Golf is a game rich in culture and age-old tradition. There are strict rules of etiquette to be followed in playing a game of golf -- including your choice of attire. Most golfers respect and happily comply with the rules of etiquette, and so are welcome to play at proper golf courses.

If you scoff and consider the rules "stodgy", on the other hand, you'll be destined to play your games at golf courses that share your disdain. That is, of course, if you can find one.

Most private and public golf courses enforce etiquette rules to some degree, and nearly all have restrictions on golf apparel. Wearing proper attire is considered to be one of the most important areas of golf etiquette, and respectful players will happily oblige. The most common requirements of golf course dress codes are proper golf shoes, collared shirts and long pants (not jeans). These guidelines are followed on the links and in the clubhouse.

The primary rule of etiquette on the course itself is to arrive promptly for your scheduled tee time. It's important to arrive at the course twenty to thirty minutes before your tee time. This allows ample time to park the car, change your clothes, purchase balls, pick up a cart, warm up and practice. Don't arrive at the course five minutes early and expect to hit the driving range right away.

Most golf etiquette is based on age-old rules, but one important rule is a sign of the times. You cell phone or pager is not welcome on the golf course. Leave it in the car or in your locker. If you cannot leave your phone behind, turn the ringer off and tuck the phone into your golf bag. You can check for messages and return them when it's respectful to do so.

Using proper golf etiquette is all about minding the needs and wishes of the other players. It's important to understand how your group wishes to play before you get started. Ask if the first ready golfer should be the starter, or if the golfer with the best score on the proceeding hole should tee off first. It's easy to offend a stranger if you don't understand their wishes. Be sure that you ask the rules when you join a new group.

Above all, respect the other golfers' need for a quiet place to play. Golf requires precision and a great deal of concentration, and golfers are unforgiving if they think you've blown their big shot. In following golf etiquette it is absolutely essential that you keep quiet and stay out of the shooter's direct line of vision. This can be a hard rule to remember when you're having fun with you buddies, but it is golf etiquette in its most basic form.

There's much more to golf than just a fun game. To many, it's a social springboard and a showcase of their good breeding. Even if you just play for the fun of it, you've got to appreciate that fact that golf etiquette represents more than just a persnickety dress code. Centuries of culture and tradition have created the rules of the modern game. So now, you can button your collared shirt, pull on your chinos and lace up your golf shoes with pride.

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Writer Emery Deiryme is a frequent contributor to a variety of popular web sites, on family recreation and hobbies and leisure issues. Click here to get your own unique version of this article.