Senior Golfers Know Something Younger Golfers Don’t

As a seasoned golfer, I’ve witnessed firsthand the evolution of this timeless sport. In recent years, golf has seen a surge in popularity, driven by the influence of social media and a new wave of casual players. While this resurgence brings excitement, it also raises concerns about changes to the game’s traditional essence.

The New Wave of Golfers

It’s undeniable that social media has reshaped the landscape of golf, attracting new players who bring fresh perspectives. Yet, with this influx comes a shift from the traditional customs that seasoned golfers cherished. Back in the day, learning golf etiquette and rules at the driving range was a rite of passage, but today, it seems some players skip the basics, entering the course with a mere “the customer is always right” mindset.

And that’s unfortunate.

Wisdom with Age

Golf has always been about more than just the score. It’s a game rooted in tradition, where respect for the rules and courtesy on the course are paramount. Older generations of casual golfers learned these values from family, absorbing the sport’s deeper respect and integrity. They embraced the slower pace of the game, using it as an opportunity to disconnect from the fast-paced world and enjoy the beauty and companionship the course offers.

Senior golfers tend to understand:

  • How to enjoy a slower pace on the golf course
  • The etiquette of the game, including how to comport themselves on the green
  • Forgotten traditions, like what to do if you hit a hole in one

That’s more than just the basics of golf etiquette. There’s a generational difference in how golfers play the game.

The Social Media Influence

However, the new generation of golfers is often more focused on curating their social media presence than on the traditions that make golf special. While capturing the perfect shot for Instagram might be important, it shouldn’t overshadow the respect for the game itself. There’s a growing trend to modify the rules to make golf appear less exclusive, which, if not approached with caution, could erode the very fabric that makes golf unique.

So what do we do?

Inclusivity in golf is essential. We should welcome new players with open arms while ensuring the sport’s heart and soul remain intact. To all new social media golfers, I challenge you to honor golf’s spirit, respecting its traditions and rules. Educate yourselves on the history and culture that established golf as a beloved pastime long before the digital age.

Conclusion

Yes, it’s somewhat ironic discussing this on the internet (I originally posted this to YouTube), but the digital platform helps reach many who otherwise might not hear this message. Trust me, diving deeply into golf will reveal why those seasoned in the sport are so passionate about preserving its traditional essence. Let’s combine the new and the old, creating a future for golf that respects the past while embracing fresh perspectives.

Thank you for joining me in this conversation. I’m Clint McCormick, your resident golf professional at Golfspan.com.

Clint is PGA-certified and was a Head Teaching Professional at one of Toronto's busiest golf academies. He was also featured on Canada's National Golf TV program, "Score Golf Canada," twice. He graduated with a degree in Golf Management from the College of the Desert in California and studied under Callaway's co-founder, Tony Manzoni. He has a handicap index of 6.2 and spends the winters near Oaxaca, Mexico, where he plays twice a month at the Club de Golf Vista Hermosa. He's written over 100 articles at GolfSpan since 2021. You can connect with Clint at LinkedIn, FB, his website, or Clintcpga@gmail.com.

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