Sportsmanship
By Paul Szymanski, Activities Director
Good sportsmanship is the attitude and behavior that exemplifies positive support for the Hutchinson interscholastic athletics programs, as well as for the individual student-athletes who participate. People involved in all facets of interscholastic athletics programs are expected to show respect for others and display good sportsmanship. Positive athletics experiences do not occur by chance. Rather they’re a result of the educational structure, the right perspective, the right leadership and the true understanding of sportsmanship. Good sportsmanship is the essence of what educational athletics are about. Coaches, student-athletes, officials and parents all play a role in promoting good sportsmanship. The following are tips for parents on creating a healthy athletics environment:
Be Supportive of Coaches:
In front of your child be supportive and positive of the coach’s decision. If you have problems with what the coach is doing, it is best to talk directly with the coach.
Teach Respect for Authority:
There will be times when you disagree with a coach or official but always remember they are trying their best and are trying to be fair. Show good sportsmanship by being positive.
Let the Coach do the Coaching but you can do some of the Teaching:
When your child is on the field, court or ice, let the coach do the coaching. You can teach sportsmanship and how to deal with success and failure. Develop their character and teach life skills that athletics bring to the forefront.
Help your Children Learn through Failure:
The way your child handles failure can help them to face the certain failures life will throw them in the future. The worst time for you as a parent to give advice is immediately after a disappointment. Let your child cope in their own way.
Focus on your Child as an Individual:
Focus on what your child does well and where they need to improve. Encouragement is essential!
Listen to your Child, but Stay Rational:
Always support and listen to your child, but remember to stay rational until you have investigated the situation.
Be Mindful of your Role as a Role Model:
Take a good honest look at your actions and reactions in the athletics arena. These actions are a big cue to your child and to the others around you.
Show Unconditional Love:
The most important thing…show your child you love them, win or lose.
The Hutchinson Activities Department really appreciates the support and involvement of coaches, student-athletes, officials, parents and fans. Please help us in making sportsmanship a priority for our department, school district and community.
