Building Character Through Sportsmanship

Right before school started I received a letter from the Iowa High School Athletic Association applauding the fact that we didn't have any ejections during the 2022-2023 school year. Of course we didn't. We receive a similar letter every year and my expectation is that we continue to receive the same letter every year into perpetuity. It really shouldn't be that hard, but the statistics suggest otherwise. Only 46% of schools in Iowa received the letter. Think about that for a second: More than half of Iowa schools had a coach or player ejected last year. That, well that is a disgrace. It's really no wonder why we also received notice that one of our football games was moved from a Friday night to a Thursday night. The reason: referee shortage. It doesn't take too much of a leap to understand why there is a shortage of high school officials. 

Sportsmanship is more than just a set of rules or a code of conduct; it is a reflection of one's character. It encompasses fair play, respect for opponents, and graciousness in victory and defeat. Indeed the primary purpose of sports is competition and winning, but the value of sportsmanship goes well beyond the scoreboard. We may lose the game, but we must never lose our cool. For these reasons, we place great emphasis on the importance of conduct with our coaches and the fact that we are representing our school and community whenever we put those jerseys on. But it is more than the fact that our students are 'wearing the jersey and representing the community'. It is the bedrock of integrity and honesty. Our student athletes who exhibit sportsmanship are more likely to maintain high ethical standards both on and off the field. We instill in them an understanding of the importance of playing by the rules, and understanding the fact that sometimes the call may not go our way. To accept the outcome with grace.  By adhering to these principles, we hope our student athletes develop a strong sense of integrity that extends into adulthood and their everyday lives.

At the same time though, sportsmanship extends beyond the athletes competing on the field of play. Indeed it includes the fans that attend our events. We expect passion and excitement. We encourage our fans to cheer, and to cheer loudly. Yet, sometimes my administrators take grief because:

"You don't let the students cheer". 

That would be a mischaracterization. We do let the students cheer. We just don't let the students jeer. I know, believe me, I know. The opposing fans do it. Yes, you may be right. What does that say about them? Now, when we don't reciprocate, what does that say about you? We want-and encourage all our fans, and particularly our student section to cheer on their Pirates. To do so loudly and boldly. But, we won't tolerate tearing down our opponents or getting into arguments with officials when they get a call wrong. And we all know there are going to be bad calls. That is part of the game and we must always remember the humanness of those we ask to officiate our contests. Believe me, they want to get it right all every single time too!

A key component of sportsmanship is respect. Respect for our opponents, our teammates, coaches, officials, and of course school and community. Fans and athletes who demonstrate respect understand that their competition; their opponent is an essential part of the experience. By acknowledging and respecting the efforts and abilities of our opponents, it fosters healthy competition, mutual growth and creates lifelong skills that will extend well beyond their 'playing years'. 

We may not win every game. In fact, that is of one thing I am certain. But we can always exhibit good sportsmanship. I don't mean to sound cliché, but you have all heard me say this before. 'It's not whether you win or lose, but how you play the game.' I am often most proud when I hear about the character of our people. We recently lost the junior varsity football game at Wapsie Valley. I wasn't at the game but coach received this text message from the whit hat following the game.

Now, the referee did not need to send that message. But I am sure glad he did. In my view, this message encapsulates the whole point of why our activity program exists. In some ways, I think teaching the 'Xs' and the 'Os' are a means to an end. This, this is what we are trying to teach our kids. Sure, we lost the game. But we really won in so many other ways.

Indeed, sportsmanship is a powerful force for character development, teaching athletes and fans valuable life skills like integrity, respect, resilience, and honor. Fostering good sportsmanship requires a collective effort from everyone: athletes, fans, coaches, parents, and administrators. By prioritizing character development alongside athletic skills, and celebrating positive behavior, we can create a sporting environment that is not only competitive but also respectful and enjoyable for all participants. In doing so, we not only build character but also ensure the longevity and success of sports at all levels.

Go Pirates!