Sportsmanship:  We hear so much about this word and yet do we really try and promote it?  Do we understand what it means on the field?  

There is a fine line in society today between taunting and celebrating.  What can we do as parents/athletes to help promote good sportsmanship?  

#1:  Share the responsibility of the team.  We have to realize as a player on the field, on the sideline, or a parent in the stands, our actions affect the team.  If we start to lose control, it becomes a virus that spreads throughout the whole team.  

#2:  Play fair, make sure you know the rules and play by them.  Many argue that if the other team is getting away with something, then we might as well do it too.  What are we telling our players about life if we are willing to cut corners in youth activities?

#3:  Follow the coach's directions.  Many times a player may disagree with the coach.  It could be about strategy, playing time, treatment of other team members.  When these things happen, the player should seek the coach out and discuss these things in private.  Work towards an understanding in a civil manner and not drag the rest of the squad into it.  

#4  Respect the other team.  When a team or an opponent is clearly better than you are, recognize that fact and accept it.  Congratulate them on their play, then strive to get your team on the same page.  Rivalries are usually built because teams are good and they respect each other's ability.  If you beat a good opponent, then you should respect them as a good opponent.  If you lose to a good opponent, respect the fact and learn from the defeat.  It is not the time to blame the officials or look for excuses.  

Many of the sportsmanship ideas carry over to other parts of life as well.  Sportsmanship is a life lesson not just confined to the sports arenas.  Please keep sportsmanship in mind all year long.