A Case Against Golf

For Parents wondering what Sports you want to teach your kids to play!

I find the game of Golf to be like buying an expensive sports car or an expensive branded handbag or dress. It speaks or tries to convey exclusivity or exclusion. Only the rich can afford it or I have arrived that kind of a thing. It costs a lot be it

1. the clothing 

2.  the golf equipment- clubs, bag, balls

3. the golf course rental costs 

I also find it an individual competitive sport best learned and practiced alone. And a money drainer, money that can be better spent on other things. I also don't see Golf players come back with healthy endorphins, smiling and contented like other sportsmen. They seem to be fixated on swings that didn't go well and disappointed. The light and air outdoors does not seem to work its magic on them or rejuvenate them in the way even a simple walk can.

In contrast, a team sports like Football, Cricket, Hockey and ball sports like Badminton, Tennis, Table Tennis, Volleyball etc need a Partner or Partners to spar with. They cannot be played alone, the dress code is simple, no individual fancy equipment is needed and costs can be shared.  

And clarifies roles and strategy especially in Football, Cricket, Doubles in Tennis etc- who does what- Fielder, batting, bowler etc, who is accountable for what and ensuring there is no impinging on other's area in general. 

It teaches sportsmanship, builds camaraderie and team spirit, inclusion and a sense of belonging. These games also involve actively running around and sweating. Learning to handle blame and disagreements on the playground builds these skills and resilience from childhood.  So I find these sports more inclusive than those like Golf. One also comes across so many parents or coaches freely volunteering to teach these Sports. 

I am yet to come across an unpaid golf trainer or Golf being taught as a community sport, the very nature of the sport making it not suited for these purposes.

 I have nothing specifically against people who play golf but I wonder if my feeling this way is influenced by President Trump who owns a lot of golf courses and is not a good team player.