Golf Etiquette Explained

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.

If you scoff and consider the rules "stodgy", on the other hand, you'll be destined to play your games at golf courses that share your disdain. That is, of course, if you can find one.

Most private and public golf courses enforce etiquette rules to some degree, and nearly all have restrictions on golf apparel. Wearing proper attire is considered to be one of the most important areas of golf etiquette, and respectful players will happily oblige. The most common requirements of golf course dress codes are proper golf shoes, collared shirts and long pants (not jeans). These guidelines are followed on the links and in the clubhouse.

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.

Modern times have brought about another important rule of golf etiquette. Your cell phone or pager is not welcome on the links. Leave your electronic gizmos in the car or keep them in your locker. If you absolutely must bring the phone along to check for emergency calls, 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.

Above all, respect the other golfers' need for a quiet place to play. Golf requires precision and a great deal of concentration, and golfers are unforgiving if they think you've blown their big shot. In following golf etiquette it is absolutely essential that you keep quiet and stay out of the shooter's direct line of vision. This can be a hard rule to remember when you're having fun with you buddies, but it is golf etiquette in its most basic form.

To you, golf may be a fun game. Others, however, see it as a showcase of their good breeding and even an opportunity to climb the social ladder. It's serious stuff. If you enjoy playing a game of golf, you've got to respect the fact that there's more to golf etiquette than just a persnickety dress code. These rules are part of a culture and tradition that have been observed by generations of golfers. Press your collared shirt, put on your long-legged chinos and lace up your golf shoes. Tee off with due respect.

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Information about the Author:

Author Emery Deiryme is a frequent contributor to a variety of popular web magazines, on recreation area and recreation travel subjects.
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