Being a respected athlete is more than just having talent.Being a good sport and treating teammates, coaches, opponents, and game officials with respect is what it's all about.It can be hard to show good sportsmanship, but if you just remember to put your team first, you'll be fine.
Step 1: Trash talk is not appropriate.
When your competitive juices start flowing, it may be tempting to make fun of the other team names.It is not possible to win a game by running your mouth.Don't worry about landing a good insult, focus on beating your opponent on the field or court.
Step 2: Don't let your temper get the better of you.
It can be easy to lose your cool in the heat of a game if you get elbowed or the other team keeps scoring on you.Don't let your anger affect your behavior.Sports are supposed to be fun, so don't lose sight of the bigger picture just because things are going your way.Revenge against another player is never a good idea.Penalizing your own team is what you will end up doing.Don't have violent confrontations with other players.Talk to the officials or a coach if you are worried that a situation is going to get out of hand.
Step 3: You should respect the other team's effort.
It is important to recognize that they have put in a lot of work to prepare for the game, just like your team has.Good sportsmanship depends on having respect for the other team.You may be able to learn something from your opponent.If they are playing better than you, you may be able to get some pointers for the next game.
Step 4: Be gracious in defeat.
It is easy to get carried away when you win a big game.If you are a good sport, you don't try to make your opponent feel bad about their performance.You shouldn't downplay the other team's victory if you lose.If you lose, get in the habit of thanking the other team.It shows that you care about the game and the effort that goes into it.
Step 5: Become a team player.
You can't win a game without your teammates, even if you're the best athlete on the field.Everyone should do their part to make the team successful.The team is more important than your own performance.You can show you are a team player by helping to clean up after practice or arriving on time.You shouldn't accept unsportsmanlike conduct from your teammates because the behavior of every team member reflects on the team.They should politely remind them that their behavior affects the entire team.
Step 6: Help your teammates.
Being a good sport means that you are just as happy with your own success.When your teammates are performing well, offer encouragement to teammates who may have made a mistake or are in a slump.You should be willing to share your knowledge with your teammates.If there is someone who is struggling with a particular part of the game that you excel at, offer some tips and suggestions to help him or her improve.When teammates point out ways in which you can improve your skills, you should be willing to listen.You should take advantage of your teammates expertise to improve your skills, because not everyone is good at the same aspects of a game.
Step 7: Speak to your coach.
He or she is looking out for the good of the team, and sometimes that means your role may be reduced or changed.You should trust the coach's judgement if you show good sportsmanship.If you disagree with the coach's decision, have a discussion with him or her.Don't start an argument.It is normal to get upset if the coach decides someone else should start.If you channel your frustration into working hard at practices, you will be ready for the next game.
Step 8: Get familiar with the sport.
You cannot be a good sport if you don't understand the game that you're playing.You should learn what it takes to be successful in that particular sport, as well as what you can and can't do.The rules and guidelines for most sports can be found by doing a basic online search.If you are new to sport, you may want to purchase a handbook that provides all the rules and regulations, as well as tips on how to successfully play the game.Don't be afraid to ask questions.People with experience with the game can help you understand it better.It is important to respect the sport and follow the rules.You shouldn't show off when you're successful because that puts you ahead of the game.
Step 9: You can play fair.
It is important to always follow the rules of the sport once you understand them.You shouldn't look for ways to cheat or bend the rules to get a competitive edge.If you have to play dirty to win, it doesn't mean as much.
Step 10: The officials must be respected.
It can be difficult to not take it personally when a referee, umpire, linesman, and other official makes a call that goes against you.It is their job to enforce the rules so it is important to remind yourself that they are there to ensure that the game is played properly.Sometimes an official will make an error and their call may be wrong.Everyone makes mistakes, so don't argue over missed or incorrect calls.Bring it to your coaches' attention if you are concerned with the calls that an official is making.They will know the best way to address the situation.