Golf caddies aid players on the golf course in a number of different ways.
Of course, they carry and pass clubs to the golfer. They also help make decisions
about approach shots and what clubs to use. They estimate yardage and help
assess potential putts.
Before getting out on the course, a caddy also checks over and cleans the
player's equipment. They will also walk the course to measure yardage, get
a feel for the terrain and figure out how to read the greens.
Caddies also help boost a player's confidence and make them feel at ease
on the golf course.
Some caddies form long-term relationships with a player and are employed
solely by this golfer. They travel with the same golfer to all tournaments.
Caddies can also work on contract. At the beginning of a tournament, a
professional player often hires a caddy to use for the three days. After the
tournament, the contract is complete.
In addition, some golf courses hire caddies or allow them to work as independent
contractors on their course. In this case, any players on the course can hire
a caddy to assist them for the afternoon. Sometimes called runners, these
caddies can even help people who decide to use carts. Runners suggest clubs
to use, replace divots and retrieve lost balls.
A caddy has to work irregular hours and be available on weekends. Long
hours may be put in during a tournament.
A caddy must be in good physical shape and be able to carry a bag of clubs
around an entire golf course. "You must be able to stay organized and carry
heavy objects," says Dennis College. He is a Pennsylvania-based professional
caddy on the LPGA tour.