How to Become a PGA Caddy

Many golfers will never break 80, but they still daydream about "walking between the ropes." Walking next to every professional player is another working professional--his caddy. Those who closely follow golf are well aware than the player-caddy relationship is often crucial to success. What many people do not know is that anyone can become a PGA caddy, even on the day a tournament begins. But it is not quite that simple.

Instructions

1. Learn about caddying at a local country club that has a caddy program or a caddy school. Explore the world of caddying at the Web site of the Professional Caddies Association.

2. Work as a caddy as a summer job or even full time job at year around resorts.

3. Network wherever you caddy or play. In the effort to become a PGA caddy, developing contacts is critical.

4. Consider trying to find employment on the Nationwide Tour, the Hooter's Tour or even the European Tour. Competition is not as keen for caddy positions on these tours, and hooking up with a young professional on his way to the PGA Tour is a possibility.

5. Make yourself available because an opportunity may arise at any moment. This may mean working in jobs other than caddying to remain close to the game.

Tips & Warnings

• The rough estimate for a salary for a PGA caddy is 10 per cent of a player's winnings. There is an unwritten rule that players will try to provide a minimum living expense even if they do not cash at a tournament. Likewise, should a professional win a tournament, there is often a bonus.

• PGA caddies are truly freelance operators. They are hired by a PGA professional, and employed solely by the professional. There is not a great deal of job security.