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Sportsmanship
Good sportsmanship is both the coach's and athlete's commitment to fair play, ethical behavior and integrity. In perception and practice, sportsmanship is defined as those qualities which are characterized by generosity and genuine concern for others. Below are highlighted a few focus points and ideas on how to teach and coach sportsmanship to athletes. Coaches should lead by example.
Tennis is a game that requires cooperation and courtesy from all participants. Make tennis a fun game by praising your opponent's good shots and by not exhibiting the following behaviours as noted in the USTA Friend at Court.
- Making loud noises after points.
- Complaining about shots, like lobs and drops shots.
- Embarrassing a weak opponent by being overly gracious or condescending.
- Losing your temper, using foul language, throwing your racket or slamming a ball in anger.
- Sulking when you are losing.
Competitive Effort
- Put forth maximum effort during each event.
- Practice with the same intensity as you would perform in competition.
- Always finish the event. Never quit.
Fair Play at All Times
- Always comply with the rules.
- Demonstrate sportsmanship and fair play at all times.
- Respect the decision of officials at all times.
Expectations of Coaches
- Always set a good example for participants and fans to follow.
- Instruct participants in proper sportsmanship responsibilities and demand that they make sportsmanship and ethics a top priority.
- Respect the judgment of officials, abide by rules of the event and display no behavior that could incite fans.
- Treat opposing coaches, directors, participants and fans with respect.
- Shake hands with officials and the opposing coach in public.
- Develop and enforce penalties for participants who do not abide by the highest sportsmanship standards.
Expectations of Athletes and Partners in Unified Sports
- Treat teammates with respect.
- Encourage teammates when they make a mistake.
- Treat opponents with respect. Shake hands prior to and after contests.
- Respect the judgment of officials, abide by rules of the contest and display no behavior that could incite fans.
- Cooperate with officials, coaches or directors and fellow participants to conduct a fair contest.
- Do not retaliate (verbally or physically) if other athletes demonstrate poor behavior.
- Accept seriously the responsibility and privilege of representing Special Olympics.
- Define winning as doing your personal best.
- Live up to the high standard of sportsmanship established by your coach.
Remember
- Sportsmanship is an attitude that is shown by how you and your athletes act on and off the field of play.
- Be positive about competing.
- Respect your opponents and yourself.
- Always stay under control, even when you are feeling mad or angry.
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