Young Athlete's Guide to Sportsmanship

Sportsmanship is all about how you play the game, both on and off the field. For high school athletes, it's especially important to understand that sports aren't just about winning: They're also about showing respect, being fair, and having a good attitude. Approaching every game or practice session with a sense of fair play and humility can help everyone have a better time and feel better about the effort they put in.

What Is Sportsmanship?

Sportsmanship encompasses fair play, respect, and a positive attitude, going beyond just following the rules of the game. It involves treating opponents with dignity, acknowledging officials' decisions without argument, and competing honestly without resorting to unethical tactics. Good sportsmanship means maintaining self-control and composure, even in challenging situations, and being gracious in both victory and defeat. It also includes supporting and encouraging teammates, fostering a positive team environment, and playing for the love of the game itself, not just for the win. Ultimately, sportsmanship creates a positive and inclusive atmosphere, allowing everyone to enjoy the game.

Why Is Sportsmanship Important?

Sportsmanship matters for several reasons, the most obvious of which is that playing in a positive environment, where everyone works together and respects each other, is more fun. Being a good sport also means that everyone gets an equal chance to play and win and that the game will be played fairly, without cheating. Good sportsmanship on the field or court also carries over into the rest of your life, helping you to build character traits like humility and resilience that you'll use throughout your life. And being a good sport sets an example for younger students, helping to pass along these positive habits.

How Can You Be a Good Sport?

Being a good sport goes beyond just playing by the rules. Here's how you can show good sportsmanship:

• Respect Everyone: Treat your opponents and officials with respect, even if the game doesn't go your way. A simple handshake or a kind word can go a long way.
• Play Fair: Follow the rules, and don't try to gain an unfair advantage. Cheating or trying to hurt someone isn't cool and goes against the spirit of the game.
• Win and Lose With Grace: If you win, be humble and congratulate your opponents on their effort. If you lose, take it as a chance to learn and grow, rather than getting angry or blaming other players or your equipment for the loss.
• Support Your Teammates: Encourage your teammates, whether they're playing well or having a rough game.
• Stay Positive: A positive mindset can help you overcome challenges and improve your performance.

How Parents Can Encourage Fair Play

Parents should also do their part to promote good sportsmanship in a few different ways:

• Teach Respect: Parents need to remind their kids that respecting opponents, teammates, and the game itself is just as important as winning.
• Promote Positive Communication: Open and respectful communication with coaches and other parents can set the right tone for the team. Avoid negative comments, and focus on positive reinforcement.
• Focus on Effort, Not Just Winning: It's great when parents recognize their children's effort and improvement, not just the final score.
• Support the Coach: Even if they disagree with the coach's decisions, parents should support them in front of the players. This teaches respect for authority and helps keep the team environment positive.

Additional Resources

• How to Be a Good Sport
• Five Qualities of a Good Sport
• Basics of Sportsmanship for Kids
• The Importance of Sportsmanship
• Ten Ways to Be a Good Sport
• Sportsmanship for Parents
• Sports Equipment
• Win Well, Lose Better
• Ten Commandments of Sportsmanship
• What Does Sportsmanship Really Mean?
• Ten Memorable Moments of Olympic Sportsmanship

Learn about the author: Nic Breedlove