Lesson 7.1: What Golf Courses Look For
Before you apply for a caddy position, it helps to understand what golf courses and caddy masters are actually looking for. Whether it’s a local public course or a prestigious private club, the core qualities they want are consistent:
- Reliability — This is listed first because it matters most. A caddy who shows up when they say they will, on time, every time, is worth more than a talented caddy who is occasionally unavailable or late. Reliability is the non-negotiable foundation of everything else.
- Attitude — Positive, respectful, eager to learn. An enthusiastic, respectful attitude is often valued above technical knowledge, because knowledge can be taught and attitude can’t be easily changed.
- Knowledge — This is why you’re completing this course. Your HSGA Junior Caddy Certificate is tangible evidence of that preparation.
- Appearance — Clean, neat, course-appropriate. A caddy who looks presentable reinforces the club’s brand.
- Physical Fitness — Carrying a 25-35 lb bag for 18 holes over 4-5 miles, often in heat, is demanding. Being physically prepared signals you’ve thought about the job seriously.
Before your first application, ask yourself honestly: Am I reliable? Will I show up every time? If the answer is anything less than “absolutely yes,” that’s the thing to work on first. Reliability is the job. Everything else is how well you do it.
The caddy master at a private club has seen hundreds of junior caddies walk through the door. Arriving organized, making eye contact, shaking hands confidently, and mentioning your training communicates readiness before a word is said about golf.
Rate yourself honestly (1-5) on each quality: reliability, attitude, knowledge, appearance, and physical fitness. Write a specific real-life example for each rating. Then identify the one area where you have the most room to improve and write a specific, actionable plan for addressing it in the next 30 days.