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By The Players, For the Players™

Member Manual

Last Updated: October 7th, 2025

GENERAL TOUR INFORMATION

MISSION STATEMENT

The Amateur Players Tour (APT) exists to create a tour-level experience for Amateur Golfers of all skill levels and backgrounds.  We accomplish this by providing unparallelled customer service, fair competition, the highest quality venues , and emphasize the camaraderie and friendship that goes together with life on Tour.

CORE VALUES

The APT is committed to its core values, and expects all Members to apply in all decisions, actions and comments related or pertaining to the Tour:

  • Community
  • Fairness
  • Sportsmanship
  • Respect
  • Integrity
  • Etiquette
  • Transparency
  • Inclusivity

GIVING BACK

The Amateur Players Tour is proud to partner with Folds of Honor, to raise awareness for their noble cause and help to fund scholarships for the families of our fallen and wounded military heroes and first responders. APT members have raised over $243,000 for Folds of Honor during the 2022-2025 seasons. Learn more about Folds of Honor Foundation at www.foldsofhonor.org. You can donate to Folds of Honor here: Folds of Honor Donations

MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION

MEMBERSHIP

The APT is open to amateur golfers of all skill levels over the age of 18.  As a member-based club, purchasing a membership is good for 365 days from the date of purchase and gives the member access to play in any tournament in the APT network at discounted member pricing. 

The Player Membership fee is $135 and includes numerous membership benefits from our national partners, a $50 credit to spend in the APT Pro Shop, entrance into a Local and a National Player of the Year Race, an APT Tournament Index, and more.  Players also have the option to become a Folds of Honor Partner for an additional $75, which is donated directly to Folds of Honor Foundation.

NOTE: Please allow up to 7 days for your pro shop credit to be added to your Digital Membership Card. You can download the digital membership card here.

MEMBERSHIP CANCELLATION POLICY

Membership Dues become non-refundable 30 days after purchase/renewal, or the member participates in an event within the current membership period.  All membership cancellations are subject to a $25 processing fee. Donations to Folds of Honor are non-refundable.

AUTO-RENEW MEMBERSHIPS

Members have the option to set their membership to auto-renew at their membership expiration date.  Players will also have the option to renew their membership early, which will extend their membership for an additional 365 days from their expiration date.  If a member wishes to opt-out of auto renew, they can do so in their member profile or by emailing support@aptgolf.org.

HOLE-IN-ONE CLUB

Hole-In-One Club Dues are $30 per season and paid on a season-by-season basis and are non-refundable. The current season runs from October 1, 2025 through the conclusion of the North American Championships (Open & Senior) in September of 2026.

Hole-In-One Club Members receive $500 for any hole-in-one made on tour, plus a choice of a Bushnell rangefinder or speaker, and commemorative plaque.  In addition, one par 3 at every tournament will be worth $2,500.

Prizes are awarded within 30 days of the hole in one and tax reporting guidelines will be followed, per the IRS.

Hole-In-One Club Membership can be purchased here. If you do not get a receipt for your transaction, please notify support@aptgolf.org immediately.

JUNIOR GOLFER WAIVER

Golfers under the age of 18 can still apply for membership to the Tour by requesting a waiver. Waivers can be requested by emailing handicaps@aptgolf.org. Junior Golfers must waive their right to any prize money or skins games prior to being allowed to compete in Amateur Players Tour Events.  It is solely the junior’s responsibility to understand the rules governing high school and college athletics as it relates to prizes.

TOUR FORMAT

FLIGHTED COMPETITION

The Amateur Players Tour offers 5 different divisions for players to compete in based on their skill level:

DivisionHandicap Range
Division 13.4 & Below
Division 23.5 – 8.4
Division 38.5 – 13.4
Division 413.5 – 18.4
Division 518.5 & Above

INITIAL DIVISION PLACEMENT

New players must fill out the APT Handicap Questionnaire which will be sent to them upon joining as a member. Also, a player may click the above link to access and complete it.  The APT Competition Committee, which is made up of APT Chapter Owners and current players will review the Handicap Questionnaire and place the new member in a division.

The Competition Committee will use all relevant data, including but not limited to:

  • USGA Handicap
  • Competition Scores
  • 12-month low of the USGA Handicap
  • Scores from other competitive organizations
  • Tees played during reviewed rounds
  • Answers from the APT Handicap Questionnaire

We ask that all players give an honest assessment of their current skill level, as new members who shoot out-of-division scores will be scrutinized to protect the integrity of the field. Any member may request relegation if their APT Tournament Index warrants it by filling out the Relegation Request Form. Please e-mail handicaps@aptgolf.org with any questions.  Strict measures will be in place to protect the integrity of the Tour.

TOURNAMENT FORMAT

The APT provides tournaments at the local level, with players competing in a Player of the Year Race in each division in their local chapter as well as a National Player of the Year Race.  Members have the opportunity to compete in National Majors, hosted at some of the top golf resorts around the country.  The season culminates at the North American Championship and Senior North American Championship, hosted in the fall at a location that moves around the country each season.  Players earn points in every event they play, regardless of what chapter they compete in.

A vast majority of our tournaments are individual flighted, stroke-play events that utilize gross scoring.  Other types of events available to APT members are Team Events, Stableford competitions, Match Play, etc. Please refer to the Tournament Information Page (TIP) on the event’s website for specific details pertaining to the individual event.

TOURNAMENT REGISTRATION

APT Members can register online via our website at aptgolf.org or through the Amateur Players Tour App. Any questions regarding a local tournament should be addressed to the Tournament Director found on the Tournament Information Page (TIP). If you need additional help, please email us at support@aptgolf.org.

Each event will be limited in the number of participants; therefore, entries will be granted on a first-come, first served basis. Some tournaments will sell out well in advance of the registration deadline, so please plan accordingly. It is the player’s responsibility to pay all entry fees before the required registration deadline. Tournament Entries include greens fees, cart fees, use of practice facilities, scoring, trophies, and prize pool unless otherwise noted on the TIP.

CURRENT SEASON SCHEDULE

2026 Tournament Schedule

TOURNAMENT CANCELLATION/NO SHOWS

Cancellation policies for each event are posted on the TIP. Withdrawal from any tournament must be done in accordance with the posted cancellation policy. Registered players who withdraw prior to the cancellation deadline will be subject to the posted cancellation fee.  After the established cancellation deadline, no refunds will be given for any reason.

Players can initiate a cancellation by logging into their BlueGolf profile and requesting cancellation. Video tutorial.

Players who no-call, no-show for tournaments will forfeit their entry fee and repeated actions may lead to suspension from registering for future events.

TOURNAMENT PRIZING

The winner of each division will receive a trophy, plaque, or other memento to commemorate the victory. The prize fund is based on the number of participants in each of the five divisions.  The following is the minimum prize payouts for each type of Tour Event:

  • Local/Elevated Events – $20/per player per round
  • National Majors, North American Championship, Senior North American Championship – $60/per player

All prizes will be paid out in accordance with the USGA® Rules of Amateur Status.

All payouts, unless otherwise posted, will be in Tour-Approved VISA Gift Cards. Players will have the option to select an APT Branded Physical Gift Card, a Digital VISA Gift Card, Tournament Credit, or a Worldwide Golf Shops Digital Gift Card with a 10% bonus offered through the APT’s Prize system.

Here is an explanation of all available prizing options.  Please note: All Awards will be completed between 24-48 hours after the event, as we do not pre-load prizes.

  1. APT Branded Physical VISA Gift Card – This can be used anywhere where VISA is accepted.  It is handed to you in an envelope with instructions on how to register your card with your address for security verification.  The card is published with the expiration date on it.  Please e-mail support@aptgolf.org if you have any issues.  Please note the terms and conditions that come with the card.
  2. Tremendous Digital VISA Gift Card – This prize is emailed to the email provided in your BlueGolf Account.  Please Note – Expiration on these cards is one year from the time of redemption and/or activation.  Players also have the option through this product to redeem their prizes at top retailers (i.e. Amazon, Starbucks, Delta Airlines, AirBNB, etc).
  3. APT Tournament Credit – Players have the option to take their winnings as Tournament Credit to be used towards future tournament entries.  Tournament Credit does not expire and carries over in the members account from year to year. Tournament credit cannot be converted to cash, a cash equivalent, a VISA Gift Card or other prize option. Tournament Credit will NOT be utilized for a previous transaction that is in processing, the main example being an upcoming balance payment for a previously registered event. Tournament Credit can only be used during the initial sign up for an event. Players will see Tournament Credit in their accounts when they go to register for future events.  Video Tutorial – How to View Your Tournament Credit
  4. WorldWide Golf Gift Card – Players have the option to take a Worldwide Golf Gift Card as their prize, with a 10% bonus being added not to exceed the $1,000 Max Prize.  Gift cards will be emailed to the player and can be used at any Worldwide Golf Location or e-commerce site.  Please visit worldwidegolfshops.com for a list of locations and brands.

NOTE – Once a gift card has been issued to a player, the player is solely liable to follow all cardholder requirements pertaining to registration of the card and any expiration dates.  While our staff will do our best to assist you, we assume no liability once a card is issued.d.

DOUBLE-DIP

Members will have the option to “double-dip” and compete in an additional contest.  Double-Dip just simply means you have the option to play in your division contest for prize pool, and double-dip by paying an additional fee (which a majority goes to the prize pool).  Each contest has a separate Player of the Year Contest on both the Local and the National levels and points can be earned wherever you play.  Here is an outline of the additional contests offered:

  • Mid-Am Net – Net Game for Players Under 50 on October 1, 2026
  • Senior Net – Net Game for Players Over 50 on October 1, 2026

NET GAMES EXPLAINED

We get it.  Everyone has played in a net game where an unvetted player has shot a ridiculous score to win.  However, when done right, net games provide unique opportunities for all players to be competitive, as they’re playing against their own handicap and improvement and great rounds are rewarded.  We’re working hard to change the perception of the net game, so here is how we do handicaps to ensure fairness for all players:

  • Validated Members (6 APT Rounds or more) get 90% of their APT Index.
  • Unvalidated Members get 90% of the 12-month low of their GHIN or APT Index, whichever is lower.
  • Members without a GHIN get 90% of the low end of their division.
  • Guests are not eligible to compete in Net Games.

TEE ASSIGNMENTS

Tip Tee Assignment Graphic New
Member Manual 2

FORWARD TEES

Members can request to play the forward tees if they turn 60 years of age on or before October 1, 2026.  The Forward Tees are subject to review and are not a right upon turning 60. They are designed to allow players to stay competitive longer, playing a set of tees that is more familiar and comfortable, and to level the playing field in multiple ways.

  • At the beginning of the season thru July 8th, eligible members may request to play the Forward Tee. Forward Tee Request Form  Requests will be considered at the weekly APT Competition Committee call currently held on Wednesdays.  The criteria for consideration include:
    • APT Tournament Index
    • USGA GHIN or Other Tour Tournament Index
    • Player Development Index (PDI) Assessment that includes
      • Physical Capabilities
      • Observed Driver Distance

FORWARD TEES – DIVISIONS 2-5

New Forward Tee Requests will not be granted if a player’s APT Index is within 1.5 strokes of the Division Line at the time of request.  Player’s history will be reviewed prior to granting the forward tee. Players that insist on playing the forward tee may do so but will be required to play in a lower handicap division. Example a D2 player currently playing the open tee with an index of 3.8 may play the forward tee but will be moved up to Division 1.

All New Forward Tee Players enter a Probationary Period and will be reviewed weekly by the Competition Committee for the first 6 rounds to ensure that division placement is appropriate. Playing the Forward Tee waives some of the protections of the Flight Flex (see Promotions section).

FORWARD TEES – DIVISION 1 PLAYERS

Approved Players are eligible to play the Forward Tee until their handicap reaches 0.0, at which time they will be moved to the open tee.

FORWARD TEES/LADIES TEES – HANDICAPPING

All divisions, regardless of tee played, are calculated using the Open Tee Slope/Rating for APT Tournament Index purposes only.  NOTE: The APT Tournament Index is not equivalent to a USGA Handicap.

SUPER SENIOR TEE (70+) – SENIOR NET ONLY

Members who are 70+ and struggle to compete at the Forward Tee Distance or want to play a shorter yardage may play the Super Senior Tee.  Players playing the Super Senior Tee are not eligible to compete in a division, but rather the Senior Net contest at each event.  Super Senior Tee players are eligible to compete in Super Skins.

Players may ask to change between the Super Senior and Division selection, by completing a division request change and being granted approval by the competition committee. Players will NOT be granted changes on the day of an event or be allowed to move on an event-by-event basis.

New members who do not have a validated APT index or a validated USGA Handicap will play at a 0.0 for the first 2 events.  The Competition Committee will determine the initial playing index for players who have a GHIN Handicap.

Super Senior Tee Request Form

TOURNAMENT POLICIES

CHECK-IN & STARTING

Players must be at their assigned starting hole no later than ten (10) minutes prior to their starting time.  It is customary for the players to arrive at the APT Registration area 30-60 minutes before their tee time to pay for side games, warm up, etc.

A player arriving at their starting hole at their starting time or up to five minutes late will incur the general penalty (2 strokes). Any player arriving five (5) or more minutes after their starting time will be disqualified.

PAIRINGS

APT Staff will notify all competitors of their assigned starting time at least thirty-six (36) hours prior to the start of the event. Pairings will be posted on the Amateur Players Tour App, Tournament Information Page, and be emailed/texted to the field. Please do not contact the Host Facility to inquire about tee times or pairings. All communication regarding the event should be directed to the Tournament Director listed on the Tournament Information Page or APT Staff on-site to handle the event.

SCORING

Paper scorecards will be official and used at every event. Players are solely responsible for ensuring that each hole has the correct score on it. At the conclusion of each round, players will review their hole-by-hole scores, and each scorecard must have the competitor’s signature and the marker’s signature. Once a player leaves the golf course and/or awards are presented, scores are final.

LIVE SCORING

We utilize the Amateur Players Tour App for live scoring at every event.  One player from each group must do the live score for the entire group.  Under no circumstances are scores in live scoring official as the paper card always is official.  Live Scoring is meant to add a fun and exciting element allowing players, friends and family to see the live leaderboard change as the round progresses. Download the App for Free

TIE BREAKERS

Weather, course availability and daylight permitting, all ties for 1st place in each Division will be broken by sudden-death playoff on the course. The Host Facility will determine which hole the sudden-death playoff is to begin with. If an on-course playoff for 1st is not available, a scorecard playoff according to USGA rules will be used to determine who wins the trophy, but points and purses will be split equally among the competitors. Ties beyond first place and points and purse will be split equally among the players tied. Net competitions will have a scorecard playoff for a trophy, with all points and purse being split evenly.

TRIPLE BOGEY MAX

Divisions 3, 4 & 5 will observe a triple bogey maximum on any hole. Once a competitor reaches triple bogey for the hole, including penalty strokes, they MUST pick up their ball and discontinue play on that hole.

EQUIPMENT

Per the USGA Rules of Golf, tournament competitors may not have more than fourteen (14) golf clubs in their bag during a tournament round. If a competitor has arrived at the first tee with more than fourteen (14) clubs and declares one to be out of play and removes it from his bag prior to hitting their first shot, there will be no penalty assessed so long as the competitor does not attempt any stroke with the removed club during the round. All clubs used in competition must comply with all current USGA Equipment Rules.

RANGE FINDERS

Range Finders, GPS Watches and Mobile Apps that utilize slope are authorized for use in APT Tournament Play.

NOTICE TO COMPETITORS/LOCAL RULES

Local Rules for the Day will be printed on the Notice to Competitors and included in the Rules Sheet given to players when they receive their official scorecards. Do not assume that a local rule used by the golf course will be in effect for tournament play. This includes drop zones, etc. If you have any question on the rules, play two balls and bring the question to the committee.

The Amateur Players Tour Hard Card has all the Local Rules that are always in effect at Amateur Players Tour sanctioned events.

A link to the 2025 APT Conditions of Competition is available on every TIP page.

SPECTATORS

Spectators are welcome at each tournament, noting that each course may have different policies that we abide by as guests of the host facility. Spectators are the responsibility of the associated player who is solely responsible for their proper golf etiquette and general decorum. If any issue(s) arise with their behavior or lack of proper golf etiquette, they will be asked to leave the premises. Golf carts are limited at each event to two carts per group and players always have priority use of a golf cart. Spectators should anticipate and expect to walk the course and stay a reasonable distance away from play as not to be a distraction. (i.e. walking on green, etc.) Spectators are under no circumstances allowed to give advice to the player. In the case where this happens, the player will be disqualified.  If spectator carts are available, spectators are responsible for any fees incurred for the rental of a spectator cart.

CADDIES

No personal caddies are allowed at APT Events. Caddies will only be allowed at specific golf courses where caddies are available to the entire field. Caddie availability will be provided (cost, etc.) prior to the competition.

INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY

All questions as to whether a Tour Event will be played, delayed or cancelled, should be directed to the Tournament Committee. Do not rely upon communication from the Host Facility staff regarding weather-related decisions. The Tournament Committee and the Host Facility staff will confer to reach a decision regarding beginning, delaying, or stopping play. That decision will be relayed to competitors via the Tour’s mobile application, email and/or text. Members should not assume that because it is raining or storming at their home that it is doing so at the Host Facility. If the Host Facility permits play, and the Tournament Committee determines that it is safe, play will go on.

Weather-related conditions may delay or suspend play such as:

  • Lightning
  • Weather Warnings
  • Course being deemed unplayable as determined by host facility

All practice facilities are closed during a suspension of play. Violation of this will result in immediate disqualification and potential additional disciplinary action from the Tour.

If there is a weather delay or suspension of play, every effort will be made by the Tournament Committee to complete the entire event. If weather causes a delay, all players should remain on property and await official announcements from the Tournament Committee. The Tour will communicate by either live announcement, text, or email whether and when play will resume.

As a last option, if a weather delay prevents a tournament from finishing, the following may result in an official tournament:

  • 18-hole events may be shortened to 9-holes or 9-holes plus the greatest number of common holes completed. If this isn’t possible, it may be rescheduled.
  • 36-hole events may become official and be shortened to an 18-hole tournament or 18-holes plus the most number of common holes completed.

While the Tour will do everything possible to complete an official and full event, there will be no refunds should inclement weather cause an event to be shortened unless the Host Facility provides a refund to the Tournament Committee. In the event where a tournament must be washed out and cannot be completed, all available refunds and optional cash games will be returned in the form of Tournament Credit.

OUT OF DIVISION SCORES – UNVALIDATED PLAYERS

In the interest of protecting the integrity of any Tour Event, the APT Competition Committee shall have the discretion to act during a Tour Event to disqualify an unvalidated player if he/she posts a single round score that is:

  • More than three (3) strokes below their division cut off (based on course index adjustment for course slope and rating); OR
  • More than three (3) strokes below their closest competitor within the division; OR
  • Information showing the player is competing in the wrong division comes to our attention.

The Competition Committee will take into consideration the playing history on the APT, the validity of the data provided when the Member signed up, and any other relevant data that can be found on the Member.   The goal is to protect the integrity of the competition, meaning that truly exceptional scores should be celebrated while protecting the field from unvalidated players.

GUEST POLICY

The Amateur Players Tour prides itself on being a member-driven organization.  As the integrity of our competitions require the use of our Tournament Index, membership is a key part of the APT experience. We want to extend a limited guest status to those who have not played with us before, we are not intending our guest policy to be a way to play our events while avoiding the membership commitment.

Guests may play in up to two events in their lifetime. After the 2nd event the guest must apply for membership to the Tour before he or she will be permitted to register for any additional Tour Events. Former members are not eligible to play as a guest. The purpose of the guest policy is for you to see if you like the tour, not avoid the membership fee and creating and tracking of your APT Tournament Index.

All prize payouts to guests will be in the form of tournament credit, with the first portion going towards membership.  Guests who do not have an adequate playing history with another organization are limited to winning their membership ($135).  Guests who do not have a USGA Handicap OR fail to complete the Handicap Questionnaire will be ineligible to receive any prize winnings but may participate in optional skins game. Bottom line, the most you can win as a guest is the membership fee of $135 unless you have prior playing history with another organization and have been approved by the competition committee as being eligible for additional winnings.

Even with the above-mentioned approval, any guest regardless of the information provided that shoots a round below the division cutoff line will not be allowed to win any prize money and removed from the division field.Guests are not eligible to participate in the optional double-dip net games.

DIVISION PLACEMENT

APT TOURNAMENT INDEX

Once a member starts playing on the APT, division placement transitions to using only a members tournament scores with APT after he/she is validated (6 or more APT Tournament Rounds). The APT Tournament Index is not equivalent to a USGA Handicap and should not be viewed as such. The Tournament Index’s sole purpose is to divide members into divisions where players can compete against players of their own skill level and to promote fair play on Tour.

We look at unvalidated players differently than validated players.  APT players earn validation once they post their 6th tournament score to their APT index.  Validated players have more protection from scrutiny than unvalidated players.

VALIDATING YOUR TOURNAMENT INDEX

A members tournament index will become validated after they post their 6th score to their tournament index. If a member’s tournament index is validated, their APT Tournament Index will be the primary factor used in Division Placement, as long as the members scores are current (see exceptions below.)  Validated players are exempt from Disqualification based on out of division scores.

UNVALIDATED TOURNAMENT INDEXES

Before a tour member’s index is validated, the APT Competition Committee will use any relevant data available to ensure that a member is in the correct division. The APT Competition Committee will have sole discretion to move a member up or down before a member’s Tournament Index is validated.

CALCULATING YOUR APT TOURNAMENT INDEX

The APT Tournament Index will be calculated based on the Adjusted Gross Score of the 20 most recent Tour Event rounds using our unique performance-based formula.  The following table will be used to determine the players Tournament Index:

# OF TOUR EVENT SCORES# OF EVENT SCORES USED
11
21
32
42
53
63
74
84
95
105
116
126
137
147
158
168
179
189
1910
2010

ADJUSTED GROSS SCORES FOR HANDICAP PURPOSES

Adjusted Gross Score simply means that Equitable Stroke Control is in place for tournament rounds.  Once a player has an APT Tournament Index, the highest score they can take on a hole for tournament index purposes is net double bogey.  During an APT members first round, the highest score they can take for handicap posting purposes is par +3.

APT COMPETITION COMMITTEE

The chairman of the APT Competition Committee is Matt Fegley. The Competition Committee is made up of 3 Chapter Owners and multiple player Representatives. If a player has a question for the Competition Committee, please e-mail handicaps@aptgolf.org.

The Competition Committee oversees handicaps, rules and member discipline.

NOTE – The APT Competition Committee reserves the right to move any player for any reason at any time in the interest of protecting the integrity of the competition.

HANDICAP POLICIES TO PROTECT THE FIELD

PROBATIONARY PERIOD

Anytime a member relegates, moves from the open tee to the forward tee in their division, moves from the super senior tee to a forward tee in their division, or has an exception granted to them based on injury, health or recent data bias, the member enters a probationary period of no more than 6 rounds. During that time, the member’s recent scores will be tracked, and the Competition Committee has the right to reverse their decision based on current data.

EXCEPTIONAL ROUND PROMOTION

If a member shoots a round that is 2 Divisions below their current division range, the APT Competition Committee may classify the member into the next division.  For example, if a player is in Division 4 (13.5-18.4) and shoots a round differential that is a 6.0 (Division 2 range), that member may be moved to Division 3 based upon the exceptional round.

TOURNAMENT INDEX REVIEW

If a member fails to post a score within the last 60 days, the Handicap Committee reserves the right to review that members APT Tournament Index, using more recent data (USGA Handicap, Other Tournament Playing History, etc.) to place the member in the proper division based on their recent playing history (up or down).

RECENT DATA BIAS

If recent data provides a clear distinction in a player’s ability either up or down, the Competition Committee reserves the right to only look at the last 18 months or less of a member’s playing history in reviewing their APT Tournament Index and Division Placement.

DIVISION MOVEMENT – PROMOTIONS

Upon promotion, Validated Members will earn exemptions into this season’s North American Championship/Senior North American Championship and next year’s Signature Majors. The member also will retain 100% of their points when they move to their new division. For validated players, promotions are not necessarily immediate as members can earn flexibility in one of two ways: Season-Long Flight Flex and Frequent Player Provisions.

SEASON-LONG FLIGHT FLEX

MEMBERS WITH COMPLETE APT TOURNAMENT INDEX (20 OR MORE SCORES POSTED WITH 10 COMING IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS)

Members with a complete APT Tournament Index have the benefit of a Flight Flex, which allows members who do not go more than 0.5 below their division index line to avoid an immediate promotion but instead initiate a 4-week review process.  In that review process, one of three things will happen:

  1. Member’s APT Tournament Index goes below the 0.5 threshold, triggering an immediate promotion.
  2. Member’s APT Tournament Index returns to being above the division threshold, and the member stays in their current division.
  3. Member’s APT Tournament Index remains below the division threshold, at the end of the 4-week review period, the member earns a promotion at that time.

VALIDATED MEMBERS

Validated Members who do not meet the requirements above also benefit from the season-long flight flex, but they are only allowed to go no more than 0.2 below their division index line to avoid an immediate promotion and initiate the 4-week review process as outlined above.

UNVALIDATED MEMBERS

Unvalidated Members who have yet to post 6 competitive rounds on the APT will be promoted immediately once their APT Tournament Index breaks the division threshold.

NOTE – All players who finish a season below the division threshold will be promoted to start the next season.

FREQUENT PLAYER PROVISIONS

Players are eligible for a flight flex based on how many rounds they have completed during the current season.  This flight flex applies through the North American Championships.

Tier 1 – 10 or more rounds in current season

Members who have completed 10 or more rounds earn a 0.5 flight flex.

Tier 2 – 15 or more rounds in current season & complete APT Index

Members who have completed 15 or more rounds earn a 1 shot flight flex.

Tier 3 – 20 or more rounds in current season which is a complete APT Index

Members who have completed 20 or more rounds earn a 1 shot flight flex and if the player goes more than 1 shot below, the APT Competition Committee will run their Total Season Tournament Index. The Total Season Tournament Index is calculated by taking 50% of all rounds played in the current season. If that number keeps them in their current division (i.e. a Division 3 player is between 8.5-13.4), the player will stay in their division.

NOTE – Any player needing to utilize the Tier 2 or Tier 3 Provisions will be promoted at the conclusion of the North American Championships to start the following season regardless of what their Tournament Index is at that time.

TEE NOTE – Any player playing the Forward Tee is not eligible for the Frequent Player Provisions.

EXCEPTIONS

Any player utilizing a Flight Flex is entering into a “gray area” and will be subject to scrutiny. The purpose is to create opportunity for players to finish a season in their current division – strict measures will be in place to protect the integrity of APT Competitions. Players may not be eligible for any Flight Flex if they meet any or all the following criteria:

  • Have relegated in the past
  • Have been in Tier 2 or Tier 3 of the Frequent Player Provisions in the same division in the previous 2 seasons.
  • Have chosen to play the Forward Tee.
  • Have another handicap (USGA or Tournament Index) that is significantly below the Division Line
  • Have a significant layoff between tournament rounds.
  • Events Won or Exceptional Rounds
  • Recent Data Bias
  • Any data that suggests a promotion is warranted.

NOTE – The Competition Committee may promote a forward tee player to the open tee.

LOCAL FINALS MOVEMENT

Unless players fall under the exceptions noted for the flight flex above, there will be no movement between the local finals and the North American Championships.

CHAMPIONSHIP PERFORMANCE

Players in the North American Championship, Senior North American Championship, or Local Finals who demonstrate performance with scores that fall consistently below the division range may be promoted for the start of the next season.  Championship performance may also require a player to be moved from the forward tee to the open tee.

DIVISION MOVEMENT – RELEGATIONS

All requests must be submitted through the Relegation Request Form.  No other form of request will be accepted. Please address all questions to handicaps@aptgolf.org. The APT Competition Committee will communicate their decision after their weekly meeting that currently occurs weekly on Wednesdays.

A validated player whose APT Tournament Index goes 0.5 below the Division cutoff line may only be relegated once per season.

The Competition Committee may place stipulations on an approved relegation.  For example, playing the open tee in new division, completing 3 rounds in new division prior to being accepted into the North American Championship, etc.  All of these will be done in the spirit of protecting the integrity of APT Competitions.

POINTS/PLAYER OF THE YEAR

In each chapter, members will be competing for a Local Player of the Year prize in each division. The Player of the Year race awards points based on a members finish in each event. Each chapter provides an award for winning your Local Player of the Year, plus players also earn a ranking that gives them exemptions to register for Signature Majors and to earn a spot in the North American Championship and Senior North American Championship. This includes all Player of the Year contests where points are awarded.

Player of the Year points are awarded based on the number of contestants in each division. For example, you can earn more points by beating 20 people in your division than you can if there are only 8 people in your division.

Points will be given the following multiplier based on the type of event:

  • One-Day Events – 1x
  • Elevated Event/Majors – 2x
  • Local Finals/North American Championship – 2.5x

Here is an example of the points matrix for a Local Event:


1234567891011121314
115












2255











330105










4351555









537.517.51055








6402012.57.555







742.522.51510555






8452517.512.55555





946261813.511.55555




104727191512.59.55555



1147.527.519.515.51310.597.5555


1248282016.5141210.58.57.5555

1348.528.520.517.5151311.5108.57555
1449292118161412119.58.57555

PLAYER OF THE YEAR CONTESTS

There will be a Player of the Year Award in each Chapter plus a National Player of the Year Award awarded in the following contests:

  • Division 1
  • Division 2
  • Division 3
  • Division 4
  • Division 5
  • Mid-Am Net
  • Senior Net

LOCAL PLAYER OF THE YEAR CALCULATION

Local Player of the Year Races will be determined as follows:

  • One-Day Events – Best 8 finishes
  • Elevated Events/Majors – Best 2 finishes
  • Your Chapter’s Local Finals

LOCAL PLAYER OF THE YEAR REQUIREMENTS

Event Requirement – A player who does not play at least 5 local events in their local chapter MAY NOT be eligible to win their local chapter’s Player of the Year race.

Players can only earn Local Player of the Year Points in their chapter’s Local Finals. Players can earn National Player of the Year points at any Local Finals.

Local Finals – Local Finals may be restricted to only members of the local chapter(s) that are hosting the local finals.

NATIONAL PLAYER OF THE YEAR

The Worldwide Golf National Player of the Year race is a season-long points race, with more weight being applied to larger events to measure how players fare against members from other chapters. The National Player of the Year Race will be calculated by calculating the best of:

  • Ten (10) One-Day Events
  • Two (2) Elevated Events
  • Three (3) National Majors
  • One (1) Local Finals
  • North American Championship

NATIONAL PLAYER OF THE YEAR NOTES

A member cannot win two National Player of the Year awards in the same season.  If this happens, the Division contest will take priority and the Net contest will be awarded to the member finishing in 2nd place.

POINTS MOVEMENT BETWEEN DIVISIONS

Upon Promotion – A member keeps 100% of his/her points in his current division AND takes 100% of his/her points to the new division.  If the player has earned enough points in their old division to be declared “Player of the Year”, then they will earn that award in their old division.

Upon Relegation – There is no points movement downward as points do not transfer from a more competitive division to a less competitive division.Note – If a player wins two divisional contests, they will win the award in which they played the majority of the season.  The other division will be awarded to the 2nd place finisher.

DIFFICULTY MULTIPLIER

Recognizing the variance in difficulty between divisional competition based on yardage and level of competition, the Tour will add a difficulty multiplier to each division contest. Because of this, players moving to a more competitive division will keep 100% of their points. The Tour has developed a proprietary algorithm using a data driven approach to consider the tee box changes and competitive playing level of moving to a different division. Net contests will be awarded at the “Division 5” Difficulty Multiplier.  The division multiplier added to the points matrix will be as follows:

  • Division 1 – 10x
  • Division 2 – 5.75x
  • Division 3 – 3.6x
  • Division 4 – 1.75x
  • Division 5 – 1x

TOUR RULES

CODE OF CONDUCT

DRESS CODE

Members and Guests are expected to dress in a manner to present a positive public image of the Tour with a constant effort to positively reflect the Tour in all respects both on and off the golf course and at any Tour Event. Members are expected to dress appropriately for golf while on the golf course. Collared shirts, including blade or mock collars, are required. No jeans, denim or cutoff shorts of any kind will be permitted. Any printed language, slogans, or logos should reflect positively on the Tour and its Members.  Other requirements may be added by the host facility.  Please see the TIP page for specific dress-code requirements.

PLAYER CONDUCT

Members and/or their guests shall always conduct themselves in a professional and responsible manner consistent with the spirit of the game of golf. The Amateur Players Tour reserves the right to disqualify any player for unbecoming conduct which includes incidents and/or actions that are detrimental to the Tour, host facility, staff members, sponsors, or fellow players, all of which may be grounds for suspension or even expulsion, without a refund, from the Tour. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Excessive Displays of Anger
  • Willful Damage to the Golf Course or Golf Course Property
  • Potential Endangerment of Others
  • Offensive or Unbecoming Language
  • Fighting
  • Illegal Drug Use
  • Alcohol Abuse
  • Verbal Abuse of APT Staff, Tour Partners, Players, Guests, or Host Facility Staff
  • Public Criticism of Host Course, the Tour, its staff or Chapter Owners, partners and sponsors, to include social media
  • Attempted Use of Chargebacks to circumvent cancellation policies
  • Disrespectful Actions to APT Staff, Tour Partners, Players, Guests, or Host Facility Staff
  • Manipulation of scores posted for Handicap purposes

PLAYER DISCIPLINE

If a serious breach of the Code of Conduct policy occurs, sanctions against the member are the next step. The Tour reserves the right to issue suspensions and/or expulsions depending on the severity and frequency of the offense. If the Tour hands out disciplinary action for a violation of the Code of Conduct, no refunds will be issued to the player.

FINANCIAL POLICIES

TOURNAMENT CREDIT

APT Members may elect to take tournament credit as part of their prize winnings or earn tour credit for promotions, etc. throughout the course of the season. Tournament Credit goes into a players account and can be used for future tournament entries. Currently, it cannot be redeemed for membership, and it cannot be applied to a registration that has already occurred. Tournament Credit does not expire and carries over in the members account from year to year. Tournament credit cannot be converted to cash, a cash equivalent, or a VISA Gift Card.

GIFT CARD LIABILITY

Once a gift card has been issued to a player, the player is solely liable to follow all cardholder requirements pertaining to registration of the card and any expiration dates.  While our staff will do our best to assist you, we assume no liability once a card is issued.

OWNERSHIP

The Amateur Players Tour name and all intellectual property, including but not limited to registered trademarks, patents, and/or trade secrets, are owned by APT Holdings, LLC, a Tennessee Limited Liability Company. The Amateur Players Tour is operated by APT Events, LLC, a Tennessee Limited Liability Company.

INDEMNIFICATION AND HOLD HARMLESS

Any Member, Guest or other person who, in any manner, makes use of or accepts the use of any web application, software, apparatus, appliance, facility, privilege or service whatsoever owned, leased, licensed to, or operated by the Tour, any Local Chapter Owner, or by any Host Facility, shall do so at his or her own risk. Members and their guests shall hold the Company, the Tour, Local Chapter Owner, any manager or operator of the Host Facility, their affiliates, their successors and assigns and their respective shareholders, partners, directors, officers, members, employees, representatives, and agents (collectively, the “Indemnified Parties”) harmless from any and all loss, cost, claim of injury, damage or liability sustained or incurred by him or her, resulting from the participation in Tour Events or the use of Host Facility’s property, arising out of or incident to membership in the Tour and/or from any act or omission of any of the Indemnified Parties, unless caused by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of any of the Indemnified Parties. Any Member shall have, shall owe and shall observe the same obligation to the Indemnified Parties hereunder in respect to any such loss, cost, claim, injury, damage or liability sustained or incurred by any guest or family member guest.

PHOTO RELEASE FOR ADVERTISING/MARKETING

Membership, or registration as a guest for entry into any Amateur Players Tour Event, includes an express waiver and consent to the use of each Member’s and/or competitor’s name, image and/or likeness by APT Holdings, LLC, it’s subsidiaries and/or assigns, for purposes of promoting, marketing, reporting, or otherwise advertising the Amateur Players Tour, its events, chapters, website, etc. Said name, image, likeness may be used in all forms of media, including but not limited to the tour’s website, social media channels, digital marketing, print marketing materials, etc. By joining the Tour or registering for any Tour Event, each player expressly waives any right to compensation or control of the use of their name, image, or likeness by APT Holdings, its subsidiaries or assigns.

APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP

Membership in the Tour is limited to amateur golfers only. Members must be able to provide proof of amateur status from the USGA, upon request to be eligible to compete in Tour Events. Former professional players may be eligible for membership and eligible to compete in Tour Events only upon receipt of official reinstatement of Amateur Status from the USGA or other comparable governing body.

All fields on the membership application must be completely and accurately filled out to be considered for admission. Admission may be denied for any reason and the Tour shall not be required to disclose any reason for denial of admission.

Individual player information will not be sold by the Tour. However, collective demographic data may be used to promote the Tour and/or acquire promotional opportunities with equipment and accessory manufacturers, or other industry providers, for the benefit of the Members and the Tour.

CHAMPIONSHIPS

NORTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIP

APT members from every chapter across the country will come together with the goal to earn the title of North American Champion in their respective division. The North American Championship is the premier 54-hole event on the Amateur Players Tour schedule and moves to various locations around the country. The 2026 North American Championship will be contested from September 18th-20th at the top-rated We-Ko-Pa resort in Scottsdale, Arizona.

ELIGIBILITY

The 2026 Season will run from October 1st, 2025 thru September 23rd, 2026. A tournament round is defined as a posted 18-hole tournament score on Tour during the 2026 season. Division 1 Players: Three (3) total rounds must be completed during the 2026 season. All other Divisions: Six (6) total rounds must be completed during the 2026 season and 2 rounds after July 9th.  Any players not meeting these requirements will be reviewed by the APT Competition Committee on a case-by-case basis (i.e. injury, mid-season signups, etc.) and if accepted, may be required to play up a division to protect the integrity of the field.

PRIORITY EXEMPTION QUALIFICATION

Players will be given priority exemption based on their accomplishments in the 2026 season or preceding seasons. Priority Exempt Players can register early beginning July 9th, and priority will be given in the following order:

  • A-1. Past Champions of North American Championship and Senior North American Championship
  • A-2. Past Winners of National Player of the Year/Senior National Player of the Year
  • A-3. Top five (5) and ties in every division from the 2025 North American Championship and Top (3) and ties in every division from the 2025 Senior North American Championship
  • A-4. Winner of Last Season’s Local Player of the Year in Every Division
  • A-5. Winner of National Major (last 2 years)
  • A-6 Top three (3) and ties in every division in 2026 National Majors
  • A-7. 2026 Season Top 100 in National Player of the Year Races as of July 8th, 2026.
  • A-8. Local Player of the Year Standings as of July 8th, 2026.
    • Tier 1 Chapters – Top 4 Finishers in Each Division, Mid-Am Net/Senior Net Top 8 Finishers
    • Tier 2 Chapters – Top 6 Finishers in Each Division, Mid-Am Net/Senior Net Top 10 Finishers
    • Tier 3 Chapters – Top 8 Finishers in Each Division, Mid-Am Net/Senior Net Top 12 Finishers
    • Tier 4 Chapters – Top 12 Finishers in Each Division, Mid-Am Net/Senior Net Top 15 Finishers
  • A-9. Any validated player who earns a promotion during the 2026 season in their promoted division. Players with previous relegation do not qualify for this exemption.
  • A-10. Special invitations determined by Tour.

*NOTE* – Priority Exempt Players must also be eligible prior to their registration being accepted for the North American Championship.

OPEN REGISTRATION PROCESS

For players not otherwise earning a priority exemption, open registration will begin on July 30th, 2026. On July 30th, all APT members who are eligible, meaning they have completed the round requirement outlined above, will be able to register for the North American Championship on a first come, first-served basis. Players are encouraged to apply early, and members must be in good-standing.

SENIOR NORTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIP

APT members from every chapter across the country will come together with the goal to earn the title of Senior North American Champion in their respective division. The Senior North American Championship is the premier 36-hole event on the Amateur Players Tour schedule for members 50 and over with the location slated to move each year. The 2026 Senior North American Championship will be contested from September 22nd-23rd, 2026 in Scottsdale, Arizona.

ELIGIBILITY

Member must be at least 50 years old on or before October 1st, 2026.

The 2026 Season will run from October 1st, 2025 thru September 23rd, 2026. A tournament round is defined as a posted 18-hole tournament score on Tour during the 2026 season. Division 1 Players: Three (3) total rounds must be completed during the 2026 season. All other Divisions: Six (6) total rounds must be completed during the 2026 season and 2 rounds after July 9th.  Any players not meeting these requirements will be reviewed by the APT Competition Committee on a case-by-case basis (i.e. injury, mid-season signups, etc.) and may be required to play up a division to protect the integrity of the field.

PRIORITY EXEMPTION QUALIFICATION

Players will be given priority exemption based on their accomplishments in the 2026 season or preceding seasons. Priority Exempt Players can register early beginning July 9th, and priority will be given in the following order:

  • A-1. Past Champions of North American Championship and Senior North American Championship
  • A-2. Past Winners of National Player of the Year/Senior National Player of the Year
  • A-3. Top five (5) and ties in every division from the 2025 North American Championship and Top (3) and ties in every division from the 2025 Senior North American Championship
  • A-4. Winner of Last Season’s Local Player of the Year in Every Division
  • A-5. Winner of National Major (last 2 years)
  • A-6 Top three (3) and ties in every division in 2026 National Majors
  • A-7. 2026 Season Top 100 in National Player of the Year Races as of July 8th, 2026.
  • A-8. Local Player of the Year Standings as of July 8th, 2026.
    • Tier 1 Chapters – Top 4 Finishers in Each Division, Mid-Am Net/Senior Net Top 8 Finishers
    • Tier 2 Chapters – Top 6 Finishers in Each Division, Mid/Am Net/Senior Net Top 10 Finishers
    • Tier 3 Chapters – Top 8 Finishers in Each Division, Mid-Am Net/Senior Net Top 12 Finishers
    • Tier 4 Chapters – Top 12 Finishers in Each Division, Mid-Am Net/Senior Net Top 15 Finishers
  • A-9. Any validated player who earns a promotion during the 2026 season in their promoted division. Players with previous relegation do not qualify for this exemption.
  • A-10. Special invitations determined by Tour.

*NOTE* – Priority Exempt Players must also be eligible prior to their registration being accepted for the North American Championship.

OPEN REGISTRATION PROCESS

For players not otherwise earning a priority exemption, open registration will begin on July 30th, 2026. On July 30th, all APT members who are eligible, meaning they have completed the round requirement outlined above, will be able to register for the North American Championship on a first come, first-served basis. Players are encouraged to apply early, and members must be in good-standing.

CHAMPIONSHIP PARTICIPATION

Members are able to participate in all championships they are eligible for, meaning a member can register and compete in both the North American Championship and the Senior North American Championship.

PRIORITY EXEMPTIONS

CHAPTER TIERS

For the purpose of granting priority exemption spots equitably, the Tour has split all Local Chapters into 4 tiers based on the overall tour size. When issuing invites and priority exemptions, the local chapter will fall under the tier size of last year’s membership OR current membership numbers as of the day the invitations are sent, whichever is HIGHER.

Tier 1 – Chapters with 109 members or less

  • Top 4 finishers in each open division
  • Top 8 finishers in senior net (if applicable)

Tier 2 – Chapters between 110-174 members

  • Top 6 finishers in each open division
  • Top 10 finishers in senior net (if applicable)

Tier 3 – Chapters between 175-249 members

  • Top 8 finishers in each open division
  • Top 12 finishers in senior net (if applicable)

Tier 4 – Chapters 250 members and up

  • Top 12 finishers in each open division
  • Top 14 finishers in senior net (if applicable)

SIGNATURE MAJOR PRIORITY EXEMPTIONS

The Amateur Players Tour will conduct “Signature Majors” during the 2026 season at some of the top golf resorts in the country. To ensure the best and most competitive fields for these signature events and to reward stellar play, these majors will have priority registration based on player’s accomplishments. Once the priority exemption period has ended, registration will open to all APT members. The current signature majors are:

  • February 6th-8th – The Conflict at Kiawah
  • May 23rd-25th  – The APT Players Championship at PGA National
  • August 2nd-3rd  – The Double-Down at French Lick Resort

Exemptions to pre-register will be given to players based on the following priority:

  • A-1. Past Champions of North American Championship and Senior North American Championship
  • A-2. Past Winners of National Player of the Year/Senior National Player of the Year
  • A-3. Top five (5) and ties in every division from the 2025 North American Championship and Top (3) and ties in every division from the 2025 Senior North American Championship
  • A-4. Winner of Last Season’s Local Player of the Year in Every Division
  • A-5. Winner of National Major (last 2 years)
  • A-6. Top three (3) and ties in every division in 2025 National Majors
  • A-7. Final 2025 Season Top 100 in National Player of the Year Races and Final 2025 Season Top 50 in Senior National Player of the Year Races.
  • A-8. Final 2025 Local Player of the Year Standings.
    • Tier 1 Chapters – Top 4 Finishers in Each Division, Top 2 Seniors, Senior Net Top 8 Finishers
    • Tier 2 Chapters – Top 6 Finishers in Each Division, Top 3 Seniors, Senior Net Top 10 Finishers
    • Tier 3 Chapters – Top 8 Finishers in Each Division, Top 4 Seniors, Senior Net Top 12 Finishers
    • Tier 4 Chapters – Top 12 Finishers in Each Division, Top 5 Seniors, Senior Net Top 15 Finishers
  • A-9. Any validated player who earned a promotion during the 2025 season in their promoted division. Players with previous relegation do not qualify for this exemption.
  • A-10. Special invitations determined by Tour.

Priority Exemption Order

  • Week 1 (2 weeks before open registration) – A-1 thru A-6.
  • Week 2 (1 week before open registration) – A-7 thru A-10.
  • Week 3 – Open Registration for all APT members who will have completed at least 3 events prior to the event.