Nassau and Wolf (Golf Side Games)
Also known as: nassau, nassau bet, what is a nassau, wolf golf game, playing wolf, lone wolf, golf betting games, nassau press, golf side games
A Nassau is three matches in one: the front nine, the back nine and the full 18 holes. Each is scored as a separate match, so a player can lose the front and still win the back and the overall. Wolf is a game for four players where a rotating "wolf" picks a partner on each hole, or plays alone for more points.
In a Nassau, each match is usually played hole by hole, like match play. Players often agree on a press. A press is a new bet that starts when one side falls behind, often by two holes. It runs to the end of that nine. Groups set their own rules, so agree on them before the first tee.
In Wolf, players take turns as the wolf in a set order. The wolf watches the others tee off. After each tee shot, the wolf must decide straight away whether to take that player as a partner. A wolf who takes nobody plays as a lone wolf, one against three, for higher points.
Neither game is part of the Rules of Golf. Many groups play them for points or small stakes. Handicap strokes are often given by stroke index.
Tips by skill level
Agree on all the rules before you tee off: strokes, presses and points.
In Wolf, choosing a partner early on a short hole often beats waiting. A lone wolf on a hard hole is a big risk.
Example
Four friends play a Nassau. Sam loses the front nine 2 down, presses on the 13th and wins the back nine. The 18-hole match ends all square.
Why it matters
Side games keep every hole interesting, even after a bad start. They also reward match-play thinking.
Common mistakes
- Starting without agreeing on presses and handicaps
- Letting a bad front nine end your interest in the back nine
- As the wolf, waiting too long to choose a partner
Frequently asked questions
How does a press work in a Nassau?
A press is a new side bet that starts when a player or team falls behind. It runs to the end of that nine. Groups agree in advance when presses are allowed.
How do you play Wolf in golf?
Players take turns as the wolf. After each tee shot, the wolf chooses that player as a partner or passes. A wolf who picks no one plays alone against the other three for more points.
Related terms
- Match Play vs Stroke PlayStroke play scores every shot across the whole round for a cumulative total. Match play scores hole by hole, awarding each hole to whoever takes fewer strokes on it. So a single bad hole only costs one point, not a pile of extra strokes.
- Skins GameIn a skins game, each hole is worth a prize, or skin. The player with the lowest score on a hole wins that skin outright. If two or more players tie for low, the skin usually carries over and the next hole is worth more.
- Stroke Index (Handicap Holes)Stroke index ranks the 18 holes from 1 to 18 to show where strokes are given. You receive a stroke on every hole ranked at or below your Course Handicap. With a Course Handicap of 8, your strokes fall on the holes ranked 1 to 8.
- Best Ball vs Scramble FormatIn best ball, each teammate plays their own ball through the hole, and the team counts the lowest individual score. In a scramble, everyone tees off, the team picks the best shot, and all players hit their next shot from that spot.
Related guides & benchmarks
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