Hopkins got a lot of attention during last week’s state basketball tournament, first for using slow-down tactics in overtime and then for questionable sportsmanship afterward. Several players removed their second-place medals immediately after receiving them following a loss in the Class AAAA title game.
While sportsmanship needs to be taught and promoted, I often wince at the forced sportsmanship before or after playoff games as the players are required to go through a pre-determined ceremony. Sometimes it’s captains reading a script before a game. Afterwards, it’s one player from the other team coming forward to shake hands as medals are handed out. Some pre-game announcements go on and on and on.
It’s too bad that in our society so many people have to be reminded to do what’s right and act appropriately. That includes fans, sometimes even more so than the participants.
Once in awhile, though, we are treated to genuine acts of true sportsmanship.
I recall a high school football playoff game many years ago between two rival teams from neighboring towns. It was a hard-fought, competitive contest and in the end, the upset did not occur as the favorite pulled away at the end.
In those days, awards were simply a trophy to each team, no individual medals.
But I still clearly remember that as the championship trophy was awarded, the players on the other team – losers on the scoreboard only – stood and applauded.
It was a spontaneous, honest display of respect and sportsmanship at the highest level – not expected, required, or planned in advance.
When players are able to step up and show that kind of character, we are all better for it.
No comments:
Post a Comment