Preliminary considerations:  

• Before play begins from the first tee, determine from the Referee via the radio the type of ball and markings used by the players.  

• Assist the Referee in any way requested.  

• Notify the Referee if a Rules infraction is observed.  

• Communicate only with the Referee and let the Referee communicate directly with the players.  

Principle duties of an Observer:  

• Know the location of the players’ balls at all times. If any balls would be difficult for the players to find or is outside the roped, remain at the location of the ball(s) until the player(s), their caddies or a forecaddie arrives.  

• Coordinate ball location efforts with forecaddies or marshals, if available.  

• If both balls are in difficult areas, be available if the Referee might want you to assist with one of the players and wait until both situations are resolved.  

• Notify the Referee as soon as possible over the radio of potential rulings (e.g., possible interference with sprinkler head, embedded ball, ball in penalty area, possible need for provisional ball when original ball might be lost outside a penalty area or O.B.). However, don’t stay to watch a potential ruling.  

• Mark the point on the penalty area line where the ball last crossed the edge with a tee.  

• Notify the Referee if there could be a question on whose turn it is play. However, allow the Referee to make the determination if asked by the players. You should not go onto the putting green to make such a determination. 

• Assist the Referee with three-minute timing procedure if there is a ball search.  

• Reposition bunker rakes if needed and time allows.  

Positions on-course:  

• Must be positioned in the traditional forward location; that is, in the landing zone of the stroke being played (e.g., to the side of the drive zone when players are on the tee on a par 4, and by the putting green as approach shots are being played). Anticipate the worst place a ball might end up  

• Be in a position to see flights of players’ balls, be able to determine where a ball comes to rest and whether it cleared or is in a penalty area, bunker, high rough, etc.  

• If there are two observers working a match, one should be on one side of the landing zone, and the other should be on the other side of the landing zone.  

• On blind shots, communicate as necessary with the Referee on when the group is able to play. 

• Move to the next hole’s landing zone when all balls are on or near the putting green.  

• Be aware of the match ahead and ensure you aren’t distracting those players with your positioning. 

• Attempt to prevent any interference with play or disturbances by fans in landing zones, particularly those watching the group/match ahead who may lag behind that group/match. Keep landing zones clear of fans. Notify Rovers if there are any issues with fans.