A golf club can be like a dangerous weapon. It should never be swung in a group.
Athletes should be taught to swing in designated "swing" areas only.
Always approach an athlete who has a club in the address position from the front facing the athlete.
Never position yourself or a student in the target line of a person swinging the club.
Pair students so they share one club. One student can become the "watchdog" for the other.
Establish a hitting line. No student should ever be allowed to hit in front of the established line.
Students should hold their golf club at the club head end whenever an instructor is demonstrating or organizing. This discourages swinging the club.
Teach students when to use the term, "fore" and that using the term is not a substitute for following safety procedures.
Athletes should be taught to use a stop-look-and-swing method prior to each swing when playing golf.
In situations where close supervision is difficult, allow only half-swings or to hip height. Note: Half-swings incorporate all the fundamental movements in a full swing.
A Word of Caution
Instructors have a legal responsibility to be sure students know, understand and appreciate the risks of golf. You must repeatedly warn students of the serious or fatal injuries that could occur if they are struck by a club or ball, and teach them to recite back to you the safety precautions in golf and the injuries that can occur if these procedures are not followed. Effective group teaching and safety in golf depends on the physical spacing of students. Please refer to the group formation outlined on the following page.
