How long is the NGHS Golf Season?
Golf is a Spring Sport in Georgia. Our season begins in mid-February until the State Championship in mid-May, about 3 months.
Are there tryouts?
Yes, every one tries out every Spring and MUST have an active physical on file with NGHS. Tryouts for former AND new, prospective players are held in mid-February. Cuts are usually completed by the 2nd day of tryouts and season practice begins.
I was on the team last year. Do I have to tryout again?
Yes. Past selection is NOT a guarantee that a player makes the team again. The BEST scores in tryouts are considered, so off-season practice is very important to keep your "spot" on the team.
Are the NG players selected at tryouts divided into different teams?
Yes. The top 6 boys and top 4 girls play in weekly matches. These 10 top players may rotate over time based on lowest score averages or through "play-in" matches/practice rounds. The lowest-stroke averages get the most playing time. At the end of the regular season, all match/practice round scores are averaged and the top 6 boys and top 4 girls continue on to areas.
Is there a JV Golf Team?
No. The County does not recognize JV Golf at this time, but North does field a few JV events during the season for additional competition.
If I want to be on the golf team, but have not played before, can I try out?
NG Golf is a competitive sport and we want to attract the best players in the school. Golf is not a club, but a "cut sport", composed of players who already know and play the game well. If you are an inexperienced player, it would be VERY beneficial to take lessons before trying out for the team in February. Contact Coach Bacile for local pros that have worked with our players.
Can I "Letter" in golf?
If you participate in ANY Varsity match, you will receive a chenille NGHS golf letter for the season at the banquet, even as a Freshman.
What is the practice schedule?
Both boys and girls practice Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, February thru May. Practice includes a rotation of range, putting, chipping or course play (no carts). The time may vary but usually is from 3:00 until 5:30 or 6:00. When daylight savings begins, we may start later and end later.
Can I play the Bear's Best course anytime after I make the team?
No. Range/short-game team practices are scheduled for certain days, along with certain days to be on the course. Chipping & putting areas are always open and free of charge. If you want to play the Bear's course another day, junior golfers may call the club to ask when the LAST tee time of the day is, and go out AFTER that time for a discounted rate. Because Bear's Best is a public course, ANYONE can book a tee time or purchase range balls/memberships, lessons or course packages outside NG Golf.
What if it's raining?
We practice & play, rain or shine, in most cases. And we play in the wind & cold, too, unless the course is closed or it is below 40º. Lightning is the only exception. Players receive texts regarding any changes in schedule and ALL info is on posted the website Home page. Check it often.
Are there any other requirements to be a part of NG Golf?
- Have a current physical on file with NGHS
- Attend practice every day
- Practice on your own before, during and after the season. It's a year-round sport.
- Provide your own transportation to and from practices and matches.
- Provide your own equipment (clubs, balls, shoes, etc.)
- Purchase the embroidered team golf bag to use throughout your year(s) on the team.
- Purchase AND wear NG uniforms in competition.
- Pay team dues and raise money to support the program.
What kind of uniform do we get?
Embroidered Nike or FootJoy gear...players get a combination of golf polos, hats/visors, pullovers, and/or jacket.
What is the competition schedule?
Golf schedules 12 varsity playing dates for the regular season. Our schedule is divided between local 9-hole duel matches and area 18-hole tournaments. The 9-hole matches are after school, Monday through Thursday against another school. Starting times and dates vary. The full-day, 18-hole tournaments are larger fields and held either on a Saturday or a day off from school. Area, Sectionals and State are full golf days and excused absences from school.
Is travel required? If so, how far?
Players are expected to provide transportation to practices and matches. It is common for players to ride together, with a coach or parent. For weekend 18-hole tournaments, we most always carpool with coaches or chaperones. Some years, the Boys travel to the Jekyll Island Golf Tournament, hosted by Glynn County Schools, at Pine Lakes GC. The Ladies travel overnight to play at Maple Ridge in Columbus. Sectionals and State Finals also require distant travel and overnight stays.
How much does an overnight tourney cost?
The Booster Club pays all entry fees, hotels and dinner(s). Players buy meals on the road.
Does the team play practice rounds prior to a Tournament?
If time and funds allow, the team may travel and play a course prior to the match. These absences are excused, but make-up work is the golfers responsibility.
Can spectators come to the matches?
Yes! All matches are FREE to attend. You may walk the course OR rent a cart for a fee from the club house. PLEASE refrain from coaching, talking to or interrupting the players during the round to avoid disqualification/penalties. It is advised that parents stay one shot ahead of their player to reduce distractions and help look for errant tee shots. Parents should stay on the cart path and not venture towards the green, fairway, etc...
Can I use a range finder?
Yes, but they CANNOT show slope during competitions. These devices run around $200, but are NOT required. Check with Coach Bacile to see if yours is legal. No cell phones, GPS devices on cell phones, cameras, or wrist watches are allowed on the course.
Am I required to spend time playing golf during the off-season?
In order to improve, golfers are expected to practice regularly year-round. There are no off-season requirements as a team, BUT obviously, the best time to play golf is when the weather is warm. Players are encouraged to play in junior tournaments (GSGA Junior Tour, NGJGA, AJGA, etc) or attend camps/clinics throughout the year. See GOLF SITES for membership links. FCA hosts a free "9-hole scramble league" in late Fall with Coach Bill Dando of FCA. Youth on Course is a great program to join that will help juniors with the cost of greens fees ($5 at selected courses)
What kind of costs are there if I am selected?
We are a 501(3)C non-profit organization. Our annual golf team activity fee is $750 (tax-deductible). The golf bag runs about $175 and is yours to keep and reuse year to year. ALL money received goes toward uniforms, travel, hotels, tournament entry fees, range balls, team snacks/drinks, clinics, banquet expenses & awards. We spend most every dime every year on the team.
Who is the golf coach/sponsor?
