6145.22

Instruction

Interscholastic/Intramural Athletics

Sportsmanship

The Board of Education believes that sports programs serve educational purposes in the lives of the district's students. One of these purposes is the development of good sportsmanship. The primary focus of the challenge of achieving good sportsmanship is on the student, but others are involved.

The Board believes that administrators must insist that good sportsmanship is the goal. Athletic directors must also realize the value of sportsmanship and set the tone for the implementation of its good practice.

The coaches must accept the responsibility of making each athletic contest a showcase for education. They are expected to be models of self control and dignity for players and spectators.

The players must be taught to handle themselves in a sportsmanlike way; they are also expected to project good sportsmanship in the activities in which they participate. Student fans must be reminded that their conduct reflects on their school and that poor sportsmanship will not be tolerated.

Adult spectators must realize that they also must exhibit good sportsmanship at athletic events. Spectators serve as a model for their own children and for other young people in the community. Spectators also need to demonstrate self control and dignity while participating in athletic events.

Good sportsmanship practices will be practiced by administrators and coaches. Students will be taught good sportsmanship and be held accountable for their actions. Spectators will be reminded and encouraged to be appropriate role models for young people. The Board will support staff and administrators who enforce sportsmanship rules at athletic and other competitive events, including evicting students or adults who violate the District policy.

Policy adopted: September 14, 2004 EAST HADDAM PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Moodus, Connecticut