Printable Version (PDF) 1. I should remember that along with everyone else, I play the game mostly because it's FUN. 2. Everyone wants to win. It adds to the fun. I should always try to help our team be successful but it's okay to lose. The FUN I have during the game is far more important than the score at the end. Losing teaches many valuable lessons just as winning does. All of us are sometimes not successful in other parts of our lives and losing in sports helps prepare us for that. I should come back and try my best the next time. 3. Winning most of my games often is more about playing weaker competition than it is about anything else. Skills improve most and carry over to future games when we play against teams of equal ability, not those who are much stronger or weaker. 4. It's okay if I am not a good player. Trying my best is all that can be expected of me. 5. I should not sound angry or frustrated if I give advice to my teammates. They will consider my suggestions seriously if I use a pleasant tone of voice. I can also help a teammate who is angry calm down to avoid being ejected from the game. Staying cool when an opposing player says or does something inappropriate prevents me from embarrassing myself and the team. 6. I must show RESPECT to my opponents, coaches, and spectators. I should also recognize that referees and umpires do the best they can, just as I am doing. They make mistakes but so do I. I should not criticize their decisions. They don't change their calls but they do quit because of the abuse they take. Yet many people wonder about the lack of referees. I must show the same RESPECT to them that I want for myself. My behavior influences younger kids. 7. By joining the team, I have made a commitment to attend practice and games and display good sportsmanship. I cannot expect as much playing time if I do not meet those commitments. As an example of good sportsmanship, ask opponents if they are hurt when they are down for more than a few seconds. Also, help an opponent get up even when there is no injury. 8. I can help my family by reminding them not to be angry and critical toward players, referees or coaches and to show RESPECT and good sportsmanship at all times.