What do I have to do to be sponsored as a junior?

Question

First off, I'm not looking for you to tell me to fill out a form and be a good player. Currently, my handicap is a 2 and I play in local and some regional tournaments, but my family cannot afford the AJGA (and I don't qualify for AJGA scholarships). In addition, today I finished second in my league finals event (out of 36) and beat many AJGA players and tied a guy sponsored by Titleist. So my question is, is it possible for someone like me to be sponsored, even though I don't play nationally (I will be trying for the Junior Am in the summer)? Also, what compaines (other than Titleist) offer sponsorships? Finally, are their different levels to sponsorship (ie. are there different levels where you can have a different amount of "free money" to spend every so often)?

THANKS

Answer 1

I know that the USGA and R&A a couple years ago relaxed the rules about equipment manufacturers being able to provide equipment to high schools and colleges.  But I have never heard of a junior amateur being "sponsered" by a golf company which would certainly seem like professionalism.  Since you are playing in these events and seeing these kids I would suggest that you ask them what arrangement they have and how they got it.  They might not be getting as much as you think they are.

Answer 2

If you get a sponsor who pays you something, you will no longer be an amateur, and thus won't be eligible to play in the Junior Am -- or any other amateur tournament, for that matter.

Answer 3

How old are you?