Not Complaining But...

I want to share an email I sent recently to a tournament director who hosted a relatively important junior tournament. I think it applies to general experiences we all have had or may have fostering our junior golfers through competitive golf:

I don't want this to come in the form of a complaint because I think you and your organization are doing a fine job and ran a very nice tournament this week. However, I think you should know that some of the participants need some education about how to comport themselves in a competitive environment.My son did not play well yesterday at the qualifier, but his troubles were compounded by the behavior of his playing companions. Put aside the fact that they shot around 105 and 120 each (I lost count after a while). During play they were constantly moving about, standing in the wrong places, too close, talking, rattling the flag, slamming and throwing clubs (sometimes on the green), and one of them was actually using his cellphone during play. I won't even go into the rules they were breaking since their scores were so high, but they also told my son that the highest they could take on a hole was an eight (instead of the 9,10, and 11's they were actually scoring). I'm pretty sure that's incorrect (let me know otherwise). I told my son to say something, but he's young, non-confrontational, and was so disgusted halfway through the round, that he just endured it and finished his round.I appreciate that golf is a sport that all these kids should enjoy, but there needs to be a better way for the kids that are competing to do so in a acceptable environment. Anyway, we hope for a better experience next time. Thanks and regards