The PGA of America and AJGA are excited to announce that, effective immediately, scores from the first two individual stroke play competition rounds of an AJGA administered event that meet the minimum yardage qualifications for PAT’s may be used to satisfy the 36-hole PGA Playing Ability Test requirement.
“This change to qualification for the PAT is going to create some positive momentum in the golf industry,” said AJGA Chief Business Officer Jason Etzen. “The potential to bring in people who otherwise might not have considered a career in the golf industry is incredible, and we are proud to be able aid in that effort.”
The American Junior Golf Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the overall growth and development of young men and women who aspire to earn college golf scholarships through competitive junior golf. AJGA alumni include Rickie Fowler, Sergio Garcia, Dustin Johnson, Phil Mickelson, Patrick Reed, Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, Tiger Woods, Paula Creamer, Ariya Jutanugarn, Cristie Kerr, Stacy Lewis, Brittany Lincicome, Anna Nordqvist, Inbee Park and Lexi Thompson.
Provided the individual was age 16 or over at the time of participation, the Playing Ability Test validity would extend eight years past the date of passing, giving AJGA members the opportunity to take advantage beyond their college years. Applicants will be responsible for submitting documentation of scores, yardage and course rating to verify Playing Ability Test eligibility, and all PGA minimum standards for the Playing Ability Test must be met. Events must be at least 36-holes to qualify, and rounds cannot be combined from separate events.
Scores from the first two individual stroke play competition rounds of a PGA Qualified Professional Tour golf tournament, collegiate golf tournament (Division I, II, III, NAIA, NCCGA and Junior College), PGA National or Section Professional or Amateur Event, a State Open, State Amateur and State High School Championship and 36-hole qualifiers administered by the United States Golf Association or R&A will also count towards satisfying the 36-hole PGA Playing Ability Test requirement.
For more information on this and how it can lead to a career in the golf industry please reach out to the PGA of America Recruitment Team at recruiting@pga.com .