Golf is a fantastic and well-loved sport. In fact, it's estimated to be the eighth most popular sport in the whole world!
There are many reasons why people love playing golf: the exercise, the fresh air, and for outgoing golfers, there's the opportunity to meet new people.
However, for more introverted players, the thought of golfing with complete strangers may be rather intimidating!
It can be difficult to get the hang of golf course etiquette, especially if you don't have friends who already play to help you find your feet. 99% of the people you'll meet while golfing are likely to be friendly and easy-going, but the prospect of sharing a golf course with strangers for several hours can be nerve-racking, especially if you're the socially anxious type.
Practising good etiquette is important, especially if you're going to be playing golf with strangers. We hope these tips will help you to feel more comfortable as you get started.
1) Don't be late
When playing with strangers, it's important to make sure that you get off on the right foot. Showing up late is no way to make a good first impression, so aim to get to your tee at least 5 minutes before you're scheduled to start.
Arriving early also gives you time to introduce yourself, decide who will be teeing off first and who will be keeping score, etc.
2) Discuss game expectations beforehand
One of the conversations you should have before you get started is how you all want to play.
Some golfers are very serious and keep a strict score, whereas others are more casual and play for fun. Some game-related questions to consider include Who will be keeping score? and Will everyone get a couple of mulligans? in case of any particularly poor shots.
3) Be considerate
When playing with strangers, it's important to be considerate and polite. Here are some general rules to bear in mind:
- Refrain from using unnecessary profanity
- Ask before smoking
- Respect the course - don't leave behind any litter or cigarette butts
- Be quiet when others are taking their shots
- Abide by any predetermined rules the group has agreed upon
4) Be a good sport
It can be frustrating when things aren't going your way, but do try not to spoil everyone's good time. If you're having a subpar game, don't be the person who always groans, shouts or swears after every bad shot.
And even if there are genuine mitigating circumstances spoiling your game, remember: no one likes a golfer who's constantly grumbling and making excuses. Yes, maybe it was the wind; maybe there is something wrong with the club; maybe that loud noise did break your concentration at the crucial moment. But there's no need to complain and bring down the mood - be a good sport, take the loss and move on.
If you're really struggling with a particular hole and everyone else has already finished, sometimes it's best to just call it quits, shake it off and head to the next hole ready for a fresh start. One bad hole doesn't make a game.
A good sport also encourages his or her fellow players. When someone else does well, congratulate them; if they're doing poorly, don't gloat or belittle them for it. Just laugh it off!
5) What to talk about
Getting a casual chat going is the best way to dissolve any awkwardness when playing golf with strangers! Good golf etiquette means avoiding controversial topics like politics, money or religion if you can help it. It's also important to pause your conversation when someone is preparing to take their shot.
Leave your personal dramas at home – the golf course is a place where people go to relax and blow off a little steam. If you spend the whole game venting about your personal problems, this can be mentally exhausting for your partners.
If you struggle to make conversation with strangers, try some of the golf conversation starters we've listed below.
Golf conversation starters:
- What do you do for a living?
- Whereabouts do you live?
- Do you have any kids?
- How long have you been golfing?
- Have you played here before?
- Did you catch [programme or event] on TV recently?
These starting points can grow into longer conversations that can carry you from one hole to the next. For example: What do you do for a living? How did you end up doing that? Do you enjoy it?
Although playing golf with strangers can be an intimidating prospect, it can also be fun and rewarding. And who knows - you might just meet your new best friend!
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