How to introduce your friends to golf

While golf can be enjoyed solo, it’s usually enriched by having a regular playing companion against whom you can track your progress. It adds a level of competition, provides social interaction along the way, and makes the whole outing much more pleasurable.

But finding companions can be hard, when your close friends show no interest in the game. Now could be the time to start edging them towards joining you on the fairway. Here’s how…

Take it slow
Golf is a game you can enjoy throughout your life – so don’t feel rushed to get your friends on to the course. Let them take their own time, with a bit of gentle nudging every now and then.

If you try and force them to play when they’re not in the right frame of mind or put them straight onto an 18-hole course when they have no idea what they’re doing, they could become frustrated. And as we know, a frustrated golfer is not a good one.

Instead, start slowly on pitch and putt courses or driving ranges so they can get a feel for the game. 
   

Lend them your kit
Golf equipment – especially the good stuff – can be expensive. It’s not like tennis or football where you can turn up with some trainers and a single piece of kit. Even a round of pitch and putt will require two clubs at minimum.

So be a sport and let them borrow your clubs, balls and tees. Not only will it make it easier for them to get playing, but the generosity might make them more open to playing that round with you. 

Show them the best bits
As mentioned, driving ranges are a great place to introduce someone to golf. This is because after a bit of basic practice they could discover one of the best parts of the game – the sweetly struck drive. There’s no feeling like it and if you can get them to strike a ball cleanly, you might just get them hooked.

But there are also other highlights to focus on. For example, make sure you play when the weather is good so you can enjoy the natural surroundings. 

Don’t worry about the rules
If you do manage to get them on the course for a full 9- or 18-hole game, then don’t be a stickler for the rules.

We know that there are a million tiny rules that many golfers love to indulge in. But for beginners these can be off putting, making the game seem inaccessible.

On the first round, just let them play. If they go out of bounds, lose a ball or just knick the ball on a swing, don’t penalise them. In fact, it might be worth not bothering with scoring on the first go.
   

Embrace the social side
Golf doesn’t end when you’ve putted on the 18^th. The clubhouse is as much part of the game as the fairways and greens. Make sure you make the most of this, treating your friend to a visit plus some drinks and even a lunch. Introduce them to your golfing friends and get them involved in the social side.

And if you’re a member of a high-end golf course, why not visit the spa after. This could be the act that seals their love of the game.