Sportsmanship leaves lasting impression

With school either back in session or getting ready to return, that also means athletics are back with us.

Middle school and high school athletic teams are getting underway and with those games on the horizon, it's a good time to remember how important it is to display good sportsmanship.

Opposing teams, schools, communities and fans often judge us by how we handle ourselves.

We leave a lasting impression by our actions and by our words. We should always remember we represent not only ourselves but our children, our communities and our schools.

Each of us has read about or seen parents, fans and coaches lose control on televised matches.

We've seen national sports figures involved in kicking dirt on someone, throwing chairs across the floor, going into the stands and getting into a punching contest, and getting red in the face yelling their disapproval.

And while such antics have been accepted and condoned at times at the national level, it's even more disturbing to read that such behavior is finding its way more and more into athletic contests between younger participants.

Few states and few communities are immune to disruptions at the local ballpark, ballfield, gym or arena.

Sadly, at times, we hear of such displays escalating into violent acts.

We must ask ourselves what message do we send and what lessons do we teach when we behave in such a manner as to bring shame upon us and those we are there to support.

Fortunately, our communities have been pretty much immune from these happenings. Parents and fans routinely praise the efforts of those involved, even with close rivalries.

It's always important to remember that the next time you attend any recreational or sporting activity, be sure to cheer on both teams. Show your encouragement of good play and good sportsmanship. And be positive in your remarks, rather than negative.

It is important to be gracious in both victory and defeat.

Don't be a fanatic. Be a fan.