SET THE EXAMPLE!

 Sportsmanship is a priority in LCPS  VHSL Sportsmanship Awards: ◦ Wells Fargo award  Sportsmanship Award ◦ Stay in the game award  SET THE EXAMPLE!

Sportsmanship Statement Good sportsmanship is viewed by Stone Bridge High School as a 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. The ideals of sportsmanship apply equally to all sports. Individuals, regardless of their role in activities, are expected to be aware of their influence on the behavior of others and model good sportsmanship. Expectations of Parents and Spectators Realize that a ticket is a privilege to observe a contest and SUPPORT high school activities, not a license to verbally assault others or be generally obnoxious. Respect decisions made by contest officials. Be an exemplary role model by positively supporting teams in every manner possible, including content of cheers and signs. Respect fans, coaches, and participants. BE A FAN…NOT A FANATIC. Acceptable Behavior Applause during introduction of players, coaches, and officials. Players shaking hands with opponents who foul out while both sets of fans recognize player’s performance with applause. Cheerleaders lead fans in positive school chants. Handshakes between participants and coaches at the end of a contest. Treat competition as a game, not war. Applause at the end of contest for performances of all participants. Encourage only sportsmanlike conduct. Unacceptable Behavior Yelling or waving arms during free throw attempts. Disrespectful yells, chants, or songs. BOOING! Criticizing officials in any way. Refusing to shake hands. Blaming loss of game on officials, coaches, or participants. Laughing or name-calling. Use of profanity or displays of anger that draw attention away from the game.

 Show respect for your opponents ◦ They are your guests  Show respect for the officials ◦ They are professionals who do their job to the best of their ability  Know, understand, and appreciate the rules of the contest ◦ Conform to the spirit as well as the letter of the rules  Maintain self control at all times ◦ The desire to win must not overcome rational behavior  Recognize and appreciate an opponent’s good performance ◦ Applauding a quality performance by an opponent is good sportsmanship and good will  Encourage others to be good sports  If you see someone displaying unsportsmanlike behavior, spend a few moments to remind that person of the role of educational athletics and how sportsmanship is a part of the process!