Faldoscaddy:these are just a few things i have experienced since being here,great game if things were fair.
I'm not saying this applies to you, but new players should consider the following.
For some, predicaments arise when they don't understanding the consequences of a rapidly lowering average...unfortunately, it's something many learn the hard way and there's no going back. From the start, be aware of the pitfalls that cause advancement beyond capabilities and available equipment. I am not talking about sandbagging here...only the wise management of our game to avoid the paradox of moving up too fast, only to then be left behind.
Here are some things I think new players should know from the start:
1. Play all the courses...not just the easy ones.
2. Play more 18 hole rounds and fewer 9 hole rounds. Yes, it's easier to post lower scores on 9 hole rounds, but it can artificially lower your average that can get new players into trouble later.
3. Enter tournaments with varying conditions.
4. Play in some single play tournaments where scores are generally higher.
5. Be mindful of Country Club tournaments.
These tournaments are created by it's members with easier conditions that can lower averages even more.
6. Most importantly, finish all your rounds and post all your scores...don't cherry pick your best scores.
Joey