Win gracefully and lose gracefully were the first of golf’s etiquette words that were drilled home to me by my father—this was usually followed-up by him saying ‘empty vessels make the most sound’ referring to my over enthusiastic summarizing of any a shot, hole or round played. What he was referring to of course- is the uniqueness of ‘Etiquette’ –the unwritten law that keeps golf head & shoulders above all other sports.
Recently I was asked to coach a youngster by his parents. Before committing to a series of lessons I requested to accompany the boy in question over several holes. His overall attitude, demeanor and thumping of clubs into the ground whenever a shot was not as expected resulted in a discussion with his parents, where I explained that in order for me to coach him he must first learn golf’s etiquette and quickly mature in this regard. As expected this did not go down too well; and my services were not requested again from this particular family!
Did I mind about this?—well to be honest, not really, as I’ve seen this scenario before and no doubt will see again. It easy when on the course to forget that there are many other golfers out there too, and due consideration must be given to those ‘others’. For they have as much right to be out enjoying the facilities as you have.
It is understandable that at times you may be totally engrossed in your own game, such as is the nature of our sport however, golf and life are similar—you have to accept your disappointments and triumphs equally. The best part about golf is that if you observe golf’s etiquette you’ll always find someone for a game –and those you don’t—won’t!