Ask how the golfer prefers to communicate and how you should gain their attention.
Ask how the golfer communicates
Deaf golfers are not a single group. Begin by understanding the individual, their preferred language and the support that will make the session work.
Begin with your usual coaching approach
Coach the golfer, not the hearing loss. Ask before making assumptions, then agree how you will gain attention, explain tasks and check understanding.
AskHow would you like us to communicate?
AgreeHow should I gain your attention?
CheckWould an interpreter or visual support help?
Understand the golfer
Some golfers use sign language, some lip-read, some use speech, and others combine methods. Do not assume that every deaf golfer communicates in the same way.
Ask whether the golfer uses British Sign Language (BSL), another sign language, speech, lip-reading, written information, captions or a combination. Avoid relying on lip-reading because not everyone can or chooses to use it.
Ask
“What is the clearest way for us to communicate during the session?”
Hearing aids and cochlear implants do not create typical hearing. Wind, distance and background noise can still make communication difficult. Ask what the golfer can hear and in which settings.
Some deaf golfers may also experience balance difficulties or another disability. Ask what is relevant to golf and what support is useful, without making assumptions based on appearance.
Communicate clearly and create a safe environment
Good communication and safety rely on the same foundations: attention, line of sight, clear demonstrations and agreed visual signals. Before the first shot, make sure the golfer, coach, interpreter and other players understand the agreed communication and safety signals.
Gain attention first
Use an agreed visual signal or a light touch on the shoulder before giving information.
Face the golfer
Keep your face visible, use good lighting and avoid speaking while turned away.
Demonstrate before practice
Show the complete task, pause, then invite the golfer to try.
Check understanding
Ask the golfer to demonstrate or explain the intended task in their preferred method.
Work with interpreters
Speak directly to the golfer and allow time to look between the interpreter, coach, equipment and target.
Agree warning signals
Decide how “fore”, vehicle movement, stoppages and emergencies will be communicated.
Maintain line of sight
Position the coach and group so the golfer can see others before anyone hits.
Make alerts visible
Use clear visual cues and ensure every member of the group understands them.
Brief the wider group
Explain the agreed attention and safety signals before the first shot.
Sign language video library
Search by phrase or choose a topic. Every video plays directly within the page, so coaches can learn without leaving the resource. Use the signs as a practical starting point. Sign language differs between countries and communities, so confirm the golfer’s preferred language and communication method.
Choose a category and then a phrase. The selected sign plays in the main video window.
Video library
Select a phrase
Select a category and phrase above. The chosen sign will play here without opening a separate page.
Open this video on YouTubePlan the session
Build communication into the session from the outset so the golfer can participate confidently and independently.
Contact the golfer where possible and establish how they prefer to communicate before coaching begins.
- Ask how the golfer communicates and which methods work best.
- Confirm whether an interpreter or communication support person will attend.
- Choose a well-lit position with a clear line of sight and limited background distraction.
- Prepare visual targets, written keywords and demonstrations.
- Agree signals for gaining attention, pausing activity and responding to safety concerns.
Allow the golfer to see the full message before asking them to move or begin the task.
- Maintain a clear line of sight and avoid speaking while turning away.
- Demonstrate before asking the golfer to perform the movement.
- Give one clear instruction at a time.
- Use concise language, visual cues and written keywords where helpful.
- Check understanding through demonstration or action rather than relying only on a verbal response.
Review the communication approach with the golfer and retain the practical details that will support future sessions.
- Ask which communication methods and visual cues were most useful.
- Record useful signs, keywords and attention signals.
- Share a short written or visual practice plan.
- Confirm arrangements and communication support for the next lesson.
- Invite the golfer to identify anything that would improve the coaching environment.