectations

• Players are expected to attend every scheduled practice.

• Commitment to practice demonstrates dedication to improving your skills and supporting your team.

2. Excused Absences

Family Vacations and Functions

• • Family time is valuable and recognized as a priority. Absences due to family vacations or important functions are excused.

  • Players must communicate these events with the coaching staff as early as possible. Enjoy and be present at these family functions without guilt or concern.

School Functions and Extenuating Circumstances

• • Absences due to school-related activities or unavoidable personal circumstances are also excused with prior approval from the coaching staff.

  • Whenever possible, notify the coaches in advance if you are unable to attend a practice.

3. Practicing Independently

If players cannot attend a team practice, they may practice on their own as an alternative. To receive credit for self-practice, players must provide evidence, such as:

• • Receipts from a driving range, golf course, or practice facility.

  • Video clips showing participation in individual practice (e.g., driving, putting, chipping, or playing rounds).

  • Verification from a certified coach or instructor.

  • Self-practice evidence should be submitted to the coaching staff within 24 hours of the missed practice for approval.

4. Summer Practices for Multi-Sport Athletes

Multi-sport athletes must communicate their schedules with the golf coach at the start of the summer season.

If summer attendance is limited due to other sports, players are expected to stay engaged in golf by practicing independently.

• • Acceptable evidence includes videos, photos, receipts, or scorecards from rounds played at a golf course or range.

  • Regular communication with the coaching staff is required to ensure skill development during the off-season.

5. Consequences for Unexcused Absences

• • If a player misses three practices without acceptable reasons or evidence, a meeting will be scheduled with the coach, player, and parent(s) to discuss disciplinary actions moving forward.

6. Weather and Flexibility

• • Weather conditions may occasionally disrupt practice plans. Be prepared to adapt and improvise when necessary, including practicing indoors or focusing on physical conditioning.

By adhering to these guidelines, players demonstrate accountability and respect for their teammates, the sport, and themselves. Clear communication and thoughtful planning ensure that everyone can balance their responsibilities and commitments effectively.

Arrival and Pick-Up Policy

1. Early Arrival for Matches

To ensure the best performance and preparation for competition, all players are expected to arrive early for matches.

• Players must arrive at the golf course no later than 45 minutes before the scheduled tee time or match start.

• Arriving early allows sufficient time to:

  • Warm up on the driving range and putting green.

  • Mentally prepare and review strategies for the course.

  • Discuss final instructions and game plans with the coaching staff.

Being punctual demonstrates respect for the team, your opponents, and the game itself. Players who consistently fail to arrive on time may face consequences, including reduced playing opportunities.

2. Timely Pick-Up After Matches and Practices

Parents are responsible for ensuring that their child is picked up on time after matches and practices.

• Coaches will remain at the course with players until they are picked up. However, it is crucial to respect the coaches’ time and obligations.

• If a parent anticipates being late due to an unavoidable delay, they must communicate this to the coaching staff immediately.

• Policy for Late Pick-Up:

  • If late pick-ups occur frequently, a meeting with the parent, player, and coaching staff will be scheduled to address the situation.

  • In cases where coaches have prior obligations and cannot stay, parents must arrange for an alternative adult to pick up their child.

3. Safety and Responsibility

The safety of every player is a priority.

• Coaches will never leave a player unattended at the golf course.

• Parents must understand that it is their responsibility to coordinate timely pick-ups to avoid inconveniencing the coaching staff or creating safety concerns for players.

By adhering to these policies, players will be well-prepared for competition, and parents can ensure the smooth operation of our practices and matches. These guidelines reinforce the values of punctuality, responsibility, and respect for the entire Cal High Golf family.

Coaches’ Role

As coaches, we have been entrusted with the opportunity to use golf as a vehicle to guide and support each of you in your journey to becoming better golfers, better students, and, most importantly, better individuals. Coaching is not just a role for us—it is a privilege and a responsibility that we honor deeply.

1. Commitment to Your Growth

   • We are dedicated to helping each of you grow not only in your skills as golfers but also in your character, discipline, and integrity as student-athletes.

   • Our mission is to assist you in developing habits and values that will serve you well on the course, in the classroom, and throughout life.

2. Integrity and Adherence to Rules

   • Coaches will abide by all rules and regulations set forth by governing bodies, including CIF, the school, and the team.

   • We will never compromise our integrity or break rules to enhance the program. Honesty and fairness are central to everything we do.

3. Modeling Excellence

   • Coaches will hold themselves to the highest standards in their words, actions, and decisions.

   • We will lead by example, demonstrating respect, discipline, and commitment to the values we teach.

4. Positive Reinforcement and Respect

   • Coaches will focus on building confidence through positive reinforcement and constructive feedback.

   • We will never belittle or demean any player. Instead, we will show respect and empathy, fostering an environment of trust and support.

5. Passion for Coaching and Players

   • We are passionate about coaching and deeply care about each player’s success and well-being.

   • Our goal is to inspire and motivate you to reach your full potential, both on and off the course.

6. Continuous Improvement

   • Just as we encourage you to grow, we are committed to becoming the best coaches we can be. We will seek opportunities to learn, adapt, and improve our coaching methods for the benefit of the team.

Together, as coaches and players, we will strive to create a program that reflects excellence, respect, and a shared love for the game of golf. We are here to support and guide you every step of the way.

Parents’ Role

As parents, you are vital members of the California High School Golf family. Your support, encouragement, and understanding are essential to the success and growth of our program. Together, we aim to create an environment where players thrive, values are upheld, and the pride of Cal High Golf is shared by all.

1. Respect and Support

   • Parents will respect the program, the school, the coaches, the players, and other parents at all times.

   • You are a cornerstone of support for the team, helping to maintain a positive and encouraging atmosphere that upholds the integrity and pride of the Cal High Golf program.

2. Defined Roles

   • Parents understand and accept the roles within the program:

     • Players are responsible for playing the game.

     • Coaches are responsible for coaching the players and managing the team.

     • Administrators are responsible for organizing and orchestrating matches and events.

   • Parents are encouraged to focus on being supportive mentors and cheerleaders for their children and the program.

3. Respect for Decisions

   • While parents may not always agree with every decision made by coaches or administrators, they are asked to trust and respect these decisions, knowing they are made with the best interests of the team in mind.

   • Open and respectful communication is welcomed if concerns arise, but all discussions should occur in a constructive manner.

4. Commitment to the Program

   • Parents will uphold the values of sportsmanship and respect, representing the Cal High Golf program with pride at all matches, tournaments, and events.

   • By maintaining a positive presence, parents contribute to an environment where players can grow, learn, and excel.

5. Fostering Team Spirit

   • Parents play a key role in fostering camaraderie within the team and the larger golf family. Encouraging all players, celebrating successes, and supporting others during challenges strengthens the program as a whole.

Together, as players, coaches, administrators, and parents, we are building something special. Your commitment to your role as parents ensures that our golf program not only succeeds on the course but also nurtures values that extend far beyond the game.

BY SIGNING THIS AGREEMENT, THE PLAYER AND PARENTS/GUARDIANS AGREE THAT WE HAVE READ THIS ENTIRE AGREEMENT AND AGREE TO ABIDE BY ALL PROVISIONS. 

Student Signature_______________________________________________________Date__________________

Parent Signature________________________________________________________Date_________________