Scramble

A Scramble is a fun, team-based golf format where all players hit each shot, select the best one, and continue playing from that spot until the ball is holed. It’s perfect for tournaments, corporate outings, and casual group play.

What is Scramble

A Scramble is one of the most popular team formats in golf. Each player in the team hits a tee shot, the team chooses the best shot, and all players then play from that spot. This continues until the ball is in the hole. The team records only one score per hole—making the game faster, cooperative, and enjoyable for all skill levels.

  • Points-Based System

    Team-Based Format

    Usually played as 2-player, 3-player, or 4-player teams.

  • No Big Numbers

    Best Shot Selection

    After each stroke, the team plays from the best location.

  • Most Points Wins

    One Score Per Hole

    Faster pace and more forgiving than individual stroke play.

  • Most Points Wins

    Strategic Element

    Teams decide the optimal shot—distance advantage, safer lie, better angle to the pin.

Key Highlights

  • Less pressure with more opportunities for good shots
  • Encourages teamwork and communication
  • Fun, relaxed format while still competitive
  • Perfect for large groups and corporate outings

shot How to Play?

  • All players hit a tee shot to start the hole, giving the team multiple options to choose the best position.

  • The team selects the best ball based on distance, lie, or angle.

  • All players place their ball near that spot and hit their next shot.

  • The team repeats the process—pick the best shot, then everyone plays from there—until the ball is holed.

  • Only one team score is recorded for each hole, making the format quick, fun, and ideal for all skill levels.

shot Stroke Play Scoring System

  • Only one score is recorded per hole based on the team’s total strokes.

  • The team adds up the strokes from all 9 or 18 holes to get the final score.

  • Gross scoring counts the team’s actual score with no handicap applied.

  • Net scoring applies a team handicap to create fair competition among mixed-skill groups.

  • The team with the lowest total score—gross or net depending on the event—wins the Scramble.

Scorecard Example

shot

The team’s total score is 30, while the total par shown on the scorecard is 36.

This means the team finished the round 6 strokes better than par (-6).

In Scramble format, the lowest total score wins.

So, based on this scorecard, this team would win unless another team posts a score lower than 30.

shot Scramble Variations

  • Texas Scramble

    Same format but includes mandatory minimum tee shots per player.

  • Florida Scramble

    The player whose shot is selected sits out the next stroke until the ball is holed.

  • Ambrose Scramble

    Uses team handicap (popular in Australia/New Zealand).

  • Step Aside / Drop Out Scramble

    The player whose shot is selected cannot hit the next shot.

  • Shamble (Scramble + Stroke Play Hybrid)

    All players tee off, choose best drive, then play their own ball to the hole.

shot Why Play Scramble?

  • Fast-paced and fun

    great for golfers of all levels

  • Team-oriented

    ideal for bonding and social play

  • Less pressure

    for beginners and higher handicaps

  • More birdie opportunities

    keeping competition exciting

  • Perfect for Groups

    Perfect for tournaments, charity events, corporate outings, and friendly weekend groups