WHAT IS SPORTSMANSHIP?

NSAA Suggestions To Teach Sportsmanship

As the 2007-2008 school activities begin, the Nebraska School Activities Association reminds parents, fans, and students that good sportsmanship is expected at activities.  The following article comes from the sportsmanship manual from the NSAA.  What is sportsmanship?  ...playing fair,...following the rules of the game,....respecting the judgment of referees and officials,...treating opponents with respect.

The Fundamentals Of Sportsmanship

One thing needs to be remembered -- many people have not had Good Sportsmanship explained to them. Hopefully, the following will help everyone to understand their responsibilities at an athletic contest.

1.            Gain an Understanding and Appreciation for the Rules of the Contest.

The necessity to be well informed is essential. Know the rules. If you are uninformed, refrain from expressing opinions on officials, coaches, or administrative decisions. The spirit of Good Sportsmanship

depends on conformance to a rule’s intent as well as to the letter of a given rule.

2.            Exercise Representative Behavior at All Times.

A prerequisite to Good Sportsmanship requires one to understand his/her own prejudices that may become factors in his/her behavior. The true value of interscholastic competition relies upon everyone exhibiting behavior that is representative of a sound value base. A proper perspective must be maintained if the educational values are to be realized. Your behavior influences others whether you are aware of it or not.

3.            Recognize and Appreciate Skilled Performances Regardless of Affiliation.

Applause for an opponent’s good performance displays generosity and is a courtesy that should be regularly practiced. This not only represents Good Sportsmanship, but also reflects a true awareness of the game by recognizing and acknowledging quality.

4.            Exhibit Respect for the Officials.

The officials of any contest are impartial arbitrators who are trained and who perform to the best of their ability. Mistakes by all those involved in the contests are a part of the game. We should not rationalize our own poor or unsuccessful performance or behavior by placing responsibility on an official. The rule of Good Sportsmanship is to accept and abide by the decision made. This value is critical for students to learn for later applications in life.

5.            Display Openly a Respect for the Opponent at All Times.

Opponents are guests and should be treated cordially, provided with the best accommodations, and accorded tolerance at all times. Be a positive representative for your school, team, or family. This fundamental is the Golden Rule in action.

6.            Display Pride in Your Actions at Every Opportunity.

Never allow your ego to interfere with good judgment and your responsibility as a school representative. Regardless of whether you are an adult, student, athlete, coach, or official, this value is paramount since it suggests that you care about yourself and how others perceive you.