Caddies are not on the course to only carry a player's golf bag, although that is what some do. Good caddies can help shave strokes off a player's game with their knowledge of the golf course and insight to the player's game. This job is great for any golf enthusiast who has a knack for coaching, because it involves getting to be around golf while giving instruction to your player at the same time. There are some important attributes a good caddie has over an average one.
Step 1
Explore every inch of the course where you caddie. You can then give good yardage calculations to your golfer and also set them up off the tee. Knowing which side of the fairway to stay on, where out of bounds is and green and fairway slopes, for instance, can be a wealth of knowledge for the average golfer.
Step 2
Read about and be an expert on the rules of golf. This can be accomplished through reading and/or playing the sport. This way you will know how to advise your golfer to prevent any infractions. The United States Golf Association provides a rule book that most tournaments and golf courses abide by. This should be the bible of a caddie, and they should know it front to back
Step 3
Understand basic golf etiquette. You do not want your golfer talking during their opponent's swing or standing in front of the hole when they are trying to putt. Knowing the proper golf etiquette will help to go the extra mile in ensuring your golfer is paired with a knowledgeable caddie.
Step 4
Make sure your are in good shape. Although you may not think it is hard, carrying a golf bag is a fairly good workout, especially in the heat of summer. Golf bags weigh at least 20 to 30 pounds, so they are not a lightweight piece of equipment. Caddies at public and private courses will walk approximately two rounds per day, so some physical fitness is required. For example, if the golf course you caddie at is about 6,000 to 7,000 yards, that equals almost 4 to 5 miles.
Step 5
Network at local courses. If you are really serious about being a caddie, offer to work at a local course. Caddies must start somewhere. If you work and get experience, you can get the word out about your expertise. Many private courses offer a caddie program to get your foot in the door. Because being a caddie involves some social networking, get your name out in the public and around the course you work. Try to work with a local golfer in an open tournament. As you work with more and more players, your chances of being paired with the right person increases.
Tips and Warnings
- Unless you personally know a professional golfer, it is difficult to become professional caddie. You will need to work at it, develop your skills, and climb the ladder to be a successful caddie.
Things You'll Need
- Yardage and/or slope calculator
- Fitness to carry a golf bag 18 holes
- Golf strategy
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