I try to be a polite player when on the links. I believe it is important to compliment my opponent if they do something worthy of saying “good shot”. Unfortunately, many players automatically respond to any shot with a positive platitude. Personally, I find this annoying and would prefer my playing partner not feel the need to comment of every shot. Let me explain!

As a low handicapper, the majority of my shots are solid and as intended. But, most are nothing fantastic, nor noteworthy. Yet, most of my playing partners offer the ‘good shot’ comment; sometimes before the actually see how my ball finishes. It is a bit annoying to hear “good shot….oh, wow, I did not see that” as my ball sails into the woods. I understand the need to be polite, but being overly polite is not helpful either.

Before I outline where a “good shot” is warranted, I understand that everyone’s perception of a good shot is different. In some cases, any shot in play is a good shot and I respect their point of view. However, this standard does not apply to others games and maybe offering a positive comment is more helpful.

Don’t get me wrong, I offer “good shot” to players as well, but I prefer to limit my comments until someone does something noteworthy. For me, these would be consider situations where I would offer a positive comment:

• a recovery shot that puts the player back in play or lands on the green
• a sand shot that stops within 8 feet of the hole
• an approach shot that stops within 10 feet of the green
• reaching a par 5 in 2 shots
• hitting the ball longer than they normally do
• making any putt outside of 10 feet
• any birdie, eagle or hole in one gets a positive platitude

As you can see, normal shots that keep me in play do not warrant a “good shot” in my mind. I appreciate my playing partners efforts to keep our round light and enjoyable, but I would prefer limited congratulations until it is deserved.

How about you; do you congratulate someone on every shot?

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!