PACE OF PLAY
Pace of Play is crucial to the enjoyment of the game! Groups playing behind you should not have to ‘wait’ for their turn if everyone is maintaining a proper pace. The correct pace of play is to keep up with the group in front of you. Golf courses estimate 10 to 15 minutes for your group to play each hole.

As a New to Nine player let your group know how you plan to play the round of golf. Based on your skills you may decide to:

• Start your game at the 150 yard marker.
• Should you land in the sand or other trouble area, place your ball back into the fairway.  Please rake the sand smooth as a courtesy to the players behind you.
• Sit out the par 5 holes or just putt on those holes.
• Place your ball on a tee in the fairway to make it easier to hit.
• After your shot (if it is the furthest one back) move it to where the best ball is positioned.
• Always pick up your ball after 8 to 10 shots on any one hole.
• When it is your turn, BE READY! Have the right club in your hand and take no more than 30 seconds or one practice swing to prepare for your shot.  
• Once you take a shot, whether you miss, go 2 feet or hit it into a hazard your turn is done.
• If you are playing ‘slow’ stop after a hole and let the group behind you ‘play through’ and get ahead of you.

PRACTICE GOOD ETIQUETTE
Golf is a game of many rules! When in doubt follow the example of more experienced players. These are just a few etiquette tips.

• Be very quiet & still when players are preparing and taking a shot. (turn off cell phones)
• Watch where you stand when a player is swinging!  Stand outside her peripheral vision and includes your shadow.
• On the putting green, mark your ball, and do not step in another players ‘line’.
• In the sand, rake the area marked by footprints and the ball
• When driving the cart only drive in designated areas. The starter at the beginning of the round can explain where carts are not allowed to go. NEVER drive on the green or a tee box.
• On the tee box, remove your tee after you take your shot.

BE A RESPECTFUL PLAYER
While golf can be a very challenging game, set out to play for fun and enjoy the company of your playing partners.

There is a tendency for newer players to apologize, criticize and get frustrated when they are not hitting the ball well. Try not to draw undo attention to yourself with negative comments about how you are playing. This will distract the other players.

Likewise keep your commentary and advice for other players to yourself. ‘Good shot’ comments are always welcome when you see the player is pleased. (sometimes what you think is good, she could think is bad)

When it is not your turn, be involved in the game. (even if you have picked up your ball or decided to sit out a hole) Help your playing partners by looking for lost balls and watching their shots from the tee box.