NFHS Learning Center – Sportsmanship Course

Prep runner carries foe to finish line – Meghan Vogel

RESPONSIBLITIES OF SPECTATORS

• Realize that admission is a privilege to observe a contest and to support West Liberty-Salem activities, not a license to verbally assault others or be generally obnoxious. Do not taunt, jeer, or attempt to distract the members of the opposing team.

• Learn the rules of the game so that you may understand and appreciate why certain situations take place.

• Remember that West Liberty-Salem Athletics is a learning experience for students and that mistakes will be made. Praise student-athletes in their attempt to improve themselves.

• Be an exemplary role model by positively supporting the team in every manner possible. Remember that you are at the contest to support, cheer for your team and enjoy the skill and competition.

• Show respect for the opposing players, coaches, spectators, and support groups. Recognize an outstanding play by either team.

• Avoid the use of profanity and derogatory or disrespectful yells, chants, songs or gestures. Refrain from offensive or unruly behavior, which reflects poorly on the school you are supporting.

• Respect the integrity and judgment of game officials. Accept their decisions without public protest. Do not confront a game official at halftime or after the game.

RELATIONSHIP WITH OFFICIALS

All officials are scheduled by an assignor of the particular sport, not by individual teams. Officials agree to and follow a code of ethics. It is important to understand that they are a very necessary part of a game. A contest cannot occur without them.

While you may not agree with all of their decisions, please do not harass or taunt them. They are trained, experienced, unbiased, and are physically closer to the play than spectators – they are more prepared to make the call than any spectator. However, they are not perfect – none of us are. It is up to each of us to control our emotions and not act based on what we want to happen, but accept the decision put forth by the official.

 Officials are in charge of the contest and have complete authority to have unruly spectators removed. In many sports, a team will see the same official several times during a season. Coaches, athletic administrators and schools often work hard to establish a rapport and good working relationship that can easily be damaged by disrespectful spectators.