Golf Etiquette: Distractions, Noises, and Where to Stand

A few weeks ago we started some Tuesday etiquette tips.  The last tip was on safety.  Today we are going to talk about a very important part of golf etiquette, consideration for other players.  We can break this down into a few bullets, and I'll quote the USGA's suggestions on this subject below.

• Don't move around when other players are playing their shots
• Don't make noise when other players are playing their shots
• Don't stand too close to players who are about to play
• Don't stand in the line of player's putts, either behind them or behind the hole
• Turn your cell phone off, or put it in silent mode
• On the putting green, don't step on the line of another player's putt
• Don't offer unsolicited advise

Most of these make sense to golfers.  Don't make noise, don't get too close etc.  Some beginner golfers don't realize they're standing on another player's putting line or moving around, making noise.  If these events occur, politely let them know what proper golf etiquette would be.  I find it always a good policy to stand behind players and out of their peripheral vision entirely, whether on the green, tee or fairway. USGA's Comments on Distraction

Players should always show consideration for other players on the course and should not disturb their play by moving, talking or making any unnecessary noise. Players should ensure that any electronic device taken onto the course does not distract other players. On the teeing ground, a player should not tee his ball until it is his turn to play. Players should not stand close to or directly behind the ball, or directly behind the hole, when a player is about to play. On the Putting Green On the putting green, players should not stand on another player's line of putt or when he is making a stroke, cast a shadow over his line of putt. Players should remain on or close to the putting green until all other players in the group have holed out. Scoring In stroke play, a player who is acting as a marker should, if necessary, on the way to the next tee, check the score with the player concerned and record it.