To replace or not to replace your divots?

A divot is the piece of sod that is displaced when the club strikes the ground and leaves a scraped depression in the soil below.I have had some interesting questions arise lately about the divot. Do you replace it or not? Do you fill the void with sand? Do you even care?Since the day I started playing golf, I was told to replace my divots by picking up as much of the turf as I could and filling in the hole. I looked at it as being part of a good shot, and it was my responsibility to care for the course — it was basic etiquette.Sometimes the divot broke apart and it was tough to replace any turf — especially if it was Bermuda grass. You did the best you could to clean up the area, and that was sufficient.Well, times have changed. Today some courses don't want you to replace divots because the mowers will lift it back out on mow day. They would rather have you use some sand and seed to fill in the hole. This will cause the grass to grow back faster.Most courses these days have sand and seed bottles on the carts to help accomplish this task. I personally feel this is the best way to fill in divots. If you're walking, remember to do your part to either replace your divots or use another player's sand and seed bottle.Now, the debatable issue in the game is whether that sand-filled area should be deemed "ground under repair." It is difficult to strike a ball solidly when it is sitting on sand.I feel the USGA should change the rule and define a sand filled divot as ground under repair, allowing a free drop if you land in one. It only seems reasonable and fair that you should have a good lie if you've hit the fairway. Until they change the rule, however, you'll have to play the ball as it lies, so here is a tip to help you achieve solid contact. I make only one adjustment in my set-up, and that is to move the ball approximately one inch further back in my stance. This allows me to strike the ball more solidly and control the shot.I don't have to change my swing, just the set-up. Try this next time you're in a sand filled divot and see if your contact improves.May is Free Lesson MonthThroughout the month of May, PGA professionals nationwide are conducting free 10-minute lessons to help you improve your game or perhaps get you started.In support of this effort, The Ridge has declared May 20 as its FREE free 10-minute lessons day. Lessons will start at 2 p.m. Space is limited.Call The Ridge at the number below for more information.Shawn Kelly is a PGA professional at The Ridge Golf Club. He can be reached for questions or lessons at (530) 888-PUTT.