Understanding Golf Etiquette

By: Emery Noile

Golf is an age-old game that's rich in culture and tradition. Playing golf involves the ability to adhere to strict rules of etiquette, and that includes your choice of attire. If you respect and happily comply with the rules of etiquette, you will be welcomed to play at proper golf courses.

On the other hand, golfers who shun the rules and consider the etiquette to be too stodgy will have to settle with a golf course that meets their lower level of standards.

Public and private golf courses enforce etiquette rules to some degree, and nearly all courses will hold restrictions on golf apparel. The use of proper golf attire is considered to be one of the most important areas of etiquette. Collared shirts, long pants and proper golf shoes are the most common of golf course dress code requirements. These rules come into play on the links and in the clubhouse, and respectful players are happy to oblige.

Arriving promptly for your tee time is one of the primary rules of golf etiquette. Plan on being at the course at least twenty to thirty minutes before you will tee off. This will give you plenty of time to park the car, get changed, buy extra balls, get a cart, practice and warm up. Don't expect to be able to arrive five minutes before tee time and immediately hit the driving range.

Another important rule of golf etiquette is a sign of modern times. Cell phones and pagers are not welcome on the links. Leave your phone in the car or in your locker. If you absolutely must bring the phone along in case of emergency, turn the ringer off and tuck it into your bag.

Being mindful of other players is what golf etiquette is all about. Make sure that you have a clear understanding of how the other players in your group want to play. For example, ask if the first ready golfer should tee off first, or whether the golfer with the best score on the proceeding hole should lead the play. You'd be surprised at how easily you can offend a stranger if you join their group and don't play by their rules.

Golf requires precision and a great deal of concentration, so you must respect the other golfers' need for a quiet place to play. Golfers can be unforgiving if they think you've blown their big shot. Following golf etiquette requires your ability to keep quiet and stay out of the other golfers' direct line of vision. This can be a hard rule to follow, especially when you're having fun with your buddies, but it is golf etiquette in its most rudimentary form.

Golf isn't just a game; for many, it's a social springboard and a showcase of good breeding. If you enjoy playing a game of golf, you've got to respect the fact golf etiquette represents more than a persnickety dress code. It is culture and tradition that have been observed by generations. So put on your collared shirt and your chinos, tie up your golf shoes, and tee off with due respect.

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