How To Introduce Golf to Your Spouse or Partner
Regardless of whether you are a scratch golfer or a high handicapper, golf can be the perfect activity for you and the special someone in your life to enjoy together. The only question – how can you get them interested in the game you love?
We can promise you one thing. Taking them to the driving range and yelling swing tips at them is not the right answer. The key is to help them learn how to play while having a good time. Keep it light and keep it fun. No pressure.
Golf is hard enough without you pushing them too hard. Here are some ways to ease them into the game.
Date Night at A Driving Range + Bar
A relatively new way to introduce someone to the game is the high-tech driving range. Top Golf and Drive Shack are starting to show up in cities across the country. They are the perfect date. Get a couple of drinks, eat some food, and smack some golf balls. If you hit a bad shot, who cares. You can play fun games that reward luck as much as skill. Very low pressure and there will be plenty of laughs. Who knows, by the end of the night your loved one might say "maybe we should try real golf sometime."
Surprise Them with a Golf Gift
We aren’t saying you go out and buy them a full set of clubs but surprise them with something simple. How about a nice golf shirt? Or maybe one club – a driver or a putter?
First of all, who doesn't love a surprise gift? Second, it might pique their interest. We all know golf is a great game once you get hooked. You simply need a spark to get the golf fire blazing.
A Casual Evening Nine
A common mistake made when trying to teach someone to play is booking a tee time when the course is crowded. Another group watching adds pressure and can make the “golf rookie” nervous. This can ruin the entire experience.
Make a late afternoon or an early evening tee time at your local course. Rent a cart and plan on playing only 9 holes. Don’t keep score. Don’t worry about the bad shots (of whiffs). Celebrate the good shots and anytime your partner finishes a hole. Resist the temptation to give swing tips. Simply enjoy the evening.
Find A Couples Event
Many golf courses hold couples' events. They are typically in the evening, only 9 holes and are designed to be more fun than competitive. Look for one that has “captains’ choice” as the format. This format allows your partner to hit a couple of good shots and help the team. No pressure. Make one putt and they will be the team hero.
Typically, these types of events include dinner, but if the one you find doesn't, enjoy a meal at the course. Let your loved one see that golf can be more than just your time on the course. Many golfers enjoy the 19th hole more than the first 18!
Don’t push the game too hard. Allow your partner to join you when you practice or play. Before you know it, you will be enjoying long weekends together at a golf resort. Good luck, have fun, and play well!