Dec 17, 2018

Golf Etiquette For The Uninitiated

Golf is a wonderful game. You're outdoors, you're competing, you're with friends - you're having fun.

However, every once in a while a round with strangers or business associates comes along. And when that happens, you've got to be on your best behavior and try to not seem like the goddamn Neanderthal that you are.

Now, we like the occasional golf cart shenanigans and course pranks as much as the next guy but, like a QB scanning the D and reading blitz - you've got to know how to adjust to different situations.

This article will help you in those situations.

Below we've outlined some handy etiquette tips so the next time your boss asks you to play you can at least have some manners as you let him win.

Our Top 10 Golf Etiquette Tips

Before Teeing Off

1. Mark your ball and announce the ball type and number you are playing.

This avoids confusion down the road...particularly if you've been drinking.

2. Tuck in your shirt and make sure your hat is on right way forward.

Annoying, I know. This one is important for rounds being played at a private course or golf club. If you're someone's guest, the last thing you want is for that someone to get an earful from another (uptight) member because your hat was backwards.

Before The Green

3. Repair the course: replace divots and fix pitch-marks.

That seed found on golf carts and tee boxes is there for a reason.

4. Spend no more than 5 minutes looking for a lost ball.

The ball is gone. Suck it up and move on.

5. If you've hired a caddy, offer to buy them a drink at the turn.

The guy is a human donkey, for christ's sake - is a Gatorade too much to ask?

6. Place bags (or carts) off to the side or behind the green.

Be courteous to the players behind you as they approach the green themselves.

On The Green

7. If your ball is closest to the cup, grab the flag.

8. If your ball is not furthest from the cup, mark it.

9. If you think your ball might be on another player's line, volunteer to mark the ball.

Ask left or right, then move it a club head's length away in the respective direction.

10. Respect other players by staying on the green to watch them hole out.

Don't be the guy who holes out then heads to the cart.

And there you have it. Have a blast the next time you're out on the course and try to keep these tips in mind. Your playing partners will appreciate and marvel and your grace and class.