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One of the biggest hurdles in establishing a sportsmanship program is how to get started. There often is resistance to these efforts because people say there haven't been any problems so why bother setting up a plan. Just ask officials of those clubs which have had incidents and you will hear them wish they had heeded suggestions to be proactive.
But just as important as trying to avoid poor behavior are the life lessons for children which should be a major part of the youth sports experience.
Here are steps to take as you develop your program:
1) It is usually best for more than one member of your group to initiate a discussion about developing a sportsmanship program. This may reduce the chance that the idea will be summarily rejected. Emailing other members of your board about the idea in advance of a meeting is suggested.
2) List some of the potential benefits, including those which always apply but would be emphasized more in a formal program:
a) Life lessons, including respect, discipline, working hard, winning and losing graciously, and learning that it's okay to make mistakes.
b) A positive fun atmosphere at games, free of pressure on kids and criticism of game officials and coaches who are doing the best they can. Adults who don't set a good example lead players to believe negative behavior is acceptable.
c) Substantial playing time for each player. Surveys show kids would rather get into the game for losing teams than sit on the bench for winning ones. In rec programs, there should be equal playing time. In travel, as close to equal as possible. Coaches should remember that they or other coaches selected their players, including the ones who now seem weaker. The kids should not suffer after the coaches selected them.
d) A structure for feedback. Every program should let players, coaches, and parents know how to communicate with administrators to express concerns or appreciation for anyone involved.
3) Form a committee to suggest specific elements of a program. There should be a specified date for the committee to report, not an open-ended time frame. Check our page, A Sportsmanship Program, for ideas. Item #4 is especially relevant.
4) Check via search engines for sites providing resources, such as videos, booklets, and seminars. Please include Kindness Counts (kindness-counts.org)
5) Discuss the recommendations and send a copy to each board member.
6) Members offer any suggestions they might have.
7) Ask coaches for input.
8) Schedule a final vote.
9) Vote on the program.
A reminder that our page, A Sportsmanship Program, has information you should find helpful in setting up your program.
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