Willow Valley Blog  

Golfing is a great way to relax and spend some time with friends. I can't think of a better way to spend an evening than out on the course with some friends, but not every player out on the course appreciates a rowdy group. There are a few unwritten rules that you should keep in mind to ensure that everyone on the course enjoys their round. Now, these aren't technically rules, but they should be followed out of respect for other players!

7 Unwritten Etiquette Rules

1. Repair Divots. On the green, use your ball mark repair tool to fix divots. On the fairway, if a large chunk of grass comes loose when you shoot, retrieve the piece and put it back. This helps the fairway stay intact. 

2. Pace of Play. You don't have to rush through your round, but be aware that there are other groups behind you. A typical round should take between 3.5-4.5 hours. 

3. Let Others Play Through. If you're in a group that is playing at a slower pace, let the group behind you play through. Wait for them at the following tee block, and allow them to play ahead of you.This way you won't feel rushed and they won't have to wait to make each shot. 

4. Rake the Bunkers. Be sure to rake away any footprints or ball marks you leave behind so the group following doesn't have to. 

5. Don't Walk in Front of a Ball. When a ball lands on the green, don't walk in its path. Don't walk in the path of where the player will putt the ball. You could disturb their lie and it is considered impolite to do so. 

6. Don't Speak When Someone is Shooting. This may seem like an obvious rule, but there are tons of players that don't pay attention and talk right through someone's shot. Try not to be on your phone will they are shooting as well. 

7. Remove Your Tee. Even if your tee breaks, you should still pick it up. Keep the tee blocks clean and leave it the way you left it by removing your tees!

Courtesy Is Key

Etiquette is an important aspect of the game of golf. If you are courteous on the course, following these unwritten rules will be no problem as you are probably following most of them without even realizing it! Try to be as respectful of others as possible on the course to ensure everyone has an enjoyable round! If you get frustrated when a putt gets disturbed by an unfixed divot, shouldn't you also fix the ones you make? Try to think of what irritates you on the course, and try to avoid doing that yourself.