Many of us watched the men’s Wimbledon final, a masterful tennis clinic hosted by Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic. Two athletes at the top of their game battled it out in five sets to determine who was the best on this day. As someone who doesn’t watch tennis frequently, I became aware, through the commentators’ conversations, of Federer’s popularity over Djokovic; it seems Djokovic desires the same love from tennis fans that Federer garners. While I understand the tendency to prefer one athlete over another (the fans cheering harder at times for one), the fans at Wimbledon quieted for serves and were quieted if they yelled beyond an acceptable time. Respect for the players and fans was expected because there’s no place in sports for bad sportsmanship.
We’ve all witnessed bad sportsmanship, from parents and fans yelling at kids (sometimes even their own) and officials during youth sports to fans throwing debris onto sporting areas during college and professional sports. It’s nothing short of the shameful side of some of the most rewarding and character-building opportunities our children and we can experience. At a time when our kids and young adults learn how to work together, survive under pressure, control their emotions, and look at the big picture, they witness adults setting an opposite standard. I’ve witnessed parents drinking alcohol at a high school game, berating officials and players alike. Recently, parents were on the news fighting on the field at a youth ballgame–seriously? In what situation–other than an attack–would that be warranted?
Yet, there is always the majority, like most fans at Wimbledon, the ones who clap hard for the player or team they’re rooting for, keeping the sideline coaching and officiating–and derogatory comments–to themselves. These individuals are the ones who must listen to inappropriate remarks, sometimes about their own children. The ones who aren’t caught up in the idea that winning, while attractive, does not involve a lack of decorum, always trying to remember not only who is watching, but making the most of the experience. They are the ones who must stand up to those who think sporting events are occasions for poor behavior.
Promoting good sportsmanship can be difficult; everyone has his or her own idea of what is appropriate. Remembering the beauty of sports brings it all into focus, the reason for maintaining a sense of good-natured enjoyment. Appreciate the skills, drive, dedication, and joy of the athletes, as well as our fortuitous opportunity to watch. Enjoy the game! (Like these ladies😁)
Quote of the Day
“Rudeness is the weak person’s imitation of strength.” Eric Hoffer
Designs on Life 