1. You've learned how to small talk like a professional.
If you've ever caddied, you understand that sometimes it might be hard to get a player to talk to you; especially if they are playing a bad round of golf. Although it may be difficult at times, it becomes surprisingly easy over time to start a conversation with a complete stranger and keep it going for four or more hours. There are endless conversations to be had on the golf course. I've had conversations with golfers from where they're from to current events topics. The sky's the limit when it comes to conversation on the course!
2. You know what a bad caddie tan is when you see one.
Ah yes, the dreaded tan lines. If you're as pale as I am during the winter, you know how bad the tan lines can get during the summer. Not only do you get the lovely V-tan from your golf polo, but you also get a stunning sock tan! You also probably get made fun of by your friends when you wear anything other than your work uniform. If that's the case, then I feel your pain.
3. People assume you're good enough at golf to be on the PGA Tour.
It's a typical assumption that if you caddie, you HAVE to be good at golf. But I can tell you from my personal experience at the range, that's just a flat out lie. I started caddying after my freshman year of high school and I had never even been on a golf course before. It definitely helps if you have previous golf experience, but caddying is all about growing and learning! Caddying is a great way to develop respect for the game, and a perfect way to learn what to do and especially what not to do on the course!
4. You've come close to being hit by a golf ball (or you've actually been hit by one).
This is no joke. It's really nobody's fault that this happens fairly often. Either the caddie isn't paying attention or the golfer hits a shot that happens to look like he/she might be aiming at the caddies. It usually leads to a good laugh, as long as nobody makes a trip to the hospital. If you've ever been hit, you may have even made such a big tip that it was worth it!
5. You've experienced what it's like to be "sun drunk."
This is one of my favorite terms to use after a long day on the golf course. The term sun drunk is commonly used when you've spent so much time in the heat that you become slightly delusional and start acting a little goofy. I can truthfully say that I have felt this numerous times after caddying for a round. Once it gets above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, I'm pretty much a lost cause.
6. Arnold Palmer is your drink of choice.
No matter what. Any time of any day, under any circumstances, you'd gladly choose an ice-cold Arnold Palmer over anything else. Every caddie knows this to be true. It's basically a written law.
7. You know what it means to truly work hard.
If you're a true, dedicated caddie, you probably get a loop or two in every single day of the summer. It takes motivation to be willing to wake up at six in the morning and sometimes not leave the country club until late at night, especially during tournaments.
8. You live and breathe every line from Caddyshack.
Enough said. And if you don't know the lines by heart, or you've never even seen the movie, then I'm judging you.
9. You know the importance of making valuable, strong connections with people.
Every day is a new adventure and a new chance to meet intelligent and inspiring individuals. Not only does caddying help you make money and learn about a new sport, but it also opens doors for new jobs or internships in the future. I've been caddying for the past six years, and this summer I had the chance to move 12 hours away because one of the members I have been caddying for since I started helped connect me for an internship.