Golf Etiquette Mistakes: The Seven to Avoid
The word “etiquette” sounds a bit old-fashioned. For Neil Tappin and Jezz Ellwood of Golf Monthly, it’s simply a matter of being considerate of others. On the course, they point out seven mistakes that new golfers often make.
To be continued
What the lesson shows
Rule 1: Be ready when it's your turn. Calculate the distance, check the wind, and choose your club while the others are playing. On the green, Don't step on the putting line from your partners, neither along its length nor across it: in wet conditions, the track can cause the ball to veer off course. Set down your bag near the exit of the green, toward the next tee, and if you chip near the green, bring your putter along, too. If your group is slower than the one behind you—especially when the hole ahead is clear—, Let her go.
Be careful with the noise: Clubs clanging together or rummaging through a bag just as a player begins his run can throw him off. Keep your eyes on your teammates' ball, especially when facing the sun: if the sun hits you, you'll often lose sight of it. Finally, keep an eye on your shadow: Even when standing near a player's ball while he's getting ready, a single gesture can distract him.
The Exercise, Step by Step
- While a partner is taking a shot, silently assess the distance, wind, and club selection.
- As you approach the green, look for the path to the next tee and set your bag down there.
- For a chip shot, bring your wedge and putter with you.
- On the green, locate where the other players' balls are and play around their lines.
- When a partner hits the ball, stay still and follow the ball all the way.
- Check where your shadow falls before he plays.
- If the person behind you is waiting, offer to let them go ahead.
Key Takeaways
Mistakes to Avoid
- Wait your turn to start thinking about your move.
- Crossing a partner's putt line.
- Leave your bag on the opposite side of the green from the exit.
- Rummaging through his bag while a player is taking his turn.
- Do not look at the ball hit by a partner who is playing with the sun in their eyes.
- Move with your shadow near someone else's ball.
Driving Range Mode
Keep it in plain sight, on the rug.
- Practice Session: Preparing Your Shot While Others Are Playing
- On each green, locate the exit before setting down your bag
- Putter and wedge coordination for chip shots
- Systematically watch each partner's ball until it comes to a stop
Your Questions
Where should you put your bag around the green?
On the side where you'll leave the green to head to the next tee. The video shows that a bag left on the other side forces you to make multiple trips back and forth while the next group waits.
Is it really necessary to avoid stepping on the putt line?
Yes. On a dry green, the difference is minimal, but in wet conditions, the track can make a difference. Go around the line, even if you have to cross it.
When should you let the person behind you pass?
When your group is slower than the one behind you, especially if the gap ahead of you is clear and you've fallen behind the group in front.
Why should you follow your teammates' shots?
The person who just hit it often loses sight of it, especially when facing the sun. If no one follows it, the chances of finding it again drop significantly.
Learn More
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