Parents are an important factor during tournament golf. Here are some of our best tips for parents while spectating at a golf tournament…
1. Stay Alert
There can be a lot of “down time” on the golf course while you are watching your student-athlete. It is important that you stay vigilant and pay attention at all times. Just because there’s down time for your group doesn’t mean that there aren’t other people on the golf course.
You need to be mindful where you are walking so that you do not interfere with the players, the golf balls or other spectators. It’s always acceptable to forecaddie – which means walking ahead to help spot golf balls, but remember that you should never touch any golf balls. Make sure you stand still while the players are swinging and putting, and be respectful of all players.
2. Don’t speak to the players.
While it’s acceptable to offer encouragement to the players such as “Good Shot” or “Nice Par” avoid trying to engage with them directly. Casual chat is fine, but treat the golf course as the player’s office. Which brings us to our next tip…
3. Cheer, don’t criticize.
The traditional golf clap and words of encouragement are definitely acceptable on the golf course but don’t make negative comments about the players.
**Watch your language.
4. Don’t offer advice to the players.
This is a BIG no-no in the golf spectator world. During competition, you are not permitted to offer any advice to the player. If there is a question and a ruling is needed, most tournaments provide a cell phone number for the on site rules official.
** Spectators should not give rulings.
5. Dress appropriately.
Wear golf attire at a golf venue. Every course has specific dress codes to follow so it is important to abide by those rules. Check the venues website beforehand if you have any questions. If your child hasn’t committed to a university, we highly recommend wearing neutral clothes.
6. Silence your devices.
This should be obvious but it is a good reminder to make sure that your phones are always silenced when on the golf course. Cell phones ringing and buzzing is completely unnecessary and easily avoided.
7. Post Round Analysis.
It can be very helpful for your student-athlete to have a proper post round analysis but there is a time and a place to do this. Sit down with your child and come to an agreement of when it is best for you both to do this. Make sure you talk about realistic expectations and the good things that went on during the round. Always remember – the player doesn’t intentionally hit bad shots or make bad decisions!
In conclusion…
Did this help you with your etiquette at the golf course? We hope that these tips on how to act at golf tournaments helps you at your childs next event. If you would like to learn more about this topic, check out our blog posts. If you would like more assistance as a parent, check out more of our posts here: Parents in Junior Golf
Do you need help through the junior golf recruiting process? Contact the team at Path Fore Success today! Send us an email today at info@pathforesuccess.com to get started today! For more posts like this one, check out our blog here: Path Fore Success Blog. You can also follow us on Instagram & Twitter for more!
