Sportsmanship for Kids
Having good sportsmanship creates an environment of inclusion, teamwork, and respect. Being a good sport even in every situation is the key to success. What does it mean to be a good sport or to show sportsmanship? How have you shown good sportsmanship?
Good sportsmanship shows you how to behave politely during and after a game and impacts how you interact on and off your team. Good sportsmanship is an intricate part of developing character, honor, discipline, kindness, inclusion, resilience, perseverance, respect, and teamwork. Sportsmanship shows an understanding and commitment to fair play, ethical behavior and integrity, and overall goodwill toward an opponent. Next time you find yourself in the face of adversity, think about how you can show good sportsmanship and be an example for others.
Work through this scenario:
You notice a teammate isn’t showing great sportsmanship. Maybe they aren’t being nice to the opposing team or their teammates. What can you do to help?
Needing to have good sportsmanship can occur in any opportunity or experience that you may encounter. It could be during a game, a race, an event, etc. There are many moments where being a good sport will show your character to others around you. It is easy to be a good sport when everything is going your way (winning games, etc.) but harder to be a good sport when faced with adversity. Why is that?
Here are a few helpful tips for showing good sportsmanship:
• Win with dignity
• Lose with grace
• Respect the game
• Follow the rules
• Encourage strong effort
• Have a positive attitude
• Treat others with respect