The home team crowd boos as the opposing team enters the field. The number of fans undoubtedly exceeds that of their opponent, so the cheers of the away team’s fan base are almost silenced. Pre-game announcements on the jumbo-tron remind fans, as well as players, to be respectful of each other, your teammates, and most of all, your opponent.
Colleges and universities tend to pride themselves on traditional values, setting a precedent and earning the respect of the broader global community through example. The NCAA maintains the same values. So, I have to wonder, why is it that no matter which college stadium you go to watch a college football game, the opposing team isn’t greeted with the respect that a visitor to your home turf deserves? Why is it so hard to whistle or clap your opponent (your guest) when he enters your field (your house) to participate in a sport that thousands are known to pay good money to watch and enjoy? It is, after all, a sporting event that you share with each other.
Websters defines sportsmanship (in part) as the aspiration that an activity be enjoyed with proper regard for fairness, ethics, respect, and a sense of camaraderie with competitors. I believe that sportsmanship is a behavior that is learned through life experiences; with age comes wisdom. You’ve heard the old saying, he walks a mile in my shoes. Perhaps if fans were reminded of the feeling of being on both sides of a situation and that camaraderie is the foundation of good sportsmanship, it wouldn’t speak volumes for the stature of that college or university and the students they are proudly affiliated with?
Some things to remember about being a good sport:
- treat your opponent with respect; be humble, accept them
- win without gloating; accepting a compliment while giving one in return
- lose with dignity; congratulate your opponent, avoid making excuses
- demonstrate by example; do to others what you would like them to do to you
The next time you attend a college football game (or any other sporting event) be aware of your surroundings. He stands out as a gracious host who receives his guests with the respect they deserve for having traveled the distance to be there. You may find the same reciprocal treatment when you become their guest. Sounds like a win-win situation for everyone.
As Addison Walker quotes: “It’s not true that the good guys finish last. The good guys are winners before the game even starts.”
