How to Encourage Good Sportsmanship in Kids

It’s easy to get caught up in a soccer or other youth sports game when the focus is on winning. Sometimes unwittingly, parents and coaches emphasize that winning is the goal and that it’s all that matters. Of course, this isn’t true. The old adage is true: as long as you’re having fun…

There’s a lot more to be gained from the sports experience than having the winning record. Youth sports are a chance for us to instill good values in our children and teens that they can draw from the rest of their lives.

Good sportsmanship is a top life lesson that all kids can learn from sports. It’s up to us as parents to model good sportsmanship so they can have a fulfilling, fun experience.

In a nutshell, good sportsmanship is all about winning without gloating, respecting your opponents, and the ability to lose gracefully. 

Tips to Encourage Good Sportsmanship

• Don’t argue. Keep the focus on the game rather than getting into spats with the other team, your own teammates, the coaches or the refs.
• Give everyone a chance to play. Youth sports provide the perfect platform for giving even the least skilled kids a chance to play. 
• Play fair. Good sportsmanship means you want to win because you played the best game you could, not for the accolades, bragging rights or trophies that come with it. Wining by following the rules and being a good friend are both equally as important. Teach your kids that winning by cheating is not acceptable.
• Follow directions. Emphasize how important it is to listen to and obey coaches and referees. They need to follow their directions on the field so they can improve their skills and stay safe.
• Respect the other team. Whether you win or lose, you always need to show respect for your opponents. If you lose, accept defeat while acknowledging the other team’s abilities, then move on. If you win, don’t brag. Be a gracious winner by saving the celebration for later.
• Encourage teammates. Team sports only work when each person contributes to and supports the team. Praise teammates for a job well done and encourage them to do better if a mistake is made. Don’t criticize. 
• Respect referees. These officials are faced with difficult decisions throughout every game. They are doing their best, so don’t heckle them or call them names. Accept their calls, even when you don’t agree with them. Put your focus back on the game.
• End the game with a handshake. Good sportsmen end all games on a positive note, no matter the outcome. Do not taunt, threaten, criticize or stomp off the field. 

Contact N Zone Sports Music City

Here at NZone, we work hard to instill good sportsmanship in all our players. Find out more about what we do when you call us at 615-246-7843 or email us at musiccity@nzonesports.com.