We are now in the main part of the golf season. I’ve seen new players coming to play that haven’t played before. Many who don’t know the Rules and Etiquette of the game or the course. 

It is our job as employees of the course to explain to each player what they can and can’t do on the course. We can’t assume they already know. For those of you who are reading this that are beginners here is a few things you need to know.

1. Every player must have their own set of clubs.  It might seem like it’s ok to share but it’s not. It slows up play. For instance, if you and your partner in the cart are on opposite sides of the fairway and want to use the same club it slows your group down. 

The players behind you will not appreciate waiting unnecessarily. Rental sets are usually available at the course if needed. 

Even though there is not a time clock in golf the course you play, it’s expected your group to play at a reasonable pace. That would be approximately 2 hours for nine holes or 4 hours for 18 holes. 

2. Always call the course or book online a Tee time. I see many players just show up and expect to get out to play immediately. Tee times are usually available in 10-minute intervals. 

There might be a league going on and, if you just show up and can’t play, you certainly will be disappointed.

3. Dress Codes have relaxed over the years, but you still are not allowed to wear T-shirts at most courses. Always ask when you call for your tee time. 

4. The last rule I’ll discuss today are Golf Cart rules. At the beginning of the  round the Pro shop employees will let you know where you can and can’t drive the carts on a particular day. 

Cart path only rule means the cart must stay on the paths. That’s the rule usually after it rains. On most days you will see the rule of the day is a 90 degree rule. 

That means you stay on the path till you reach your ball and drive across the fairway to it. Basically, at a 90 degree angle.

There are many other rules and regulations when playing golf and asking questions before you go out to play would be wise.