To: Island Chapter PGA Members
From: Executive Board Island Chapter PGA
Date: April 20, 2006
Re: “Player Card” Policy for 2006
OBJECTIVE:
To increase the level of participation in Island Chapter PGA events. Making our tournaments more marketable to sponsors and self-sufficient economically.
REASON FOR THE PROPOSAL
Upon completion of the 2005 Tournament season it is the opinion of this board that the participation for Island chapter events has been inadequate. Only Island Chapter PGA members in good standing and Island Chapter apprentices were allowed to play in chapter-sanctioned events. As a result, an average of 10 professionals participated in each event.
PROPOSED SOLUTION
The Player Card-Holder will pay his/her island chapter dues $100. This person will also pay $100 for the privilege of participating in the island chapter events. A per event fee of $50 will also be charged prior to each event. The Player Card-Holder will be eligible for all prize money in the events, which should be bolstered by the additional participation as well as for 2006 tournament overall champion, which may be a PGA member, apprentice, or “player card” holder. The Island Chapter will continue to recognize a “Points Champion” as its “Player of the Year”, which may only be a PGA member or apprentice.
The “Player Card” holder is required to attend a short meeting prior to participating in their first event. At that time they will pay their chapter dues and their “Player Card” fee. It will also be an opportunity for the chapter to speak to each individual about participating in the PGA/PGM apprentice program, and cover such details as cost, advantages, and scholarship opportunities the Island Chapter would offer anyone who completes a level of the program.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS OF IMPLEMENTATION
The financial benefits of adding the “Player Card” are significant. If 5 Player Card-Holders participate $250 will be added to the tournament purse. If 10 participate $500 will be added to the tournament purse. There will also be a financial advantage to the chapter to allow 3 more paying amateurs for each Player Card-Holder.
LIMITATIONS ON WHO MAY BECOME A “PLAYER CARD” HOLDER
Any professional golfer on the Island of Puerto Rico or the Virgin Islands may submit a letter to the Island Chapter from their employer stating that they work forty (40) hours per week at an Island Chapter recognized golf operation. Those who submit this paperwork must then be sponsored by a Class-A member of the Island Chapter. The Player Card paperwork must be submitted to the Island Chapter board 1 week before initial participation. The Island Chapter Board must unanimously approve any “Player Card” candidate, and either grant them “Player Card” membership eligible or deny their membership. “Player Card” membership is an annual status and must be renewed every calendar year. Only those who complete all three steps of the “Player Card” membership process will be eligible for participation. The board may revoke any “Player Card” holders playing privileges at any time.
SUMMARY
The “Player Card” is just one of the ways we will be able to grow the game of golf in Puerto Rico. Instead of a divided front when it comes to golf professionals in Puerto Rico, we can unite all professionals on the island for the gain of the Island Chapter. By creating a “Player Card” category, the participation in Island Chapter events will significantly increase. As a result, more chapter funds will be available to be allocated to initiatives, as well as added manpower for clinics and other events sponsored by the Island Chapter PGA, all of which will better promote golf and the PGA in Puerto Rico.
Thank You
Aaron West Seth Henrich BrianShaver
President Vice-President Secretary
