Athletic competition can be a highly enjoyable and rewarding activity, offering participants the chance to be physically active, to compete against others and to strive towards victory. Good sportsmanship, as active tennis and soccer player Albert Cyprys understands, is essential to fair and friendly competition, as well as to the enjoyment of everyone involved.

Without good sportsmanship, says Albert Cyprys, negativity and conflict can often take over an athletic contest. It’s important to adhere to the principles of sportsmanship, ensuring everyone has a fair and equal chance to play and enjoy the game they love.
Cyprys provides what he believes to be the major elements of good sportsmanship below.
Respect for the Opponent

An important aspect of good sportsmanship, says Albert Cyprys, is the demonstration of respect for your opponent, something which needs to be upheld throughout the entire course of the contest. Every member of the opposing squad should be treated fairly and in a positive manner.

Respect for the Officials

Regardless of the sport, the people in charge of game moderation should always be treated with the same level of respect you expect for yourself. This, says Albert Cyprys, includes abiding by the refs decisions and honoring their authority as it pertains to game moderation. Though officials may occasionally make questionable calls, they are still charged with the basic game maintenance, and should be accorded the respect they deserve.

Self Control

Athletic competition tends to bring out the true character of both players and coaches. Maintaining your self-control throughout the course of a game, says Albert Cyprys, exhibits strong character and demonstrates your willingness to accept results, win or lose, with honor and dignity. Do your best to maintain your self-control by preventing your emotions from taking over in critical situations.

Acknowledge Skill and Performance

Demonstrate your appreciation of the opponent’s ability and/or performance during the course of a game. It’s important, says Albert Cyprys, to consistently demonstrate that you have perspective on what is going on, and that you are not only willing but also devoted to one of the very core principles of good sportsmanship. Understand that your opponent is committing the same level of effort to the game as you are.
About: Albert Cyprys is a Fairfield University student and an intramural soccer champion.