Golf Merit Badge

Free Resources and Answers

Time: 2–4 weeks
Difficulty: Easy, Moderate
Setting: Golf course, outdoor
Best For: Scouts interested in sports, golf, skill building
Hands-On Level: High
Requires Camping/Travel: No
Eagle Required: No

The Golf merit badge gives you a chance to learn the basics of traditional golf or disc golf. You will practice skills, learn how the game is played, and spend time outdoors. You do not need to be an experienced player to begin.

As you work on the badge, you will learn about equipment, safety, rules, and good sportsmanship. You will practice swings or throws and learn how to improve your aim and control. You will also see why patience and focus matter during a game.

This merit badge can help you build confidence as you try new skills. You will learn from practice, handle mistakes, and keep working toward improvement. By the end, you will better understand the game and how to play it safely and respectfully.

Download the Golf Merit Badge Requirements

Golf Merit Badge Pamphlet

Golf Merit Badge Check Off Sheet – Traditional Golf Option

Golf Merit Badge Check Off Sheet – Disc Golf Option

Checklist for All Merit Badges

Help with Answers for Merit Badge Requirements

Find specific helps for some of the merit badge requirements listed below. Some of these resources will just give the answers. Others will provide engaging ways for older Scouts to introduce these concepts to new Scouts.

• Requirement 1: Safety
• Requirement 2: Traditional Golf Option
• Requirement 2: Disc Golf Option

Requirement 1: Golf Course Safety

What You Need To Do

Discuss common dangers on a golf course and the first aid used for each one. Cover lightning, heat illness, sunburn, dehydration, blisters, bites, poison ivy, sprains, and strains.

Helpful Tips

• Leave the course when thunder or lightning begins. Go inside a building or a hard-topped vehicle.
• Heat exhaustion may cause heavy sweating, weakness, headache, or dizziness. Move the person to shade, loosen clothing, and give small sips of water.
• Heatstroke may cause confusion, fainting, or very hot skin. Call 911 and cool the person with wet cloths or cold packs.
• Use sunscreen, a hat, and protective clothing to prevent sunburn. Cool burned skin with water and protect it from more sun.
• Drink water before, during, and after playing. A dry mouth, dark urine, weakness, or dizziness may point to dehydration.
• Wear shoes and socks that fit well. Cover a blister with a clean bandage and avoid breaking it.
• Clean bug bites and animal bites with soap and water. Use a cold pack for swelling and get medical help for serious reactions.
• Wash skin with soap and cool water after poison ivy contact. Avoid scratching the rash.
• Rest a sprain or strain and place a cold pack on the injury. Raise the injured area when possible.
• Keep clubs pointed away from others. Wait until the area ahead is clear before swinging or hitting a ball.

Resources

• First Aid on the Golf Course (video)

Leader Tips

• Use simple golf course examples during the discussion.
• Ask Scouts to match each hazard with the proper first aid.
• Review the difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
• Have Scouts practice choosing safe shelter during a lightning storm.

Requirement 2A-1: Rules, Etiquette, And Golf Terms

What You Need To Do

Study the current USGA Rules of Golf. Discuss golf etiquette, common golf terms, and the Rules of Amateur Status with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Golf etiquette covers care for the course, pace of play, and respect for other players.
• Repair ball marks, replace divots, and rake bunkers after use.
• Be ready to play when it is your turn.
• Stay quiet and still while another golfer prepares to hit.
• A teeing area is the place where each hole begins.
• A fairway is the shorter grass leading toward the putting green.
• A penalty area may include water or another marked part of the course.
• Par is the score an expert golfer is expected to make on a hole.
• A birdie is one stroke under par. A bogey is one stroke over par.
• Amateur golfers play mainly for skill, competition, and enjoyment rather than financial gain.
• The Rules of Amateur Status place limits on prizes and payments connected with golf skill.

Resources

• USGA Rules of Golf (website)
• USGA Rules of Golf (Free Course) (website)
• The Golf Clubs in Your Bag (video)
• Three Categories of Golf Etiquette (PDF)
• Basic Golf Terminology (video)
• Rules of Amateur Status (video)

Leader Tips

• Use a scorecard or course map while reviewing golf terms.
• Ask the Scout to give examples of good and poor etiquette.
• Present short rule situations for the Scout to solve.
• Use the current USGA rules during the discussion.

Understanding the World Handicap System for the Golf Merit Badge

Requirement 2A-2: World Handicap System

What You Need To Do

Discuss how the World Handicap System works. Include how a handicap helps golfers with different skill levels play against one another.

Helpful Tips

• A handicap is a number based on a golfer’s recent scores.
• A lower handicap usually belongs to a more skilled golfer.
• A higher handicap gives a player more strokes during a round.
• Scores must be posted for a handicap to remain current.
• Course difficulty affects the handicap calculation.
• Course Rating shows the expected score for a skilled golfer.
• Slope Rating compares course difficulty for other golfers.
• A Handicap Index can be used on many different courses.
• A course handicap shows how many strokes a player receives on a certain course.
• The system supports fair competition among golfers with different skill levels.

Resources

• World Handicap System (video)

Leader Tips

• Show the Scout a sample scorecard and handicap record.
• Compare two golfers with different Handicap Index numbers.
• Walk through a simple example of receiving strokes.
• Keep the focus on the purpose of the system rather than difficult math.

Requirement 2A-3: Golf History And A Top Golfer

What You Need To Do

Discuss the early history of golf, its growth in the United States, and the accomplishments of one leading golfer.

Helpful Tips

• Early forms of golf were played in Scotland several centuries ago.
• Players hit balls toward targets across open land.
• St. Andrews became an important center for the game.
• Early golf clubs were often made from wood.
• Early golf balls were made from leather and feathers.
• Golf spread to the United States through immigrants and travelers.
• Golf clubs and courses appeared in the United States during the late 1800s.
• The United States Golf Association was formed in 1894.
• Public courses helped make golf available to more people.
• Choose a golfer from the PGA Tour, LPGA Tour, or golf history.
• Include major wins, records, awards, or work that helped the sport.
• Use reliable sources when gathering facts about the golfer.

Golfers To Consider

• Tiger Woods
• Jack Nicklaus
• Arnold Palmer
• Ben Hogan
• Bobby Jones
• Phil Mickelson
• Rory McIlroy
• Scottie Scheffler
• Annika Sörenstam
• Nancy Lopez
• Babe Didrikson Zaharias
• Mickey Wright
• Kathy Whitworth
• Lorena Ochoa
• Lydia Ko
• Nelly Korda
• Charlie Sifford
• Lee Elder

Resources

• History of Golf (video)
• The Incomplete History of Golf in America (video)
• LPGA Player Profiles (website)
• PGA Player Profiles (website)

Leader Tips

• Help the Scout place major events on a simple timeline.
• Encourage a golfer choice based on personal interest.
• Ask how the golfer affected the game or other players.
• Check dates and accomplishments before the discussion.

Famous Golfers to Study for the Golf Merit Badge

Requirement 2A-4: Golf And Fitness

What You Need To Do

Discuss the mental and physical health benefits of golf. Show two exercises that can support better golf performance.

Helpful Tips

• Walking a golf course provides steady physical activity.
• Carrying or pulling a golf bag adds more movement.
• A golf swing uses the legs, hips, back, shoulders, and arms.
• Regular play can support balance, coordination, and flexibility.
• Golf requires focus during each shot.
• Players must stay calm after a poor shot.
• Time outdoors can help reduce stress.
• Stretching can improve the range of motion used in a swing.
• Squats can strengthen the legs and hips.
• Planks can strengthen the muscles around the stomach and back.
• Shoulder turns can improve rotation during the swing.
• Exercises should use slow, controlled movement and proper form.

Resources

• Health Benefits of Golf (video)
• Exercises to Improve Your Game (video)

Leader Tips

• Provide enough space for safe exercise demonstrations.
• Ask the Scout to connect each exercise to part of the golf swing.
• Stress warmups, proper form, and gradual progress.
• Avoid exercises beyond the Scout’s ability or fitness level.

Requirement 2A-5: Golf Skills

What You Need To Do

Show the basic golf skills listed in the requirement. Include proper setup, full swings, short-game shots, recovery shots, and putting.

Helpful Tips

• Place the hands together on the club with a firm but relaxed grip.
• Stand with balanced weight and slightly bent knees.
• Keep the back straight without becoming stiff.
• Use a smooth swing rather than trying to hit with full force.
• Tee the ball at the proper height for a driver or iron.
• Sweep a fairway wood through the ball with a steady motion.
• Use controlled contact when playing long and short iron shots.
• An approach shot is played toward the putting green.
• A chip-and-run stays low and rolls toward the hole.
• A pitch shot flies higher and stops with less roll.
• Open the clubface and use the sand for many bunker shots.
• Use a club with enough loft when hitting from heavy rough.
• Keep the head still and move the putter in a smooth stroke.
• Practice short putts to build control and confidence.
• Make sure no one is close before taking a swing.

Resources

• How to Swing a Golf Club: 5 Steps for Beginners (video)
• How to Hit a Driver from the Tee (video)
• How to Hit an Iron from the Tee (video)
• How to Hit a Fairway Wood (video)
• How to Hit a Long Iron Shot (video)
• How to Hit a Short Iron Shot (video)
• How to Hit a Chip Shot (video)
• How to Hit a Bunker Shot (video)
• How to Hit from the Rough (video)
• How to Make Long Putts (video)
• How to Make Short Putts (video)

Leader Tips

• Use a practice range, putting green, or safe open area.
• Demonstrate one skill at a time and allow several attempts.
• Focus on safety, balance, and solid contact before distance.
• Give one correction at a time instead of changing the whole swing.

Requirement 2A-6: Play A Golf Round

What You Need To Do

Play two nine-hole rounds or one 18-hole round with another golfer about your age and an approved adult. Follow the rules, use good etiquette, and show respect throughout the round.

Helpful Tips

• Arrive early enough to check in and prepare your equipment.
• Carry enough water, sunscreen, and weather protection.
• Confirm the local course rules before starting.
• Mark your ball so it can be identified.
• Count every stroke and penalty honestly.
• Play from the proper teeing area.
• Wait until players ahead are safely out of range.
• Stay ready so the group can keep a steady pace.
• Repair divots and ball marks during the round.
• Rake bunkers after playing from them.
• Avoid talking or moving during another golfer’s shot.
• Respect course workers, event staff, spectators, and other players.
• Shake hands or thank the other players after the round.
• Record the score for each hole on the scorecard.

Resources

• How to Play Your First Round of Golf (video)

Leader Tips

• Approve the adult and playing arrangement before the round.
• Review safety, pace of play, and local rules before starting.
• Let the Scout make rule and etiquette decisions during play.
• Discuss the round afterward, including strengths and areas for practice.

Requirement 2A-7: Careers In Golf

What You Need To Do

Research three careers connected with traditional golf. Choose one career and discuss its education, training, experience, and personal appeal.

Helpful Tips

• A golf professional may manage programs, tournaments, lessons, and a golf shop.
• A golf instructor helps players improve their swings and course skills.
• A golf course superintendent manages grass, soil, irrigation, and course care.
• A caddie carries equipment and gives course information to a golfer.
• A club fitter matches golf clubs to a player’s body and swing.
• A tournament director plans and manages golf events.
• A sports journalist reports on golfers, tournaments, and golf news.
• Some golf careers require a college degree.
• Other careers use certification programs, apprenticeships, or work experience.
• Customer service skills are useful in many golf jobs.
• Course-care jobs may require training in plants, soil, weather, and equipment.
• Teaching jobs require strong golf skills and clear communication.
• Include daily duties, work setting, training costs, and possible career paths.
• Give clear reasons for choosing the career that interests you most.

Resources

• How to Become a Golf Professional (video)
• How to Become a Golf Instructor (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage the Scout to use career pages from golf organizations.
• Invite a local golf worker to answer questions when possible.
• Help the Scout compare education and experience for each career.
• Ask which duties best match the Scout’s skills and interests.

Requirement 2B-1: Rules, Courtesy, And Scoring

What You Need To Do

Study the current PDGA Official Rules of Disc Golf. Discuss the six areas of courtesy and the seven parts of scoring with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Never throw when a disc could hit or distract someone.
• Follow the proper throwing order.
• Stay quiet and still while another player throws.
• Avoid shouting, cursing, or damaging equipment.
• Keep bags and equipment away from another player’s lie.
• Pack out trash and care for the course.
• Follow rules for smoking and other products during play.
• Each player keeps a separate scorecard during a sanctioned round.
• Record each player’s score after every hole.
• Count all throws and penalty throws.
• Use the correct name or PDGA number for each player.
• Review the scores with the group before submitting the card.
• Submit the scorecard within the allowed time.
• A wrong total or missing score may bring penalty throws.
• Refusing to keep score may lead to disqualification.

Resources

• PDGA Rules of Disc Golf (website)
• PDGA Rules 1: Overview (video)
• PDGA Rules School (playlist)
• Disc Course Etiquette (video)
• Disc Golf Scoring Rules (website)

Leader Tips

• Use the current PDGA rulebook during the discussion.
• Present short course situations for the Scout to solve.
• Ask the Scout to find courtesy and scoring rules in the rulebook.
• Practice completing and checking a sample scorecard.

Requirement 2B-2: Disc Golf History And Inclusion

What You Need To Do

Discuss the beginning and growth of disc golf. Include reasons people with many ages, skill levels, and abilities can take part.

Helpful Tips

• Early players threw flying discs at trees, poles, trash cans, and other targets.
• Organized disc golf began to grow during the 1960s and 1970s.
• Permanent courses gave players marked tees and targets.
• Many public parks offer disc golf without a playing fee.
• A beginner can start with one disc.
• Courses often provide layouts for different skill levels.
• Players can choose shorter throws and slower playing speeds.
• People can play alone, with friends, or in organized events.
• Players of different ages can share the same course.
• Divisions can group players by age, skill, or other factors.
• The Disc Golfer’s Code calls for respect, course care, and responsible play.
• Inclusive play includes patience and support for every player.

Resources

• PDGA Disc Golfer’s Code (website)

Leader Tips

• Ask the Scout to compare disc golf with other outdoor sports.
• Discuss costs, equipment, course access, and playing pace.
• Include examples of ways a group can support a new player.
• Keep the focus on fair and welcoming play.

Requirement 2B-3: History, Discs, And A Top Player

What You Need To Do

Discuss disc golf history, Ed Headrick’s contributions, changes in disc design, and the accomplishments of one leading disc golfer.

Helpful Tips

• “Steady” Ed Headrick helped turn flying-disc games into an organized sport.
• Headrick worked on the design of the modern Frisbee.
• He helped create the Professional Disc Golf Association.
• He designed and patented the Disc Golf Pole Hole with chains and a basket.
• His target design became the model for modern disc golf baskets.
• Early players often used general-purpose flying discs.
• Modern golf discs use different rim widths, shapes, and plastic types.
• Drivers are designed for longer throws.
• Midrange discs support controlled throws at medium distances.
• Putters travel more slowly and offer control near the target.
• Disc flight numbers cover speed, glide, turn, and fade.
• Choose a player from current competition or disc golf history.
• Include major titles, records, awards, or service to the sport.
• Use PDGA profiles and official event results for player facts.

Disc Golfers To Consider

• Paul McBeth
• Ken Climo
• Ricky Wysocki
• Gannon Buhr
• Calvin Heimburg
• Isaac Robinson
• James Conrad
• Simon Lizotte
• Kristin Lätt
• Paige Pierce
• Catrina Allen
• Ohn Scoggins
• Missy Gannon
• Eveliina Salonen
• Juliana Korver
• Elaine King
• Valarie Jenkins
• Des Reading

Resources

• The History of Disc Golf (video)
• Top Disc Golfers in the World (website)

Leader Tips

• Help the Scout create a short timeline.
• Provide several discs for a side-by-side comparison.
• Encourage a player choice based on personal interest.
• Check player records through official PDGA sources.

Requirement 2B-4: Disc Golf And Fitness

What You Need To Do

Discuss the mental and physical health benefits of disc golf. Show two exercises for better disc golf performance.

Helpful Tips

• Walking an 18-hole course provides steady physical activity.
• Hills and uneven ground add work for the legs and core.
• Throwing uses the legs, hips, back, shoulders, and arms.
• Regular play can support balance and coordination.
• A round requires focus on distance, wind, obstacles, and disc choice.
• Calm play helps after a poor throw or missed putt.
• Outdoor activity can lower stress and provide social time.
• A warmup prepares muscles and joints for throwing.
• Lunges can build leg strength and balance.
• Planks can strengthen the stomach and back.
• Shoulder rotations can support a smooth throwing motion.
• Side steps with a resistance band can strengthen the hips.
• Use slow movement and proper form during each exercise.
• Stop an exercise if it causes pain.

Resources

• Health Benefits of Disc Golf (video)
• Disc Golf Exercise Plan (video)

Leader Tips

• Provide a clear area for exercise demonstrations.
• Ask the Scout to connect each exercise with a throwing skill.
• Stress warmups and controlled movement.
• Select exercises suited to the Scout’s ability.

Requirement 2B-5: Throwing And Putting Skills

What You Need To Do

Show the listed grips, throws, runup, putting stances, putting motion, and use of a mini-marking disc.

Helpful Tips

• Hold the disc firmly without making the hand or wrist stiff.
• Keep fingers placed under the rim for a backhand power grip.
• Use a smooth X-step to build balance and forward motion.
• Keep the X-step controlled rather than fast.
• A backhand throw crosses the front of the body before release.
• A forehand throw uses a sidearm motion.
• An overhand throw travels above the shoulder.
• A rolling shot lands on its edge and rolls along the ground.
• Use rolling shots to pass under branches or around obstacles.
• Face the target with both feet in line for an in-line putt.
• Use a wider side-by-side stance for a straddle putt.
• Keep the putting grip firm enough to control the disc.
• Move the arm smoothly toward the target.
• Follow through toward the basket after releasing the putt.
• Place a mini-marking disc on the line of play at the front edge of the thrown disc.
• Remove the thrown disc after placing the marker.
• Keep all supporting points behind the marker during the throw.
• Check the area before every practice throw.

Resources

• A Throwing Disc (video)
• The X-Step Runup (video)
• The Backhand Shot (video)
• Forehand Shot (video)
• Overhand Shot (video)
• The Rolling Shot (video)
• The Putting Stance (video)
• The Straddle Putt (video)
• Disc Golf Putting Grip (video)
• The Putt (video)
• Using a Mini Marking Disc (video)

Leader Tips

• Demonstrate one skill at a time.
• Give the Scout several attempts before offering a correction.
• Focus on balance, control, and safety before distance.
• Use a field and practice basket when available.

Requirement 2B-6: Play An 18-Hole Round

What You Need To Do

Play at least 18 holes with another disc golfer about your age and an approved adult. Follow PDGA rules, use good etiquette, and respect people and the course.

Helpful Tips

• Bring suitable discs, water, sunscreen, and weather protection.
• Review the course map and local rules before starting.
• Check for people, animals, and other dangers before throwing.
• Wait until the group ahead is safely out of range.
• Throw in the proper order.
• Mark each lie correctly before the next throw.
• Count every throw and penalty throw.
• Record scores after each hole.
• Stay quiet while another player prepares to throw.
• Help search for a lost disc without slowing play for too long.
• Allow faster groups to pass when practical.
• Do not break branches or damage plants.
• Keep away from wildlife.
• Pick up trash and leave the course clean.
• Show patience with new or less-skilled players.
• Thank the other players at the end of the round.

Resources

• Playing a Round of Disc Golf (video)

Leader Tips

• Approve the adult and course before the round.
• Review safety and local course rules before play.
• Let the Scout make rules and etiquette decisions during the round.
• Discuss the round afterward and identify skills for more practice.

Requirement 2B-7: Careers In Disc Golf

What You Need To Do

Research three careers connected with disc golf. Choose one and discuss its education, training, experience, and personal appeal.

Helpful Tips

• A professional player competes in tournaments and may work with sponsors.
• A disc golf instructor helps players improve throwing and putting skills.
• A tournament director plans events, manages registration, and applies rules.
• A course designer plans safe holes, routes, tees, and target locations.
• A course manager handles maintenance, signs, equipment, and player needs.
• A disc designer creates and tests new disc shapes and materials.
• A manufacturing worker produces, checks, or packages discs.
• A media worker records events, takes photographs, or provides commentary.
• A sales representative works with stores, events, and disc golf companies.
• Some jobs require a college degree or technical training.
• Other jobs rely on certifications, tournament work, and playing experience.
• PDGA rules knowledge is useful for instructors and tournament staff.
• Business and communication skills support many disc golf careers.
• Include daily duties, work setting, pay structure, and career path.
• Give clear reasons for choosing the career with the most appeal.

Resources

• Disc Golf as a Career (video)
• Being a Professional Disc Golfer (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage sources from the PDGA and disc golf businesses.
• Invite a local tournament director or course worker to speak.
• Help the Scout compare training and experience for each career.
• Ask which duties fit the Scout’s skills and interests.

More Merit Badge Resources

The Golf merit badge gives Scouts a simple way to learn a classic lifetime sport. It fits well within the full merit badge program because it adds a calm, skill-based activity to a list that includes science, trades, arts, and outdoor skills. Scouts learn rules, safety, and basic techniques. This helps balance the wide range of choices by offering a sport that focuses on control, patience, and steady practice.

It also connects to badges like Athletics, Sports, and Personal Fitness. Scouts who enjoy physical activity or learning new skills often find Golf a good fit. It supports the program’s goal of giving Scouts many ways to grow.

Learn More about Scouts BSA

The Golf merit badge supports the larger goals of Scouts BSA by teaching patience, good judgment, and self-control. These habits help Scouts grow as thoughtful and steady leaders.

It also ties into fitness, citizenship, and personal development. Playing golf builds coordination and healthy movement. Learning etiquette on the course teaches respect and responsibility.

What do I need to know for the Golf merit badge?

To earn the Golf merit badge, you’ll learn about both traditional golf and disc golf. You’ll need to understand the rules, basic skills, and the history of the sport. You’ll also study golf etiquette, safety, and scoring. Playing a full round of golf or disc golf is part of the requirement.

Can I choose between traditional golf and disc golf for this badge?

Yes, the Golf merit badge gives you the option to focus on either traditional golf or disc golf. You’ll still need to learn the fundamentals of the game you choose, including rules, scoring, etiquette, and basic techniques.

Do I need to play a full 18-hole round for the Golf merit badge?

Yes, you must play a minimum of 18 holes, either as one full round or two nine-hole rounds. You can play traditional golf or disc golf, depending on your choice. You’ll need to play with another Scout your age and an approved adult, such as your counselor.

What is golf etiquette, and why is it important?

Golf etiquette means showing respect for other players, the course, and the game itself. Good etiquette includes staying quiet when others are playing, taking care of the course, and being mindful of safety. Practicing golf etiquette is a requirement for the Golf merit badge and shows respect for the sport.

What types of skills do I need to show for the Golf merit badge?

You’ll need to demonstrate key skills, like a proper grip, stance, and putting technique. For traditional golf, this includes different shots with irons, woods, and putters. For disc golf, you’ll need to show throws like backhand, forehand, and putting techniques.

Is there a physical fitness requirement for the Golf merit badge?

While there isn’t a specific fitness requirement, staying active can improve your golf skills. Practicing exercises that strengthen your core, legs, and shoulders can make your golf swing or disc throw stronger and more controlled. Being in shape will help you enjoy the game more.

What types of careers are related to golf and disc golf?

The Golf merit badge covers golf-related careers like golf professionals, course designers, instructors, and event organizers. You can work directly in the sport, like teaching or playing, or in support roles, like media, marketing, or course maintenance.

Why do I need to know the history of golf for the Golf merit badge?

The history of golf helps you understand how the sport developed and what makes it special. Learning about traditional golf’s origins in Scotland or the development of disc golf helps you see how both games became popular worldwide.

How does the Golf merit badge help me in other areas?

The Golf merit badge teaches focus, patience, and respect, which are helpful in many other activities. You’ll learn to set goals, play fairly, and improve through practice. These skills can help you in other sports, teamwork, and even school activities.

Where can I find a place to play for the Golf merit badge?

Many public parks have disc golf courses, often for free. For traditional golf, check with local courses; some offer junior or beginner rates. Your counselor may also have suggestions on where to play.

The Golf merit badge is all about learning the basics of traditional golf or disc golf. Scouts can choose to focus on one of these versions of the game and dive into the techniques, rules, and skills needed to play it well. This badge covers the fundamentals, like grip, stance, swing techniques, and scoring, to help Scouts understand how to play golf confidently.

Understanding golf etiquette is a major part of the Golf merit badge. Scouts learn the importance of staying quiet, respecting the course, and showing sportsmanship. Good golf etiquette makes the game fair and enjoyable for everyone. Safety is also a priority—Scouts need to know how to stay safe on the course and handle common injuries, weather hazards, and other risks.

The Golf merit badge also introduces Scouts to the history of the sport. This includes learning about the origins of traditional golf in Scotland and the rise of disc golf in the United States. Exploring this background gives Scouts a greater appreciation for how golf has grown into a popular international game. Additionally, the Golf merit badge helps Scouts consider golf-related careers and see how the skills learned in the sport can apply to real-world jobs.

Finally, Scouts get hands-on practice by playing a round of golf. They apply their knowledge of rules, scoring, and skills in a real game with other players. This practical experience gives Scouts the chance to test what they’ve learned and enjoy the outdoors.