Page type: Glossary / definition
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Meaning
A Team Competition is a golf event in which players compete as individuals or sides for a team, with rounds or matches combined to produce an overall team result. It can use match play or stroke play, and the Committee sets how scores, points and ties are calculated.
How it matters in match play
In match play, a team event can combine the results of separate matches or sides rather than treating one player as the whole team. The Committee must state how many points a win or tie earns and how an overall tie is resolved. Team members must also follow any applicable advice restrictions and the published Terms of the Competition.
Table
| Quick reference | Detail |
|---|---|
| Term | Team Competition |
| Category | scoring |
| Applicable rule | Rules of Golf, Rule 24; Rules of Handicapping, Appendix C and Rules 6.1–6.2 |
| Related concepts | Team Match Play, Team Stroke Play, Four-Ball, Foursomes, Team Captain |
Worked example
In an illustrative four-player event, Alex and Ben win their side’s match 2 up and Chris and Dana lose 1 down; if the Terms award one point per match, their team finishes with 1 point, subject to the event’s stated tie procedure.
Rule reference: Rules of Golf, Rule 24; Rules of Handicapping, Appendix C and Rules 6.1–6.2
Sources: www.randa.org , www.randa.org , www.randa.org
Common questions
Is a Team Competition always match play?
No. Rule 24 covers team competitions played in either match play or stroke play. The Committee’s Terms of the Competition should identify the form of play and explain how the team result is calculated.
How are handicaps set in a Team Competition?
There is no single allowance for every team event. The Committee should specify the allowance in the Terms of the Competition, using the applicable WHS recommendation for the chosen format, such as four-ball or foursomes.
Can one round count for both a team and individual event?
Yes. Rule 24.1 says play in a team event may also form part of another competition held at the same time, such as individual stroke play. The Committee should publish the terms for each competition.
Who decides how a team tie is settled?
The Committee sets the tie procedure in the Terms of the Competition. It may state whether the event can finish tied or specify a method for deciding the result.
Does Team Competition name one fixed format?
No. It is a category of competition, not one universal scoring method. The event may use different team structures and scoring systems, so the published terms must explain the details.
Can a team have a captain?
Yes. Under Rule 24.3, a team may name a captain to make permitted team decisions, such as selecting partners or the order of play. The captain may also be a player.