Juniors need to be given time to learn
Etiquette is best learned from example
Formative years: Young golfers are the future of the great game of golf.—
With the school year coming to a close golf courses will soon be flooded with junior golfers. Their presence at the course makes some golfers cringe, and the general attitude towards youth is often pessimistic. Some players view junior golfers as an inconsiderate, immature and disrespectful bunch. Negative opinions do vary in severity, but nevertheless they are very present. Young players are often treated as a nuisance, similar to a seagull at a family picnic. It is important to understand that the children of today are the future of this great game. They are the ones that ultimately become responsible for passing on its rich history, tradition and enjoyment. Juniors will become the next golf consumers and golf course users, and will represent the sustainability of the game. I am not going to tell you that they are all angels on the golf course, in fact, often far from it. I made etiquette mistakes, my friends made mistakes, and likely many of you did as well. The learning curve is steep and often a very daunting task. Etiquette is tough to teach through lectures, books and discussions. It is much easier to learn in a situational setting, one that is only available while on the course playing the game. Etiquette rules can sometimes be vague at best. We must not expect players to come into this sport with a complete understanding of all that is required of them. Simply put, learning etiquette is done best through trial and error. Juniors rarely make mistakes on the golf course out of disrespect. It is usually a case of simply not knowing any better. Working with juniors regularly myself, it is amazing what they will pick up on, if only given the chance. When you see a youngster making a mistake, turning away and grumbling about it will help nobody. Take the time to pull the player aside, explain the situation, and offer a suggestion for next time. Encouragement is often all that is needed. Never assume that they know better and are simply ignoring the rules. Many adults don’t even know or understand all the rules. Consider how you figured out the etiquette of the game, likely from a parent, older sibling or by learning from your mistakes. Showing support to juniors will help them—and ultimately the game—grow. Do your part to help mentor the juniors around your club. Many of them only need a pat on the back, some patience and understanding, and a little encouragement.