As the number of rounds of golf increase in my area due to great weather and laxing of COVID restrictions, it is time of PSA. The maintenance staff at Osprey Links Golf Course are outstanding. They are forever toiling away at on aspect of the course or another. As such, I will encounter a group or two during my rounds. Because of this, I think it is time to remind all golfers that the safety of the golf course maintenance staff is our responsibility. Yes, the responsibility of the golfer!

PSA: Please don't hit a shot towards maintenance personnel during a round of golf. Instead, make sure they are aware of your presence and be patient while they move out of the way. This ensures that they can safely prepare the course for us to enjoy. pic.twitter.com/sJ4OSLWvOC

— USGA Green Section (@USGAGrnSection) June 26, 2021

Every time I encounter a worker cutting the grass, trimming the hazards, working the sand traps, changing the hole on the green, or just driving for point A to point B, I ensure that they are completely out of range or I have their attention before hitting. I prefer the second options of making ‘awareness contact’ with each other because then I know they are also watching my ball in order to avoid hitting them.

I basically wait a minute or so to catch their attention. I raise a hand indicating that I see them and that I am about to hit. In turn, they raise their hand telling me that they are aware and are watching our group hit. This process is very simple and only takes a minute or two. Our group waiting a moment or two a few times during our round is a small price to pay to ensure the safety of the maintenance staff.

I also know that Craig Moody, our Superintendent, tells his staff to pay attention to their surroundings and to wait off the the side (if possible when players come within range of their position. All his staff are courteous and professional while busily going about their daily routine. It is the cooperation between the staff and the players that help keep everyone safe on the golf course.

The next time you are playing and come across maintenance staff, that a few extra seconds to ensure everyone is aware of what is happening before hitting. Safety of the golf course maintenance staff is priority one.

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