Pace of Play & Pet Peeves: Let’s Talk Golf Etiquette

Pace of Play & Pet Peeves: Let’s Talk Golf Etiquette
DFW Elite Golf League Blog

We love golf because it's relaxing, social, competitive, and just plain fun. But nothing drains the vibe faster than slow play, loud distractions, or waiting while someone takes their fifth practice swing.

Etiquette isn’t about being strict—it’s about being respectful. And when everyone’s doing their part, we all get to enjoy the round a whole lot more. Here are some light, but real reminders to help us all stay in rhythm and on good terms with the groups around us.

1. Keep Pace with the Group Ahead
If there's a wide-open hole in front of your group, you're probably moving too slow. Try to stay one solid shot behind the group ahead—not just keep an eye on the group behind you.

2. Be Ready to Hit
When it’s almost your turn, go ahead and grab your club and step out of the cart. Get lined up, take a practice swing or two, and be ready. It helps everyone flow better and keeps the round from dragging.

3. No Time for a Full Search Party
If your ball disappears, give it a quick look—but if you don’t find it in a minute or two, drop a new one and keep going. That mystery ball is gone and it’s okay. Nobody’s judging you, and most of us have been there.

4. Take the Max and Move On
There’s no shame in picking up your ball and writing down double par if things aren’t going your way. We’ve all had those holes. Keep it light, take the score, and move on to the next one.

5. Easy on the Practice Swings
We’re all for getting loose, but two or three practice swings should be enough. More than that starts to slow things down and can throw off the group’s rhythm. Trust your swing—then let it fly.

6. Music is Great—Until It Isn’t
We love good music on the course. But keep the volume low enough that only your cart mate can hear it, not the next fairway over. If you're unsure, ask your group if the volume's cool. Respect keeps the vibes right.

7. Don’t Be Late—Be Early
Golf doesn’t wait. If your tee time is at 9:00, that means be ready to play at 9:00, not just pulling into the parking lot. Arriving early gives you time to get settled and keeps your group from scrambling.

8. Stay in Sync With Your Cart Buddy
If one person is on the left rough and the other is across the fairway, things can stall. Grab a couple clubs and walk if needed so both of you can keep things moving. A little planning makes a big difference in pace.

9. Don’t Hold a Group Meeting on the Green
After the last putt drops, head toward the next tee before marking scores or chatting about the shot that got away. It clears the green and keeps the game flowing.

10. Respect the Course
Rake bunkers. Replace divots. Fix pitch marks. It takes just a second, and it makes a big difference. Let’s show every course we play that we know how to show up and show respect.

It’s Not About Perfection—It’s About Awareness
We’re building a league where all skill levels feel welcome. But part of that is making sure our energy is right on the course. That means keeping pace, being mindful of others, and playing with joy and consideration.

Let’s keep it moving, keep it light, and keep it fun.

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