A
good deal of confusion surrounds the use of the word green in golf terminology.
Should one use “green fee” or “greens fee?” Is it “greenkeeper” or “greenskeeper?” Exactly what area does the word “green”
pertain to on a golf course? And is it
the “USGA Green Section” or the “USGA Greens Section?”Green is a noun and has two proper golf
meanings. The first meaning is chiefly
of Scottish origin. It simply defines
all territory of a golf course, or all areas outside the confines of the
clubhouse. Thus, it can be used in
relation to all outdoor areas of a golf course.
The second meaning, most readily known to modern audiences, means the
area of short grass surrounding a hole referred to as the “putting green.” In
keeping with the first meaning, a greenkeeper is someone whose responsibilities
entail maintaining all areas of the golf course outside the clubhouse. The term was changed to golf course
superintendent in the United
States several decades ago.
In
most cases of using the word green in golf terminology, the use should be
singular. Green fee, greenkeeper, green
committee, and USGA Green Section are all correct uses.
One
final word on this subject. Green, in proper golf terminology, does NOT refer to any particular color found
on a golf course. It only applies to areas or regions of a golf course.