Where to Stand When Others Hit
Also known as: where should I stand when others hit, where to stand when someone tees off, where to stand on the tee, standing behind a golfer, standing still when others hit, staying quiet on the golf course
Stand to the side of the player, roughly facing them, well out of reach of their club. Never stand directly behind them on their line or ahead of the ball. Stay still and quiet from the moment they set up until the ball lands.
Safety comes first. A swing can hit someone who stands too close. A ball can hit someone who stands ahead or off to the side in front. The safest place is beside the player, a few steps back, where they can see you if they look up.
Standing directly behind a player on their line can distract them. It can also feel like you are watching every move. Keep your shadow away from them and their ball.
Stay still from the setup to the finish. Don't rustle bags, rip a glove or talk. Watch the shot so you can help find it. If a ball heads toward anyone, shout "fore" loudly.
Tips by skill level
Pick a spot to the side, facing the player, and stay still until the ball lands.
Get ready for your own shot while others play, but do it quietly and out of their view.
Example
On the first tee, a new golfer stands right behind her friend to watch. The friend backs off. She moves to the side, facing him, and he hits a good drive.
Why it matters
Standing in the right place keeps everyone safe and lets others focus. It is one of the first things playing partners notice.
Common mistakes
- Standing directly behind a player's line
- Making noise or moving during someone's swing
- Walking ahead of a player who is about to hit
Frequently asked questions
Is it rude to stand behind someone when they hit?
Many golfers find it distracting. Stand to the side, facing the player, instead.
Should I watch my partner's shot?
Yes. Watching it helps you find the ball if it goes astray, which saves time for everyone.
Sources
Related terms
- Golf EtiquetteGolf etiquette comes down to safety, pace and care of the course. Wait until the group ahead is out of range, shout 'fore' if your ball heads toward anyone, and keep up with the group in front. Repair ball marks, replace or fill divots and rake bunkers after you play from them.
- Putting Green EtiquetteNo, don't walk on another player's putting line. Step over it or walk around it, since footprints can knock their putt off line. Also keep your shadow off their line, stand still and quiet out of their view, and repair your ball marks.
- Ready Golf (Pace of Play)"Ready golf" means whoever is ready hits next, instead of strictly waiting for the golfer farthest from the hole. It is widely encouraged in casual and recreational rounds to keep pace of play reasonable.
- First-Tee NervesFeeling nervous on the first tee is normal, and it shows you care. Slow your breathing with a few long, deep breaths, run through your usual pre-shot routine and picture a good shot before you swing. Hit a club you trust to put the ball in play, even if it goes shorter, and count a committed swing as a success.
Related guides & benchmarks
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