Before getting out on the green it’s important to know how to be a courteous player. When you’re mindful of others everyone can have a good time. These quick tips on course etiquette can make all the difference!
Spatial awareness – Look around before taking a practice swing or swing at the ball. It is important to be mindful of where all your playing partners are. It is customary, or polite etiquette, to stand off to the side of the golfer playing the shot. You should position yourself in front of them but behind the line of play. It is not recommended to walk or stand behind them. The exception being if you are in the safety of your golf cart while they are hitting.
Avoid talking while someone else is hitting – Make your best efforts to avoid general chit chat or conversation while someone else is playing a shot. This helps you to avoid distracting them. Some people are not going to care. It is becoming more common in a social golf environment to enjoy music on our smart devices and portable speakers. However, in a competitive situation it is good course etiquette to keep quiet while others are hitting.
Line of play – Do your best to avoid standing within any player’s field of view while they are hitting a golf shot. The easiest place for this to occur is on the putting green when people are playing from all areas of the green. Like with music playing in a social setting, I doubt too many people are going to be put off by where you stand. Unless you are side by side that is. Just be mindful of where you are when others are putting. Try to stand off to the side away from the direct line of view.