Bad Day At The Course

[Eileenrush]

I run a group of 28 golfers that have been golfing the Executive courses once a month for the six years. We have always marveled at the friendliness of the staff everywhere, their enthusiasm and their helpfulness. To me, the ambassadors and starter shack staff set the tone and depict what The Villages are all about.

Yesterday, Sunday April 3, we were sadly disappointed. I think the Starter Shack at Mangrove/Sweetgum has changed its mode of operation. It is not a very friendly place! It started, when checking in; a female with a very grim face scrutinized our Golf I.Ds (I wondered if we were on the FBI Most Wanted List) She coldly informed us that we were very early. I explained that I was in charge of the large group that was scheduled and would help to keep them moving. There was no comment, no welcome of any kind and no smile. Our group did go off without any trouble. As the last foursome of the group, we pulled up to the tee box to cheer the group ahead of us off. I guess this is a big no no. The ambassador came running across the street donning a nasty angry face and stated in a very harsh voice that he had not told us that we were up and that we needed to back up to the waiting line. We explained that we were all in the same group and were just cheering on our friends. He got angrier. He said “Back Up! I said, Back Up, I have to keep order here”. Not sure what he thought we were doing. We started to turn around and he yelled again “Back Up.” We backed up the ten yards to the waiting line. This man should not be working with the public. What was gained by his behavior? He certainly left us with a bad taste. Is this the attitude we want to portray in Florida’s friendliest retirement hometown? Not sure who I should register a complaint with so thought I would just vent here.

[Two Bills]

Don't worry, he will be leaving for a new job next week.
He is among the the first draft of the new Villagers Golf Cart anti speeding police:icon_wink:!:icon_wink:

[Bogie Shooter]

I run a group of 28 golfers that have been golfing the Executive courses once a month for the six years. We have always marveled at the friendliness of the staff everywhere, their enthusiasm and their helpfulness. To me, the ambassadors and starter shack staff set the tone and depict what The Villages are all about.

Yesterday, Sunday April 3, we were sadly disappointed. I think the Starter Shack at Mangrove/Sweetgum has changed its mode of operation. It is not a very friendly place! It started, when checking in; a female with a very grim face scrutinized our Golf I.Ds (I wondered if we were on the FBI Most Wanted List) She coldly informed us that we were very early. I explained that I was in charge of the large group that was scheduled and would help to keep them moving. There was no comment, no welcome of any kind and no smile. Our group did go off without any trouble. As the last foursome of the group, we pulled up to the tee box to cheer the group ahead of us off. I guess this is a big no no. The ambassador came running across the street donning a nasty angry face and stated in a very harsh voice that he had not told us that we were up and that we needed to back up to the waiting line. We explained that we were all in the same group and were just cheering on our friends. He got angrier. He said “Back Up! I said, Back Up, I have to keep order here”. Not sure what he thought we were doing. We started to turn around and he yelled again “Back Up.” We backed up the ten yards to the waiting line. This man should not be working with the public. What was gained by his behavior? He certainly left us with a bad taste. Is this the attitude we want to portray in Florida’s friendliest retirement hometown? Not sure who I should register a complaint with so thought I would just vent here.

Start with the pro at the nearest championship course. I was once told the exec’s are under their management.
Agree they both need some “management “.

[VApeople]

As the last foursome of the group, we pulled up to the tee box to cheer the group ahead of us off.

That was a wrong thing to do.

You are supposed to wait at the white line until the previous group is off the green or until the starter tells you to advance to the first tee.

You should have known that.

[MartinSE]

Report it, certainly, but if it was one event, it is possible they had some issues and were not in a good mood because of others giving them a hard time - unlike you.

[Laker14]

I had a similar atypical experience at a rec center earlier in the winter. Long boring story, but in essence, one of the staff was very rude to the assembled pickleballers. I took it up with the head of the Rec Dept. via email, and also the head of the specific Rec Center where it occurred.
There were about 16 of us picklers involved and we all agreed that it was the first time any of us had run into treatment from a rec center staffer that wasn't friendly, helpful and courteous.
I got responses to my letters, and assurances that the employee identified would get "coaching"...OK, whatever their system is it seems to work.
I'd suggest you find whoever is in charge and engage them in a description of your experience. It seems obvious to me that whoever is in charge of training these staffers is motivated to provide friendly, courteous service. I say that because it generally is.

[ThirdOfFive]

I run a group of 28 golfers that have been golfing the Executive courses once a month for the six years. We have always marveled at the friendliness of the staff everywhere, their enthusiasm and their helpfulness. To me, the ambassadors and starter shack staff set the tone and depict what The Villages are all about.

Yesterday, Sunday April 3, we were sadly disappointed. I think the Starter Shack at Mangrove/Sweetgum has changed its mode of operation. It is not a very friendly place! It started, when checking in; a female with a very grim face scrutinized our Golf I.Ds (I wondered if we were on the FBI Most Wanted List) She coldly informed us that we were very early. I explained that I was in charge of the large group that was scheduled and would help to keep them moving. There was no comment, no welcome of any kind and no smile. Our group did go off without any trouble. As the last foursome of the group, we pulled up to the tee box to cheer the group ahead of us off. I guess this is a big no no. The ambassador came running across the street donning a nasty angry face and stated in a very harsh voice that he had not told us that we were up and that we needed to back up to the waiting line. We explained that we were all in the same group and were just cheering on our friends. He got angrier. He said “Back Up! I said, Back Up, I have to keep order here”. Not sure what he thought we were doing. We started to turn around and he yelled again “Back Up.” We backed up the ten yards to the waiting line. This man should not be working with the public. What was gained by his behavior? He certainly left us with a bad taste. Is this the attitude we want to portray in Florida’s friendliest retirement hometown? Not sure who I should register a complaint with so thought I would just vent here.
The reason the toads stand out is because they are so rare. If this were an everyday occurrence we wouldn't be reading about it.

They don't seem to last long. Or if they do it is because they were informed that their act needed cleaning up.

[Stu from NYC]

That was a wrong thing to do.

You are supposed to wait at the white line until the previous group is off the green or until the starter tells you to advance to the first tee.

You should have known that.

Agreed it was wrong but could have asked in a nicer manner.

[drcar]

I run a group of 28 golfers that have been golfing the Executive courses once a month for the six years. We have always marveled at the friendliness of the staff everywhere, their enthusiasm and their helpfulness. To me, the ambassadors and starter shack staff set the tone and depict what The Villages are all about.

Yesterday, Sunday April 3, we were sadly disappointed. I think the Starter Shack at Mangrove/Sweetgum has changed its mode of operation. It is not a very friendly place! It started, when checking in; a female with a very grim face scrutinized our Golf I.Ds (I wondered if we were on the FBI Most Wanted List) She coldly informed us that we were very early. I explained that I was in charge of the large group that was scheduled and would help to keep them moving. There was no comment, no welcome of any kind and no smile. Our group did go off without any trouble. As the last foursome of the group, we pulled up to the tee box to cheer the group ahead of us off. I guess this is a big no no. The ambassador came running across the street donning a nasty angry face and stated in a very harsh voice that he had not told us that we were up and that we needed to back up to the waiting line. We explained that we were all in the same group and were just cheering on our friends. He got angrier. He said “Back Up! I said, Back Up, I have to keep order here”. Not sure what he thought we were doing. We started to turn around and he yelled again “Back Up.” We backed up the ten yards to the waiting line. This man should not be working with the public. What was gained by his behavior? He certainly left us with a bad taste. Is this the attitude we want to portray in Florida’s friendliest retirement hometown? Not sure who I should register a complaint with so thought I would just vent here.

I understand your wanting to vent, but you need to call the facility that over sees that course. Call Evans Prairie and ask for the manager.

[ThirdOfFive]

Agreed it was wrong but could have asked in a nicer manner.
Civility is something that is becoming more and more rare.

Some years back I was at the ticket counter of Minneapolis - St. Paul airport being "helped" by a Delta counter agent who had obviously had urine-soaked corn flakes for breakfast. Needing to get past him in order to get to my flight I put up with his vitriol, but once past him I said in a loud voice (loud enough for a lot of fellow passengers to hear) "give a joker a uniform and minimum wage, and he thinks he owns the world".

It got a round of applause.

[Marathon Man]

You seem to indicate that this was the first occurrence of this kind. Why not take a deep breath and let it go? I think that you will be feel better than trying to pursue a problem that may never happen again.

[Tvflguy]

Had a few occurrences of Barnie or Barbie Fife at a starter shack or ambassadors. Fortunately a rarity. Human nature and perhaps feelings of Authority and Power. As most anytime in the public.

[Laker14]

That was a wrong thing to do.

You are supposed to wait at the white line until the previous group is off the green or until the starter tells you to advance to the first tee.

You should have known that.

Well, wow... a big crime was committed here, no doubt. I suspect that the reason for the rule is so that people teeing off aren't bothered or intimidated by the next group in line. I can't see any reason for making a big deal out of it other than to protect the group on the tee from being bothered by the next groups.
Once it was explained what the situation was, the starter could have either gently explained WHY it's not allowed, or just let it go.

There was certainly no need for the starter to get his panties in a knot over this terrible (note sarcasm there, please) infraction.

[Laker14]

Had a few occurrences of Barnie or Barbie Fife at a starter shack or ambassadors. Fortunately a rarity. Human nature and perhaps feelings of Authority and Power. As most anytime in the public.

Some people have very little authority and are hell-bent on using every bit of it.

[vintageogauge]

Everyone deserves a second chance.

[Laker14]

Everyone deserves a second chance.

True, but the second chance is more likely to go well with a bit of coaching from the bosses.

[dnobles]

It is very rare. We had a starter at Pelican give my husband a hard time about his shirt. His shirt was a Henley shirt. It’s on the approved list. We took it up with the tee time office and they assured us it was an approved shirt and would speak to him. I have a great relationship with most starters and ambassadors on the courses I golf on. There’re great people.

[Laker14]

It is very rare. We had a starter at Pelican give my husband a hard time about his shirt. His shirt was a Henley shirt. It’s on the approved list. We took it up with the tee time office and they assured us it was an approved shirt and would speak to him. I have a great relationship with most starters and ambassadors on the courses I golf on. There’re great people.

My foursome played Silver Lake a couple of Sundays ago and as we finished the ambassador came up to us and thanked us for playing their course. As you say, it's almost always a good experience.

[davem4616]

Some people have very little authority and are hell-bent on using every bit of it.


yup...they're out there....thankfully not a lot of them though

[Keefelane66]

I run a group of 28 golfers that have been golfing the Executive courses once a month for the six years. We have always marveled at the friendliness of the staff everywhere, their enthusiasm and their helpfulness. To me, the ambassadors and starter shack staff set the tone and depict what The Villages are all about.

Yesterday, Sunday April 3, we were sadly disappointed. I think the Starter Shack at Mangrove/Sweetgum has changed its mode of operation. It is not a very friendly place! It started, when checking in; a female with a very grim face scrutinized our Golf I.Ds (I wondered if we were on the FBI Most Wanted List) She coldly informed us that we were very early. I explained that I was in charge of the large group that was scheduled and would help to keep them moving. There was no comment, no welcome of any kind and no smile. Our group did go off without any trouble. As the last foursome of the group, we pulled up to the tee box to cheer the group ahead of us off. I guess this is a big no no. The ambassador came running across the street donning a nasty angry face and stated in a very harsh voice that he had not told us that we were up and that we needed to back up to the waiting line. We explained that we were all in the same group and were just cheering on our friends. He got angrier. He said “Back Up! I said, Back Up, I have to keep order here”. Not sure what he thought we were doing. We started to turn around and he yelled again “Back Up.” We backed up the ten yards to the waiting line. This man should not be working with the public. What was gained by his behavior? He certainly left us with a bad taste. Is this the attitude we want to portray in Florida’s friendliest retirement hometown? Not sure who I should register a complaint with so thought I would just vent here.
You could have told him “I’m a Villager and I have power” my brother in law uses it all the time whether it works or not he seems to think so.

[I'm Popeye!]

You need to hire a Goon for your group in order to keep those power hungry Starters and Ambassadors in check, I’m available... :1rotfl:

[wisbad1]

I run a group of 28 golfers that have been golfing the Executive courses once a month for the six years. We have always marveled at the friendliness of the staff everywhere, their enthusiasm and their helpfulness. To me, the ambassadors and starter shack staff set the tone and depict what The Villages are all about.

Yesterday, Sunday April 3, we were sadly disappointed. I think the Starter Shack at Mangrove/Sweetgum has changed its mode of operation. It is not a very friendly place! It started, when checking in; a female with a very grim face scrutinized our Golf I.Ds (I wondered if we were on the FBI Most Wanted List) She coldly informed us that we were very early. I explained that I was in charge of the large group that was scheduled and would help to keep them moving. There was no comment, no welcome of any kind and no smile. Our group did go off without any trouble. As the last foursome of the group, we pulled up to the tee box to cheer the group ahead of us off. I guess this is a big no no. The ambassador came running across the street donning a nasty angry face and stated in a very harsh voice that he had not told us that we were up and that we needed to back up to the waiting line. We explained that we were all in the same group and were just cheering on our friends. He got angrier. He said “Back Up! I said, Back Up, I have to keep order here”. Not sure what he thought we were doing. We started to turn around and he yelled again “Back Up.” We backed up the ten yards to the waiting line. This man should not be working with the public. What was gained by his behavior? He certainly left us with a bad taste. Is this the attitude we want to portray in Florida’s friendliest retirement hometown? Not sure who I should register a complaint with so thought I would just vent here.
No golf for you! Golf nazi.

[Rwirish]

Don’t see the issue if you would have followed the rules.

[banjobob]

Play on ,move on , get over it, forget it , nobody cares you treated badly. The starter and ambassadors were from NYC.

[Petersweeney]

Don’t see the issue if you would have followed the rules.

Part of the new broken windows policy…. If the starter didn’t intervene your group probably would have committed felonies on the rest of the course…..

[paulajr]

I run a group of 28 golfers that have been golfing the Executive courses once a month for the six years. We have always marveled at the friendliness of the staff everywhere, their enthusiasm and their helpfulness. To me, the ambassadors and starter shack staff set the tone and depict what The Villages are all about.

Yesterday, Sunday April 3, we were sadly disappointed. I think the Starter Shack at Mangrove/Sweetgum has changed its mode of operation. It is not a very friendly place! It started, when checking in; a female with a very grim face scrutinized our Golf I.Ds (I wondered if we were on the FBI Most Wanted List) She coldly informed us that we were very early. I explained that I was in charge of the large group that was scheduled and would help to keep them moving. There was no comment, no welcome of any kind and no smile. Our group did go off without any trouble. As the last foursome of the group, we pulled up to the tee box to cheer the group ahead of us off. I guess this is a big no no. The ambassador came running across the street donning a nasty angry face and stated in a very harsh voice that he had not told us that we were up and that we needed to back up to the waiting line. We explained that we were all in the same group and were just cheering on our friends. He got angrier. He said “Back Up! I said, Back Up, I have to keep order here”. Not sure what he thought we were doing. We started to turn around and he yelled again “Back Up.” We backed up the ten yards to the waiting line. This man should not be working with the public. What was gained by his behavior? He certainly left us with a bad taste. Is this the attitude we want to portray in Florida’s friendliest retirement hometown? Not sure who I should register a complaint with so thought I would just vent here.

Wow..this must have really gotten your panties in a knot..you posted the identical thing all over the place!!
Your group broke the rules…you got your feelings hurt.
Starters are REQUIRED to closely check ID’s especially for people who show up “once a month” who they aren’t familiar with. You are REQUIRED to wait at the white line until the starter tells you to go. So…your complaints are negated by the fact that your once a month group ignored the rules that the people working there are paid to enforce. Chill…enjoy your game. Or better yet, get a job at the course, deal with people who don’t think the rules apply to them, and check back here after….

[MrFlorida]

I played there last week, that same lady was very friendly and nice, maybe you ticked them off by not following the rules ?

[tophcfa]

Whenever your having a bad day at the course, just remember, it’s still way better than a good day at work : )

[OhioBuckeye]

Yea I hear you, sounds like the starters & ambassadors are getting to be little gods, LOL. Believe me I’m not picking on you but when we lived there in Charlotte the guy that ran our Executive Leagues had I’m guessing 50 to 60 people & he did this at least once a week & never heard him ever gone through what you are. Guess you’ll have to be more patient, LOL. I’m thinking it’ll get worse not better. Hang in there!

[GayleJenkins]

I believe the people in the shack are always confused. We watched a worker run after a cart yelling. The cart turned around and said we’re done golfing. We’re leaving!! The older gentleman gets very confused

[kendi]

6 years of bliss. Why worry about one bad day.

[Watchdr@yahoo.com]

When the starter heard they were all in the same group, the tone should have backed off a bit. I know there is rules but there is also common sense. Golf is supposed to be fun, especially on the executive courses. Give some a little power and they think they run the world.

[Mortal1]

That was a wrong thing to do.

You are supposed to wait at the white line until the previous group is off the green or until the starter tells you to advance to the first tee.

You should have known that.

the starter if it was okay to pull behind as they were in the same group. not all course starters have the same process. they should, but they do not. asking is easy and it's amazing how many villagers just take it for granted that because some starters allow it they must all allow it.

assumptions not required

[golfing eagles]

No golf for you! Golf nazi.

OMG!!!! You used the "N" word!!! (not the other one). You used it as a JOKE and in reference to Seinfeld!!!! Beware, there is a certain "blue" poster, who if consistent, will now jump down your throat, call you a racist and a bigot, tell you that you're a horrible person, etc, etc, etc ad nauseum. I'm surprised we haven't heard from her already. And if you make another such joke, God help you!

[Laker14]

Don’t see the issue if you would have followed the rules.

Well, then, I'll explain it to you.

The starters and ambassadors are there to facilitate play, and to help people have fun on the courses. They are not paid to yell at people, or treat players rudely, EVEN IF, yes, even if a rule has been broken.
Does that help you to understand the "issue"?

Is it a big deal? Nope. But it is not the way things should be run, and it should be corrected.
Among the possible responses by the OP, probably the best was to rant on TOTV. Many people would have gotten hot right back at the starter, and that would have ruined the day.

[Flyers999]

You need to hire a Goon for your group in order to keep those power hungry Starters and Ambassadors in check, I’m available... :1rotfl:
Careful. Some of those Ambassadors are pretty tough.
:1rotfl:

[Larchap49]

I run a group of 28 golfers that have been golfing the Executive courses once a month for the six years. We have always marveled at the friendliness of the staff everywhere, their enthusiasm and their helpfulness. To me, the ambassadors and starter shack staff set the tone and depict what The Villages are all about.

Yesterday, Sunday April 3, we were sadly disappointed. I think the Starter Shack at Mangrove/Sweetgum has changed its mode of operation. It is not a very friendly place! It started, when checking in; a female with a very grim face scrutinized our Golf I.Ds (I wondered if we were on the FBI Most Wanted List) She coldly informed us that we were very early. I explained that I was in charge of the large group that was scheduled and would help to keep them moving. There was no comment, no welcome of any kind and no smile. Our group did go off without any trouble. As the last foursome of the group, we pulled up to the tee box to cheer the group ahead of us off. I guess this is a big no no. The ambassador came running across the street donning a nasty angry face and stated in a very harsh voice that he had not told us that we were up and that we needed to back up to the waiting line. We explained that we were all in the same group and were just cheering on our friends. He got angrier. He said “Back Up! I said, Back Up, I have to keep order here”. Not sure what he thought we were doing. We started to turn around and he yelled again “Back Up.” We backed up the ten yards to the waiting line. This man should not be working with the public. What was gained by his behavior? He certainly left us with a bad taste. Is this the attitude we want to portray in Florida’s friendliest retirement hometown? Not sure who I should register a complaint with so thought I would just vent here.

Very simple ask his name, ask to see Village I'd card, call Village official immediately. Bet you get an apology before the dialing is done, but call anyway he doesn't deserve any slack.

[Stu from NYC]

The OP cannot let this go.

In addition to here there are over 100 comments on next door. Is this the biggest problem in your life?

[asianthree]

OP we play in 3 different groups, with as many if not more players. Guessing our groups are very different, and rule oriented.

No offense but driving up before starters sends you out is rude. Not only to the foursome in front of you, but to those behind you. If you think they need you to encourage or instruct them, then you might want to apply for a job as an instructor.

My father taught me golf, he was old school, rules were to be followed.

[Laker14]

OP we play in 3 different groups, with as many if not more players. Guessing our groups are very different, and rule oriented.

No offense but driving up before starters sends you out is rude. Not only to the foursome in front of you, but to those behind you. If you think they need you to encourage or instruct them, then you might want to apply for a job as an instructor.

My father taught me golf, he was old school, rules were to be followed.

My father taught me that kindness and tact is a better instructor than rancor.

[Marathon Man]

Well, then, I'll explain it to you.

The starters and ambassadors are there to facilitate play, and to help people have fun on the courses. They are not paid to yell at people, or treat players rudely, EVEN IF, yes, even if a rule has been broken.
Does that help you to understand the "issue"?

Is it a big deal? Nope. But it is not the way things should be run, and it should be corrected.
Among the possible responses by the OP, probably the best was to rant on TOTV. Many people would have gotten hot right back at the starter, and that would have ruined the day.

WOW!!!! Too much coffee?

[Laker14]

WOW!!!! Too much coffee?

not at all, thanks for the concern. Just trying to help people see that having broken a rule (and a very minor infraction, at that) does not give license to others to be nasty.
There is simply no need, nor justification for it.

There have been many responses that indicate that it was OK for the employees of the starter shack to be abusive, simply because a rule was broken. I'm just trying to explain that is not the case. That is not their job, nor their license.

There is also no need to assume or suggest that my encouragement towards tact and civility over nastiness is the result of a chemical imbalance.

Stay nice, smile. Be friendly. It greases the wheels of our community. Makes things run so much more smoothly, don't you think?

[Papa_lecki]

The OP cannot let this go.

In addition to here there are over 100 comments on next door. Is this the biggest problem in your life?

I love all the comments, like they know what’s going on the in the starter’s life. Yes, starter could have been nicer…. BUT
what if the day before he or his spouse get a bad medical diagnosis?
What if it was the 1 year anniversary of their spouse’s death?
What if their son/daughter/grandkids (who they hadn’t seen in 2 years because of COVID) left the day before?

It easy to throw stones, but consider everything.

AND BTW, golf etiquette says, you don’t cheer on the first tee box (unless it’s the Waste Management Open)

[Laker14]

I love all the comments, like they know what’s going on the in the starter’s life. Yes, starter could have been nicer…. BUT
what if the day before he or his spouse get a bad medical diagnosis?
What if it was the 1 year anniversary of their spouse’s death?
What if their son/daughter/grandkids (who they hadn’t seen in 2 years because of COVID) left the day before?

It easy to throw stones, but consider everything.

AND BTW, golf etiquette says, you don’t cheer on the first tee box (unless it’s the Waste Management Open)

That's why I think the OP handled it properly, by not getting back into the face of the starter. There may well be other issues that set the person off like that, and it's not the OP's job to figure it out. However, the starter's supervisor might well know about these things, or, may well know that this is a recurring problem with this particular employee and has nothing to do with external problems. I don't know, you don't know, and the OP doesn't know.
Either way, it really doesn't change the appropriate course of action.
And yes, we all agree that a rule was broken by the OP. He/she acknowledges that.

[golfing eagles]

I love all the comments, like they know what’s going on the in the starter’s life. Yes, starter could have been nicer…. BUT
what if the day before he or his spouse get a bad medical diagnosis?
What if it was the 1 year anniversary of their spouse’s death?
What if their son/daughter/grandkids (who they hadn’t seen in 2 years because of COVID) left the day before?

It easy to throw stones, but consider everything.

AND BTW, golf etiquette says, you don’t cheer on the first tee box (unless it’s the Waste Management Open)

That would be the 16th hole:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Joeint]

No white line on holes 2-9 waiting on the tee there doesn't seem to cause a problem...

[EviesGP]

I used to work as a Starter there(alone, without a partner for about 4 months), and I frequently had linked groups. I asked who the coordinator was, and once their first tee time was up, I asked him/her to "line them up". Although I didn't necessarily let them all stack up on the first tee, as long as they didn't block access, I let them ENJOY THEMSELVES?! I also allowed him/her to switch around whomever, as long as it was within their tee time(s). The only time I engaged them, was when they all stacked up and parked on the 9th hole, waiting for their groups to finish. I politely asked them to move away from the green(for both grass damage and safety), which they complied without complaint. OP, you need to call Evans Prairie and speak with the Pro. He needs to hear this. Before, during, and after my employment(no longer working TV Golf & Tennis), I experienced many different personalities, and wondered why/how some people were allowed to work there?!

[JMintzer]

No white line on holes 2-9 waiting on the tee there doesn't seem to cause a problem...

But, etiquette says you're supposed to wait when you leave the green, between the green and the next Tee, until the group in front of you tees off...

You're not supposed to drive up to the next tee box and "cheer people on"...

(or in plain speak, "socialize"...)

[Laker14]

But, etiquette says you're supposed to wait when you leave the green, between the green and the next Tee, until the group in front of you tees off...

You're not supposed to drive up to the next tee box and "cheer people on"...

(or in plain speak, "socialize"...)

exactly! When we play our championship course days, we usually have 3 or 4 foursomes. While we would never drive up to the next tee if there were strangers waiting to tee off, we often do it if the players on the next tee are from our larger contingent. We visit for a moment, razz a bit, and kill a little time while the hold-up works itself out.
No harm done. It's a pleasant exchange totally appropriate among friends.

I doubt many, if any, ambassadors would care one whit about it. Some rules are meant to be a bit flexible.

[thelegges]

Just had this experience today, where the foursome behind us left the line after starter tried to hold them up, and drove to the tee box before we hit.

Didn't know them, they stood outside their carts in a yelling conversation about where to go for lunch. First two Hit through the noise, 3 asked them to stop talking. Didnt stop, I waited staring at them. One finally looked up and yelled you need to hit.

Smiling I said soon as You shut the h*** up I will. Lack of golf etiquette or just 4 jerks, u decide

[Laker14]

Just had this experience today, where the foursome behind us left the line after starter tried to hold them up, and drove to the tee box before we hit.

Didn't know them, they stood outside their carts in a yelling conversation about where to go for lunch. First two Hit through the noise, 3 asked them to stop talking. Didnt stop, I waited staring at them. One finally looked up and yelled you need to hit.

Smiling I said soon as You shut the h*** up I will. Lack of golf etiquette or just 4 jerks, u decide

Both!

Your experience is exactly why the line is there, and the rule exists for the next group to stay behind it. That would have been an appropriate time for the starter to come down and politely explain to the transgressors that they must move back to the other side of the line.

[Pairadocs]

I run a group of 28 golfers that have been golfing the Executive courses once a month for the six years. We have always marveled at the friendliness of the staff everywhere, their enthusiasm and their helpfulness. To me, the ambassadors and starter shack staff set the tone and depict what The Villages are all about.

Yesterday, Sunday April 3, we were sadly disappointed. I think the Starter Shack at Mangrove/Sweetgum has changed its mode of operation. It is not a very friendly place! It started, when checking in; a female with a very grim face scrutinized our Golf I.Ds (I wondered if we were on the FBI Most Wanted List) She coldly informed us that we were very early. I explained that I was in charge of the large group that was scheduled and would help to keep them moving. There was no comment, no welcome of any kind and no smile. Our group did go off without any trouble. As the last foursome of the group, we pulled up to the tee box to cheer the group ahead of us off. I guess this is a big no no. The ambassador came running across the street donning a nasty angry face and stated in a very harsh voice that he had not told us that we were up and that we needed to back up to the waiting line. We explained that we were all in the same group and were just cheering on our friends. He got angrier. He said “Back Up! I said, Back Up, I have to keep order here”. Not sure what he thought we were doing. We started to turn around and he yelled again “Back Up.” We backed up the ten yards to the waiting line. This man should not be working with the public. What was gained by his behavior? He certainly left us with a bad taste. Is this the attitude we want to portray in Florida’s friendliest retirement hometown? Not sure who I should register a complaint with so thought I would just vent here.

It happens, happens here, happens most places at one time or another. Happens at "nice" hotels and happens at "nice" restaurants. There will always be a certain number of people who (have one type or another of personality/self-esteem issue) HAVE to feel important and actually lack the skills needed to be "in charge" and yet not have to demand compliance. In it's most simple form, it's called theory "X", theory "Y" management. Had a starter once demand I get into the cart of a man smoking a very large cigar. I declined very very politely, and replied I would just take my own cart. He said, NO WAY, 2 carts for every FOUR PEOPLE, PERIOD. I said, no, smoke really bothered me too much, he pointed out GOLF is played OUTSIDE... so insulting. He came out the back door of the small starter shack, walked around the side to FACE ME, reached into his pocket, took out a cigarette, lighted it, and then after taking a deep drag of it, blow the smoke right into my face saying, "make up your mind, do you want to play or not?". I said, no, very meekly, never protested or got angry or raised my voice in any way. I told him it was fine, I'd just go home. I did go directly to the golf office which was on Wedgwood at the time I believe. I did have to wait to talk to any other than the secretary receptionist at the desk, but I waited it out, and finally was able to calmly relate, unemotionally, exactly how I had been treated with NO aggression on my part at all ! I was told the individual (I had first name and was from state of Virginia according to his pin) would be contacted for "further training". I told them my honest opinion was the individual would never have done this to a male... he probably feared that kind of bullying to another male could end in actual physical altercation ! The guy with the cigar got a HUGE kick out of it all, he and the starter "seemed" to know each other, or, perhaps they had some other link, I'll never know. When the Covid came along, I had to laugh to myself thinking how there were NO EXCEPTIONS to the four people two cart rule for ANY reason.... walked that one back fast didn't they... LOL ! Yep, the world if FULL of theory "X" mangers (meaning, their view is, people are by nature going to take advantage and manipulate, so you have to CLAMP DOWN ON THEM IMMEDIATELY, never listen or consider the circumstances !

[Laker14]

It happens, happens here, happens most places at one time or another. Happens at "nice" hotels and happens at "nice" restaurants. There will always be a certain number of people who (have one type or another of personality/self-esteem issue) HAVE to feel important and actually lack the skills needed to be "in charge" and yet not have to demand compliance. In it's most simple form, it's called theory "X", theory "Y" management. Had a starter once demand I get into the cart of a man smoking a very large cigar. I declined very very politely, and replied I would just take my own cart. He said, NO WAY, 2 carts for every FOUR PEOPLE, PERIOD. I said, no, smoke really bothered me too much, he pointed out GOLF is played OUTSIDE... so insulting. He came out the back door of the small starter shack, walked around the side to FACE ME, reached into his pocket, took out a cigarette, lighted it, and then after taking a deep drag of it, blow the smoke right into my face saying, "make up your mind, do you want to play or not?". I said, no, very meekly, never protested or got angry or raised my voice in any way. I told him it was fine, I'd just go home. I did go directly to the golf office which was on Wedgwood at the time I believe. I did have to wait to talk to any other than the secretary receptionist at the desk, but I waited it out, and finally was able to calmly relate, unemotionally, exactly how I had been treated with NO aggression on my part at all ! I was told the individual (I had first name and was from state of Virginia according to his pin) would be contacted for "further training". I told them my honest opinion was the individual would never have done this to a male... he probably feared that kind of bullying to another male could end in actual physical altercation ! The guy with the cigar got a HUGE kick out of it all, he and the starter "seemed" to know each other, or, perhaps they had some other link, I'll never know. When the Covid came along, I had to laugh to myself thinking how there were NO EXCEPTIONS to the four people two cart rule for ANY reason.... walked that one back fast didn't they... LOL ! Yep, the world if FULL of theory "X" mangers (meaning, their view is, people are by nature going to take advantage and manipulate, so you have to CLAMP DOWN ON THEM IMMEDIATELY, never listen or consider the circumstances !

I think you are indeed correct in your assumption that he wouldn't have done that to a guy, or at least, not to a guy who he felt could have kicked is ass.
When you had your conversation with the golf office, did you get any further information as to whether the starter was even correct about not letting multiple carts out? Even pre-Covid, I was told it was OK, and allowed to ride alone, making 3 carts in a 4-some, as long as only 2 carts were ever in a fairway at one time. It wasn't my idea. I was a 4th filling a group of 3 guys who knew each other and nobody wanted to ride with me. I wasn't smoking a cigar, either. Heck, I'd even bathed that week, so I don't know what the issue was.