|
SPORTSMANSHIP
Good sportsmanship is one of the key goals emphasized within our club. As a club, I feel that on so many levels we have been a great example to other clubs on the meaning of good sportsmanship. However, given recent observations, I feel it is necessary to address this topic more formally.
The idea of sportsmanship is basically “playing the game of soccer fairly and cleanly.” Players who play with the spirit of the game in mind are given a lot more respect as a teammate and leader. On the other hand, a player who is constantly bringing the game down by cheating, fighting, showing disrespect to referee or coach, playing with intent to hurt an opponent or criticizing teammates on how they play is engaging in poor sportsmanship. Poor sportsmanship, particularly when a player criticizes his own teammate on the field, ruins the spirit of the game, single-handedly demoralizes a team and destroys team chemistry. It is this last behavior that I would like to bring to light.
What are examples of good sportsmanship? Consider a player who helps his opponent off the ground. Or perhaps, rather than criticizing his own goalkeeper, the player encourages his teammate by saying “its okay they scored, we will get the next one.” One common act of fair play occurs when a team intentionally kicks the ball out of bounds to allow an injured opponent to receive treatment. The opponent on the ensuing throw-in then throws the ball back to the team that kicked it out, as if to say “thanks” for letting their player get help.
To develop better sportsmanship on this team, I want to start re-emphasizing the key points we always tried to teach:
- We will play the game fairly and cleanly
- We will play the game without swearing, cheating or fighting
- We will play the game without the intent of hurting our opponent
- We will respect the referee and his decisions on the field
- We will win respectfully
- We will lose gracefully
- We will respect our own teammates through encouragement, praise and positive feedback.
Harsh criticism or bullying of our own teammates in any way shape or form will NOT be tolerated.
|
