Etiquette is a unique term unto golf. It is one of the few sports that not only requires players to respect the rules of the game but also the rules of the course. The conduct of the players has been vital to the game of golf since it’s inception. However, the 2019 rules have removed the unique word from the rules of golf. Now, these rules are called Player Conduct. This is to invoke the spirit of the game within the player.

Player Conduct

Player Conduct talks about the need of the player to show integrity, consideration to others, and take care of the course. While the term etiquette is gone from the rule book, it is still abundant in the minds of the players who have been playing for years. In that mindset, there are several etiquette rules that are instrumental to the game: where to stand, shadows on the line, taking care of the course, the pace of play, smoothing bunkers, noises, and playing through.

Where to Stand

This is not an etiquette on where to stand when you are playing but where to stand when other players are having a turn. Many golfers of ill etiquette will stand too close to the other player. Not only is this distracting but, giving the wide swinging of a metal club, dangerous. The majority of golfers prefer for other players to stand where they can be seen. This is to prevent any accidents and to remove the possibility of shadows being cast.

Shadows On The Line

Speaking of shadows, there are varying times of the day that golfers will play. There is a misconception that the game of golf can only be performed on a bright sunny day. This is far from the case. Players will go from early morning to late dusk. As such, shadows and light can be an ongoing and everchanging issue. However, there is a standard rule that your own shadow as a player needs to be monitored on the putting green. A shadow on your line of sight is not only distracting but can actually change the way a player reacts. Hence, it is always best to step away from the other player in a way that will remove the shadow from any swing.

Taking Care of the Course

This is one of the most common understandings of the term etiquette. It is having etiquette for the course. While the rule helps you as a player, it also helps following players. Taking Care includes:

• Replacing Divots
• Repairing Pitch marks
• Smoothing Sand Bunkers with a Rake

These may seem like small and insignificant things for veteran players, but they are monumental in the long haul. There is an old golf mantra of “Make one, Repair Two.” While old it is still a fitting mantra for this manner of player etiquette.

Pace of Play

Golf is a slow game. The larger the group, the slower the pace. However, going too slow can hinder the pace of play. There are several ways to prevent this from occurring. Some involve playing first instead of marking the score cards at tee off. Others involve preparing your shot while another player is teeing off. As long as it is not a distraction, this will help with the pace.

There are other things that can be done. Yet, the key part of this is to remain aware of your surroundings. So long as you are aware of the course and the players behind you, then the pace of play should proceed in a normal, unhurried, but quick fashion.

Smoothing Bunkers

Smoothing a bunker prevents ruts and large divots where you have just played through being left behind in the bunker. While you cannot make the bunker perfect, it is vital to leave the bunker as you found it. This will allow other players to find success in their state of play.

Noises

There are always several noises on golf courses. Depending on the location, cars could go by, or planes could fly overhead. However, there are noises created by the player that can be considered distracting. These range from undoing a zipper, to going through a bag, to jingling keys. While they may be accidental, these are creating a distracting environment for the player who is swinging. There are times when some players who lack etiquette will purposefully make noise. These are to be considered ill etiquette and decided upon as a group. However, this is a few and far between case.

Letting Players Through

Players all perform at their own pace. However, there are times when a group will be playing at a much quicker pace than another. This could be due to experience level or to the players purposefully finishing up their round quickly. When this occurs, it is highly encouraged to go ahead and let that group play through. A simple wave and a few moments of waiting will allow for both parties to succeed in their game.

Golf Etiquette As A Whole

As a whole, golf is a rather forgiving game. Yet, this was first created to be a game for gentlemen. A game where not only rules but gentlemanly etiquette is also required. Unlike other sports, such as soccer or football, sportsmanship goes beyond your own group.

The level of sportsmanship extends out to all players present and future. Whoever is following behind you on the course and whoever is playing against you, are all to be treated with the same value. This is why player conduct is such an integral part of the sport. It is vital for upkeep and to ensure that the quality of play is being upheld.

While it may seem odd to new players, to not simply move on after a shot or to step aside for faster players, it soon becomes another part of your play. Soon enough, players find themselves absently fixing divots, raking sand bunkers as their partner is exiting, or becoming more aware of their surroundings as a whole. It can appear to be a tedious task from the outside. However, it soon becomes simply another unique part of a beloved sport.