Good sportsmanship. While we can all agree it is needed, it can be hard to define. Good sportsmanship is most often explained in three categories: play fair, respect the judges, and respect your competitors. But is that all? Is that enough? It is true that one should follow these three simple rules, but there is so much more athletes and spectators can do to show their pride and respect for those who share their passion.
10919410_10205597666331406_1098244170546063122_oAt the Silver Championship in Concord, I interviewed some coaches and athletes on good sportsmanship. What does it mean to them? What do they see as good sportsmanship at a competition? Is it winning, awards, or a flawless routine? No. What they answered is inspiring. It is more than simply how they play the game. In fact, none of them mentioned anything about the actual competition at all.
“Good sportsmanship can be as simple as saying good luck to those you see walking into the competition.” Says Cheer Athletics Reigncat Abbi Brundrett. “It shows that you care how everyone does, and not just focus on yourself.” She says good sportsmanship goes beyond thinking only of the team, but to every team on the floor. “Hearing something positive can calm someone’s nerves. Telling them ‘Good Job’, or ‘Congratulations’ is important.” Abbi says the reward to this is not a one way street. “It builds confidence when you hear it. When I say it, most often people will reply in kind, and it helps me feel happy and more confident as well. I always try to tell people good luck.”
Mackenzie Long and Alayah Nguyen of ReignCats added, “It’s not just about cheering for your team. It’s about cheering for all the teams, not just your own. You want to show that you love them all because they love cheering as much as you do.” To these Cheer Athletic “kittens” good sportsmanship, in their opinion goes beyond respect, but appreciation for all those involved. Staff, coaches, parents, and competitors need to know you are thankful for helping them be able to do what you love.
White Lightning coach Jessica Grace Booker puts it all in perspective. “Walking in with a positive attitude and showing that attitude feeds on itself. It creates an atmosphere that everyone enjoys.” To her team, Leo and Lady Lightning, it is all about creating a place that people feel encouraged and appreciated. The athletes of Leo and Lady Lightning agree that cheering for more than yourself shows great sportsmanship. They love cheering for all their old teammates, even if they are now at other gyms. Standing up for the first place team and giving them a standing ovation for their hard work is also important. “It shows you know how hard they worked to get there, and you respect that hard work.” Even in the warm up area these athletes go the extra mile to show good sportsmanship. White Lightning team can often be found clapping along with the beat as they support other teams practicing dance. This show of support helps them get pumped for the day, while showing others they love having them there.
Good sportsmanship is more than good manners. It is more than respect and following the rules. It is about having a positive attitude, showing others support, and admiration. It is important to note that no athlete, spectator, coach or parent mentioned anything about winning the awards. I suppose it is because it doesn’t matter if you win or lose, but how much you enjoyed the game.

By: Claire Brundrett
Guest Blogger

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Good sportsmanship. While we can all agree it is needed, it can be hard to define. Good sportsmanship is most often explained in three categories: play fair, respect the judges, and respect your competitors. But is that all? Is that enough? It is true that one should follow these three...