"Sportsmanship"

As a kid growing up we were never allowed to play competitive sports like signing up for any sports team; so we played Softball at home. We always had two teams which consisted of brothers, sisters, cousins, and neighbor kids. We always played Softball with a hard-core softball, but we played by Baseball rules. We weren't allowed to use a baseball, because it was considered too hard. My Grandfather was the coach and umpire. He believed in being fair and square to everyone, and having good sportsmanship.

My Grandfather always laid down the ground rules to us before we started a game, and then he would always pray for God to keep His hand upon everyone as we played, and for everyone to enjoy themselves, keep a good attitude whether you won or lost. When his prayer was over, we all got into our places, and waited for his voice to ring out "PLAY BAll!"

Good Sportsmanship Rules:
1) The "Golden Rule"--Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.
2) Have an understanding and appreciation of the rules.
3) Enjoy yourself and encourage enjoyment for others.
4) Take responsibility for you actions.
5) Recognize and appreciate good performances, especially by the opponent.
6) Exhibit respect for the officials.
7) Expect proper behavior from your teammates.

It seems in our sports, today, the concept of good sportsmanship has been lost. Sportsmanship in sports is a direct reflection of our own ethics in real life. Sportsmanship like ethics concerns both the character and the actions of an athlete. The image you project as an athlete is a product of your character.
"Character"-- is an attribute or quality that defines a person. Good sportsmanship is not just what you do on the field, but the way you conduct your life both on and off the field. Unsportsmanlike behavior on the field is probably an indication of your off the field conduct. Unsportsmanlike behavior--acts that are unfair, dishonest, disrepectful or against the rules; are unsportsmanlike because they are unethical. If you are unethical in sports, you are probably unethical in other areas of your life--such as business dealings, your treatment of others, your family, and your walk with God. Displaying good sportsmanship isn't always easy,
it can be tough to congratulate the opposing team. There is an old saying, "Actions speak louder then words!"

Encourage all surrounding people to display good sportsmanship behavior. "Win with class--lose with dignity." Every time we go out, we are being watched. We may not realize it but someone, possibly a young impressionable person, is observing you and how you act. Your behavior may have a signiciant impact--positive or negative. Remember your life is the only Bible others may read. Keep good sportsmanship.

"Fear not, nor be dismayed, be strong and of good courage:" Josh. 10:25

"For when the One Great Scorer comes to mark against your name, He writes not that you won or lost--but how you played the game." (Grantland Rice)