Proper alignment is a critical component of the golf swing. It is also a critical component of tee marker setup. One could make the case that aligning tee markers properly is just as important as moving them to manage turf wear issues. To put the impact of tee marker alignment into perspective, if the markers are off center by just 5 degrees and the player relies on them to orient their shot, a 250-yard drive would miss the appropriate landing area by 21 yards. Golf is hard enough without players worrying whether tee markers are positioned incorrectly.
So, what can golf course maintenance teams do to prevent tee alignment issues? I recommend creating a small, portable alignment indicator that can be carried during course setup. During USGA championship preparations, our setup team uses a T-square constructed of small-diameter PVC pipe. This inexpensive, lightweight tool is easily transported from tee to tee and placed on the ground to confirm that the tee markers are properly positioned with the intended line of play. Using this tool provides greater consistency among the staff and ensures that the tee markers aren’t crooked in the slightest.
Building some PVC T-squares that can be used when placing tee markers is a great way to improve course setup and provide a more enjoyable golfing experience. Given their simplicity and low cost, it wouldn’t be hard to make multiple T-squares available for individuals tasked with course setup and anyone else who might be moving tee markers during tasks like mowing or spraying.
Northeast Region Agronomists:
Adam Moeller, director, Green Section Education – amoeller@usga.org
Darin Bevard, director, Championship Agronomy – dbevard@usga.org
Elliott Dowling, agronomist – edowling@usga.org
John Daniels, agronomist – jdaniels@usga.org