Caddie Master at the golf course

What is a caddie master in golf?

At a French golf course, the caddie master is the player's first point of contact. This is a person; by extension, the name is also used to refer to the desk where they work, often in the clubhouse or near the first tee. It is common to say “stop by the caddie master” or “make a reservation with the caddie master.”.

Originally, at British golf clubs, the caddie master was in charge of the caddies: he recruited them, assigned them to players, and oversaw their work. Since very few French golf courses still employ caddies, the role has evolved to focus on welcoming guests and organizing the game.

What does a caddie master do?

Welcoming the Players

• He checks in the players and verifies that they meet the golf course's admission requirements: license, green card, or Carte Verte golf permit, and handicap, if applicable.
• He takes the green fees (playing privileges for non-members) and sometimes sells driving range tokens.
• It provides information on course conditions: closed holes, construction, restrictions on carts or golf carts after rain, and the day's local rules.

Organizing Departures

• He holds the departure schedule: reservations, group composition, intervals between groups.
• On competition days, he often hands out the scorecards and calls the groups to the starting line, in coordination with the sports association.
• He can relay instructions regarding the pace of play to the people responsible for monitoring the course.

Equipment

• Rental of carts, golf carts and sometimes club tournaments.
• Management of the bag storage area and members' lockers.

Depending on the size of the golf course, these tasks are divided among the caddie master, the starter (which sends the players off to the first hole), the proshop (the pro shop) and the clubhouse reception desk. At a small golf course, one person often does it all.

Caddie master, caddie, starter: What's the difference?

When should you move up to caddie master?

Always Before playing, even if you booked online: this is where your tee time is confirmed and you’ll receive the day’s information. Arrive early enough to have time to warm up, and bring your license or proof of skill level if the golf course requires it. You should also report any problems on the course or found items to the caddie master.

Why do we say “caddie master” in French?

The term comes from English and has been retained as is in French golf courses, even though its function has changed. In English-speaking countries, the term used is rather pro shop, front desk or starter for these services; “caddie master” refers—when the position exists—to the person who manages the caddies. If you’re playing abroad, ask at the front desk or the pro shop.