Under USGA rules, Kuchar is free to plot his professional future with potential agents and sponsors. As soon as he reaches any agreement with them, that's a problem. Kuchar's amateur status also hinges on the behavior of family members. So far, the golfer's father, Peter, has handled discussions with agents and sponsors. Under USGA rules, Peter or any other family member cannot broker agreements with or accept benefits from agents or sponsors without potentially compromising Matt's amateur status, Morrissett said.
Travel expenses are another potential problem source.
Family members must pay their way, too, he said. Having The Tonight Show cover travel costs for Kuchar's appearance on the Los Angeles-based program was OK, however. NCAA rules also permit Kuchar to talk with prospective agents or sponsors, said Shane Lyons, a senior NCAA membership service representative. The Kuchar camp got USGA and NCAA blessings for the Tonight Show gig before Matt flew to Los Angeles, said Georgia Tech coach Bruce Heppler. Because of such restrictions, the cost of success has been high for the Kuchar family.