Sportsmanship is defined as “fairness, respect for one’s opponents, and graciousness in winning or losing,” and it is those qualities we wish to promote and instill in players of all ages. But, sportsmanship isn’t just reserved for the players on the court. Coaches, parents, and fans also need to be aware of how they behave during competition. Sportsmanship is a style and an attitude, and it can have a positive influence on everyone around you.
Here are five of the most important keys to great Sportsmanship
1. Introduce yourself before your match.
2. Compliment your opponent’s good shots.
3. When in doubt, call it in.
4. Remember that tennis is a game. You play to have fun, so keep it that way.
5. Treat your opponent how you’d want them to treat you.
There are many more ways of being a great sport and at JTT Sectionals, these players exemplified what it means to play the game the right way.
18U Advanced – Emily Garvin and Tate Frailey (Lancaster Country Club – CPD)
18U Intermediate – Jake Pandina (Monroe Sports Center Cheerios-NJD) and Cami Henneman (Lancaster Country Club-CPD)
14U Intermediate – Ivan LaForm (Tennis Titans-CPD) and Sara Suri – (NJTLT Federers – NJD)
12U – Marc Clemente (Delaware Nightmare) and Sophie Elijovich (In The Zone-EPD)
