Green on 19
One vs. the field

How to Play Defender

Also called: Chairman · Mug · The Defender

Defender rotates one golfer into a one-vs-the-field match on each hole. The Defender wins by beating every challenger under the agreed scoring rule; ties and partial wins use the group's published point split.

Best for

Groups that want individual pressure without partner selection or complicated scoring.

Handicaps

Net scoring works well and gives every player a fair Defender turn.

The clean version

Defender Rules

  1. 1

    Set a rotation so one golfer is Defender on each hole.

  2. 2

    All golfers play their own ball using gross or net scores.

  3. 3

    Compare the Defender with every opponent.

  4. 4

    Award the Defender the stated points for an outright win; award opponents according to the tie and loss table.

  5. 5

    Rotate the role on the next hole and total points after 18.

Before the first tee

Set Up the Game

  • Set Defender rotation
  • Choose gross or net
  • Publish win, tie and loss points
  • Define holes 17 and 18 when 4-player rotation is uneven

Worked example

How the Scoring Works

In a foursome, the Defender posts net 4 while the others make 5, 5 and 6. The Defender wins the hole outright and receives the agreed Defender award.

Mix it carefully

Can Defender Be Played With Other Games?

Defender and Banker occupy the same one-vs-field role, while simple overlays remain independent.

Best complementary games

SkinsRead the companion guideDots / JunkRead the companion guideSnakeRead the companion guide

House-rule territory

Popular Variations

  • Defender must only tie the low score
  • Carry the role after a successful defense
  • Double late holes
  • Three-player 6-hole rotation

Play smarter

Strategy Without the Spreadsheet

  • A safe par is powerful when every opponent must beat it.
  • Do not confuse an individual tie with an outright defense; publish the tie rule.
  • Use a rotation card so no hole's Defender is disputed.

Quick answers

Defender FAQ

Is Defender the same as Banker?

They are related one-vs-field formats, but Banker usually includes separate negotiated wagers against each opponent.

Can Defender be played with 3 golfers?

Yes. Three players rotate the role evenly over 18 holes.

What happens if the Defender ties?

House rules vary. Some count a tie as a successful defense; others split or push the points.