Becoming a Professional Golfer: Paths Beyond University

Question
I am of the handicap of 0.3, how do i become a pro? Can i become a pro by qualifying for a pro tour? i dont want to go to uni, what other options are there to become a pro golfer?

Answer
David,

In truth, becoming a professional is a matter of declaring yourself so.  Of course, that might be like the tree falling in the forest.  If no one hears it, did it make a sound?

The United States Golf Association has some rules about how to remain an "amateur".  Another way to answer your question would be; when you violate one of their rules for amateur status, you become a professional.

A clear distinction of a golf professional versus an amateur is entering and competing in an event that is open only to pro golfers or if the event has a flight for pros and other flights for amateurs, enter as a pro.

It's actually quite easy to become a pro.  It's not so easy to go back to being an amateur, however, so be sure of your decision before you commit yourself to becoming a professional.

And while being a professional may be easy, being a successful professional is very, very difficult.  There is great competition.  You can Google professional mini-tours and learn about how to sign up to play in one of them.  That's good experience.  You will need to play in as many events as a professional as you can find.  The young players that are playing college golf are playing in a high level of competition and that will help prepare them for the tour.  If you choose to become a pro without that college competition, you just need to get it another way.

Good luck to you.  I hope I've answered your question.

Sincerely,

Paul Dolman