No refunds, no exchanges

In the golf industry, we all have opportunities from time to time. Volunteering at a tournament is one of them. As a volunteer, you make certain sacrifices to participate.

• You sacrifice time with your family, employer and other responsibilities for an extended period.
• You donate countless hours to help make the event special.
• You incur monetary costs for travel, meals, housing, etc.

As a volunteer, you also have certain responsibilities:

• You are representing the event so your conduct should be above reproach.
• You have specific job tasks to complete to the best of your ability. It may be a patron’s only opportunity to enjoy this event.?
• You are at the beck and call of the organizers while on property.

As a volunteer, you occasionally receive additional benefits that might include uniforms, meals, housing, the opportunity to return to play the course at a later date, and the opportunity to receive or purchase tickets. As the purchaser of the ticket, the volunteer is ultimately responsible for how the recipient conducts themselves while in possession of the gift. This is where my story begins.

For many years, I have volunteered on the golf course crew for an annual tournament. It has been an honor and privilege to work behind the scenes for this tournament. It has allowed me to develop lifelong friendships with other volunteers from every walk of life. As a benefit for volunteering, I have had the opportunity to purchase tickets.

Volunteers

• If you choose to give away tournament tickets, make sure you know the recipient.
• Be absolutely confident that this individual will conduct themselves appropriately.
• Make sure they understand that if their plans change and they can’t attend, they must return the ticket to you.
• You are responsible for the whereabouts of the ticket at all times.
• You should never attempt to sell a ticket online or to a scalper.
• Should you decide to trade or sell your ticket to another volunteer, never sell for more than face value.

Recipients

• Respect the efforts that have been put forth so you can enjoy the event.
• Never transfer the ticket to anyone without contacting the provider. You should be aware that people are always watching.
• You are now part of an industry that promotes the enjoyment of golf. If you need money, ask for assistance. Don’t sell a ticket!

As a volunteer, I hope you realize how sensitive this type of issue can be and as a recipient of such a ticket I hope you realize your responsibilities and the repercussions that can come if you conduct yourself in a disrespectful or untrustworthy manner.