SPORTSMANSHIP

MARK R. BATAC

Sportsmanship is the ability to play the game of life in line with the spirit ingrained on the playing grounds, in addition to participating in sports and following the regulations as set forth. A real sportsman follows all the life norms that he was taught to follow while playing games. A person does not deserve to be considered a true sportsman if they have attained talent or expertise in games but have not learnt to apply the fundamentals of sports to life in general. Conversely, a man who demonstrates a strong spirit in other areas of life but has not achieved game brilliance is nevertheless a sportsman. Because their character is shaped by the training, they receive off the field, gamers typically grow into great sportsmen.

What distinguishes an athlete are therefore primarily fair play, discipline, understanding the need of teamwork, and happiness even in the face of loss. As may be seen, sportsmanship is a commendable quality. It promotes the wellbeing and contentment of people.

First fair play is the premise of sportsmanship. When a player commits a foul during a game, his team suffers the consequences. In the same way, one should always treat people fairly in the greater scheme of things in life.

A sportsman should exemplify fairness, honesty, integrity, openness of heart, and frankness in their daily lives. It is improper to use deceit, bluff, or swindle people. Instead, one should use diplomacy or humility. A sportsman never hits below the bet or unfairly takes advantage of his opponent's weakness.

Secondly, being a sportsman means following orders from the top. During a game, the players are required to follow their captain's instructions and give up any ground they may have with him. They ought to have complete faith in their captains. A sportsman submits to his superior in life as well, even if he disagrees with him. Being disciplined is a crucial component of good sportsmanship.

Another crucial component of sportsmanship is team spirit. In games of chance, the different participants need to work together to win a match. Success is impossible without mutual cooperation. In a same vein, to be a true sportsman in any field, one must help and be helped by friends. Being a good sportsman means cooperating with everyone.

Strength does definitely lay in teamwork. Anywhere that a shared need unites a group of individuals, they must demonstrate their sportsmanship by cooperating amicably without conflict or jealously. Ultimately, even in the face of a loss, sportsmanship demands happiness.

-oOoTHE AUTHOR IS TEACHER II AT ELISEO-BELEN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, BACOLOR