Taking up golf: Good resources abound to help beginners

The Utah Golf Association, with its "Every member a mentor" program, is looking to bring new golfers to the game and keep the sport growing.

But for those on the outside looking in, taking up golf can be a little intimidating. It can sound fun and scary at the same time.

First, it's a very difficult sport to master or even become average at, and no one likes to look bad at anything. Also, golf is not just a game of skill. It's a game of knowledge, a game of customs, a game of tradition, a game of rules and a game of etiquette.

In golf, there's usually a proper way and an improper way to do everything. Knowing and becoming familiar with these ways can be challenging for many. With a little education and preparation, however, these barriers are easy for golfer-wannabes to overcome. Just like the game itself, there really is a proper way to take up golf.

"People are not going to play golf unless it's something they feel comfortable doing," said Scott Whittaker, executive director of the Utah Section of the PGA. "It's up to those of us who already play golf to make sure everyone feels welcome."

Education: The first thing any potential golfer should do is learn more about the game by reading magazines, news articles, surfing the Web, watching golf and golf shows on television, and by reading books on golf-related topics.

There's plenty of information available from a variety of sources on equipment, techniques and swing tips, rules and etiquette. If you're looking for an "Idiot's Guide" to anything golf-related, it's out there — just Google it. Digesting a little of this information can go a long way in making someone new to golf feel much less out of place on a golf course.

Perhaps the best resource is simply another golfer or your local club professional.

Equipment: Obviously, golf requires clubs and golf balls. But with so many options available and with such an advance in golf technology, knowing which clubs and balls are best for someone at the beginning skill level can be confusing.

And there are more places than ever before where quality equipment is available. Most who are just getting into golf, however, will go to a golf discount store or a local golf course pro shop to get their hardware. The most important factor for beginners is to not get in over their heads with equipment designed for the more advanced players. Most golf salesmen, club fitters and golf professionals can advise you, and will, regarding what is best for you.