Understanding Golf Etiquette

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.

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.

The primary rule of etiquette on the course itself is to arrive promptly for your scheduled tee time. It's important to arrive at the course twenty to thirty minutes before your tee time. This allows ample time to park the car, change your clothes, purchase balls, pick up a cart, warm up and practice. Don't arrive at the course five minutes early and expect to hit the driving range right away.

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.

Using proper golf etiquette is all about minding the needs and wishes of the other players. It's important to understand how your group wishes to play before you get started. Ask if the first ready golfer should be the starter, or if the golfer with the best score on the proceeding hole should tee off first. It's easy to offend a stranger if you don't understand their wishes. Be sure that you ask the rules when you join a new group.

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.

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.