Caddie Tales

It has been a rapid learning experience for the new recruits, none of whom had previous caddie experience. They had to be taught what the game is about from the ground up – its history, all about clubs and balls, etiquette, interaction with players, holding the flag, ‘reading’ a green and, for some, the most challenging task of all, driving a golf cart.

"We have had to start from ground zero in developing a training manual and then implementing all aspects of it to ensure our caddies are as proficient as anywhere else. This provides gainful employment to these young women who otherwise would have limited job opportunities," continued Haddon.

Daily English classes are part of the training, which takes three months before caddies are fully conversant and comfortable with their role.

Lang Co locals, Thao Nguyen, 21, and Quyen Dang, 20, jumped at the chance to become a caddie when the opportunity arose.

"I want to learn new things, like golf knowledge and English skills," says Thao who graduated from a tourism college in Hue before joining Laguna Lang Co, and previously knew nothing about golf. If she hadn't become a caddie, she says she would have been a receptionist or tour guide. After two rounds of caddying, she found the job not as daunting as she had expected.

Quyen was studying at a tourism school in Danang when she heard about the job opportunity at Laguna Lang Co.

Professing to be nervous about the prospect of accompanying golfers around the course, Quyen had yet to put her training into action when interviewed during Laguna Lang Co’s pre-opening period.

She rated her priorities as securing on-the-job knowledge and experience and developing a strong work ethic.

For Haddon and Golf Club Manager Darren Robson, opening of the course with a full complement of caddies is the culmination of a two-year process that included the purchase of more than 1,000 line items including maintenance equipment to turn the golf course into a playable reality.

"This has been a huge task, but a very fulfilling one," Haddon said. "We feel a sense of accomplishment to see the community in their caddie uniforms with confidence to get out on the course. This is the end of one part of the process, but the start of another as we begin welcoming players to the course."