[Update 2021] Things Should Know About Golf Caddie

The indispensable function of a caddie is to bring value and add assistance to golf. Not just carrying the golf bag, there are some salient functions performed by a caddie that change how a golf player plays the game. 

History of the term "Caddie" or " Caddy"

The history of the term caddie goes back to the past. There are some conflicts on who really coined the word, but one prominent story about caddie golf is associated with Queen Mary. She was the queen of Scots and spent her early years of adulthood in France.

In France, the French military cadets used to dispose of the golf clubs for her from one place to another. It is revealed in stories that when she returned to Scotland, she brought the custom of carrying the golf clubs along with her, which was termed a caddie. 

What is responsibilities does a caddie perform? 

Apart from handling the golf bag and equipment, the caddie must also be updated with rules and regulations and different strokes in golf. Different strokes in golf are as follows:

1. Par

2. Birdie

3. Eagle

4. Double Eagle (Albatross) –

Also, a caddie is supposed to know how many points to record after a particular stroke. Here are some listed duties of a caddie.

Hand clubs to the golfer

One of the major duties to be performed by the caddie is to pass on the right golf club to the player while they are hitting the shot. The caddy is also supposed to be updated with the difference between irons, wedges, putters, woods, and hybrids. He is also required to know the different numbering configurations used with certain sets of clubs, like the difference between a 9-iron and a 9-hybrid. 

Keeper of golf clubs

Ranging from carrying golf bags for golfers across the field to managing and handling the equipment and arranging them in the bag, counting on a number of balls, and providing the golf clubs to the golfer when they are again ready to use them are essential duties of a caddie. 

Dress the part

Since you are a caddie, you are supposed to dress sophisticatedly. There is a certain way to follow for sure. You may wear a collared shirt with nice and fresh pants, topped with a hat. The caddies in the tournament may be provided with a certain uniform to follow or to put on a caddie bib. 

Have sufficient knowledge of golf

Caddies are required to know all the golfing terminology and the set of rules essential for the game. They should also keep knowledge about all of the golf equipment and clubs that are in the game. Irrespective of whether they are caddying at a local country club or a PGA tournament, they should have all the information so required. Caddies are also supposed to be ready to provide any quintessential advice that a golfer may ask for, like which club suits the best for numerous strokes.

Knowledge about the golf course

Caddie must have a certain knowledge about the course, and it gives them insights about factors like hazards that as water bodies and unlevelled land. With this knowledge way, you will be able to provide perfect advice to the golfer when they ask you about it and for them to make a scoring shot. 

Watch the ball when it is hit

A golfer cannot keep track of the ball all by himself. Hence, it is the duty of a caddy to be aware of the direction the ball was swept and track it using various landmarks for the golfer and keep a check it goes into a sand trap. 

Keep up with the pace

No golfer would like to wait for his clubs while he is ready to sweep the ball and strike. Hence, a caddy should always keep up with the pace of the golfer in the field to reduce any chances for delays. The moment the golfer asks for a specific club, hand it to them or if they have no instructions be ready with the golf bag for them to choose on their own. 

Silence is golden

After the golfer starts to strike the ball, the caddie should remain quiet and observe the areas while the golfer plays. The caddy should remain by the side and observe the ball to fetch it back without being asked. 

Keep it positive

Golf games could be really stressful for the golfer, and in such a tense situation may seek a caddy to help him with a way out. If the player isn't doing really great, it is the duty of the caddy to boost the morale of the golfer.

The dark sides about Golf Caddie

Any profession has its ups and downs, and so does the golf caddy. To get this job, each caddy needs to beat hundreds of others in the selection process. Before entering the official job, the caddy must undergo many physical and professional training courses.

In all weather conditions, the caddy has to perform the task as long as there are guests. Doing this job is not only difficult but also dangerous. Many cases are accidentally hit by the ball or hit the foot with a stick. Regardless of illness or injury, management is usually not responsible because the caddy has no insurance.

The golf caddy profession is very difficult and prone to injury. The injury will be negotiated and resolved by the caddy and the customer. Many cases are not supported.

In addition, each error that occurs must be subject to a very heavy penalty. Specifically, if you don't turn off the electricity to leave, or turn on the lights during the day, your salary will be deducted, and you will be fined for weeding. In case of recidivism or major errors, they will be forced to resign.

Another hidden corner in the golf caddy industry is the act of "sexual harassment ", "soliciting" right on the course. There have been many cases that have happened and been condemned by the public. This is a warning to golfers with improper intentions.