Golf Tips: Etiquette Around Single Players on the Course

In today’s edition of Golf Tips, we look into an interesting breed of golfer. The single player. Whether you are playing as one yourself, or run into one when you are out there, here are some tips to make the rounds for both of you better.

Most of the time that I am able to get out and golf, it’s on my own. I know that there are a lot of people that don’t enjoy golfing by themselves. For me, it’s something I enjoy immensely. Maybe it comes from being a runner. Maybe it comes from being introverted. Whatever the reasoning may be, some people do actually like playing a round on their own.

The first of my golf tips for today is this, don’t be a jerk. Now this may sound simplistic or obvious, but it’s important, and it goes for everyone. If you are a single on the course, be respectful. Don’t hit into the group in front of you just because they aren’t playing sub 10 minute holes. It applies to the larger groups as well.

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If you see a single behind you patiently waiting on a few holes, take a break for a few minutes, and let them play through. It might not even take that long. A great way to accomplish this is to have everyone in your group tee off, and then let them play through. It can be a little nerve-wracking for the single golfer to hit in front of up to four random people. I can tell you this though, if you stripe your drive, you’re going to get compliments. I can about guarantee as well that if you duff one, the larger group will tell you they’ve been doing worse all day.

The next of my golf tips applies before you even get to the first tee….or maybe right at the first tee. Again, this may not apply to everyone. Singles don’t always want to be grouped up and play with other groups. This is different if its a busy day at the course, and then it should be expected. However, if you have a group of three, and the first three holes on the course are open, let the single through.

This is better for both groups if there isn’t an interest in combining groups. In my case, I always feel awkward if I get paired up with a quiet group, as it slowly turns into a somber round. If the group is already cracking them open on the first tee and tosses one my way, I know the round will be enjoyable. If the group of friends you get matched up with haven’t even talked to each other? Its going to be a rough day.

I’ve been on both sides of the single golfer walking up to a group. There is an easy giveaway occasionally to whether or not they want to play on their own. If I walk up to you with headphones in, I’m looking forward to playing on my own.

When it comes down to it, there aren’t that many things involved to dealing with a solo golfer. Be courteous, find out if they want to play with some other people, and under no circumstances tell them it’s fine to wear their headphones, and then constantly bug them with inane questions. That’s just going to put everyone in a bad mood.

Next. Golf Tips: Keeping a close eye on your scorecard is underrated. dark

Golfers who are out by themselves aren’t loners, and its incredibly helpful when you allow them to play through. If there is space and time, its fine to leave them be. Besides, you can follow behind them to watch them talk to and swear at themselves. If anything, it will leave you with a good laugh.

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