Sportsmanship – noun: fair and generous behavior or treatment of others, especially in a sports contest.

At SAM Soccer, we think sportsmanship is the most important part of our game. While we want children to grow their talent within the game we believe that having proper sportsmanship throughout the game no matter what the score is essential to providing a positive environment for our players to grow.

Our Fair Play Please program promotes sportsmanship, teamwork, and positive play all season long. This program rewards one team per division and age group with the Fair Play Please Award. The team that wins this award may not necessarily have the best record, but they are known for consistently demonstrating respect to each other, their competitors, and the referee.

Examples of good sportsmanship are helping someone up if they get knocked down even if they are not on your team. Or cheering positively throughout the entire game. And most importantly being able to come together at the end of the game to congratulate the other team and coaches on a great game.

Parents can help create a positive atmosphere by cheering positively instead of shouting instructions. Take a listen to Soccer Parenting’s ‘How to help your child from the sidelines, without being overbearing to get some tips on proper sideline behavior!

Good luck to everyone this weekend and remember Fair Play Please!