When you see another disc golfer struggling with their game, it’s only natural to want to help. The person in question could be a friend, family member or complete and total stranger. Heck, it might even be the disc golfer for whom you’re caddying during a tournament come crunch time.
Here’s the thing about advice, though …
It’s not always welcome.
And even when it is, make sure you’re not fire-hosing someone with it. Should the setting call for it, offer up your two cents, let ‘em mull it over and experiment a bit and then allow for some serious breathing room, regardless of whether or not things improve. If questions are asked, that’s a sign more instruction is wanted. But if they’re not, it’s best you keep to yourself.
I’ll give you an example.
I’m not a good golfer – ball golf, that is. One of my best friends is, though. State champion in high school, college-level stuff, fancy clubs and polo shirts – the works. Anyway, when we hit the links together, I’ll frequently ask for help with my grip, stance, swing and club-choice.
He’ll talk with me. Even better, he’ll demonstrate what I’m doing incorrectly, as well as how things should look when done the right way. Here’s what I love best about the guy, though …
Ball golf is hard. Because of it, more often than not, I continue to make the same mistakes over and over (and over) again. And yet, in spite of those repeated mistakes, once he’s done giving me a quality, mid-round tutorial, he’ll leave me alone until I ask for more coaching. This is a guy who competes in amateur tournaments – and wins a bunch of them, while he’s at it.
I don’t.
I’m out to stretch my legs, mix up my weekend routine and have a good, relaxing time. He’s out to prepare for an upcoming event. What’s serious business to him is a leisurely activity for me.
Note the difference.
The same thing exists in disc golf.
I get that the sport means the world to you. Your commitment to it is evidence of just that. But not everybody feels the same way – or should feel the same way, for that matter. Most people want nothing more out of disc golf than a few solid laughs and a post-round snow cone.
Both perspectives work.
As a cardmate, part of your job is to ensure others feel comfortable – that they have the best-possible environment to succeed on the course. Advice can help or hurt that cause …
Tread lightly.
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So, so true. You hit all the main points.
I am a teacher by trade, and LOVE disc golf, and I still keep my mouth shut…unless someone clearly asks. Unsolicited advice is a really big problem in tournaments. I am one of the least-rude, and least-confrontational people…but when a grown man starts trying to coach my 10 year-old son mid-tourney…
Oh, there’s a whole new element I hadn’t even considered …
Juniors.
Man, that’s gotta be tough …
Just let the kids play and have fun competing.
There will be plenty of time for instruction after the tourney’s over.
So true. AMEN. Well said.
Great mind think alike, eh, Steve-O?
I can definitely relate! I remember playing with one of my coworkers who got me into disc golf and he is like your buddy with ball golf. Formerly sponsored MPO, still tears it up when he shows up for tournaments even if he hasn’t hucked a disc in over a month. He has helped me out immensely with my game, but I remember one round around hole 12 or 13 it was really getting to me. Yes, I know I suck. No, that wasn’t what I was trying to do.
Eventually there comes a point where it’s information overload. Golf is a mental game and sometimes too much advice just messes with a mind too. I will say it is greatly appreciated when an experienced golfer on your card drops a gem in the middle of a round. Not a 5 minute lesson, but maybe a quick pointer and why it helps them. You try it out and instant success.
However, like you said a lot of recreational golfers are in it for the laughs, steps and post round snow cones.
Love the “information overload” tidbit.
As I see it, there are WAY too many people obsessed with perfect form, too.
Should you work to improve your form?
Yes.
But man, sometimes, you’b be better served just playing the game.
Too much of anything, even if it’s a good thing, is a bad thing.
You know what I mean.