Golf Etiquette for Beginners
As golf becomes more and more popular courses are seeing an increase in those new to the game. While golf is widely considered a gentleman sport, there are still a set of etiquette rules worth exploring. Frustration is part of the game; as it is a game of skill, however those on the course should do their best to ensure that everyone has a chance to enjoy their round. My name is John Gulius, and as a Greenville resident I have the wonderful opportunity to play many beautiful courses throughout the upstate. While I am not the best golfer, I would like to share some rules of etiquette that I have learned throughout the years.
1. Be early, not just on time. Be sure to check in a minimum of 20 minutes prior to your tee time to ensure that everyone can stay on schedule. In fact some courses will not allow you to start if you check in past the 20 minute window.
2. Follow the cart path rules. These are put in place to ensure that the course stays looking and playing its best. Due to drainage or other environmental issues taking the cart off the path can do some serious damage to the course. If it says cart path only, be sure to follow the rule
3. Do no take more than three balls onto the practice green.
4. Do not talk while others are hitting. Especially during the backswing! You will not make any friends breaking this rule.
5. Do not give play by play feedback commentary regarding the shots of players in your group. It may seem innocent but in fact it is very rude and annoying.
6. Do not stand in the line of sight of a players put. Stay off to the side and do not move around or fidget while they are putting.
7. Like rule six do not walk through the putting line of fellow players while on the green. If you are walking to your ball take a path that does not cross this line.
8. Please do not take more than three minutes to find your lost ball. If it is gone it is gone. Consider stocking up on refurbished balls. They are usually less than half the cost of new ones and play just as well.
9. Play fast. Even if playing bad.
10. Play ready golf rather than waiting for those the furthest away. If you are at your ball and ready to go, just hit
11. No phone calls!
12. Establish rules of the round before teeing off. For example when a put is a “gimme”.
13. If your ball is headed towards another player yell Fore. This is super important! You will anger others if you do not!
14. Always repair ball marks left on the green. They will in fact kill the turf.
