Sporting events are a great way to de-stress and have fun as you build business relationships or seek career opportunities. Just be sure that you are not stressing someone else out in the process! Your behavior is on display for all to see and experience! Get excited, but stay within the limits of fairness and courtesy.
Sporting events are divided into two categories: (1) Spectator and (2) Participant. Both require good sportsmanship. There will be times when you will be the spectator and times when you will be the participator. Stay in your role! Regardless of your role, sportsmanship ─ like courage ─ is “grace” under pressure. Always congratulate the winning team or individual and compliment the losing team.
Being a spectator allows you to get emotionally involved in the action. Remember, you are the spectator not the referee; your behavior will have a direct reflection on your company and on you. In the excitement of the game, avoid displaying anger or frustration at a play. You are not the one on the field making that decision. You are a spectator! It is okay to yell; however, it is not okay to use profanity or angry, abusive language. Do not distract the players or argue with the coach. Players and coaches are human. They are making the best possible decision at that moment from their own point of view. You are not sitting or standing at their point of view.
In the heat of the moment, it is easy to be rude or discourteous because you are simply caught up in the moment of the play and displaying your excitement. When this happens, take a moment to apologize to anyone you may have offended. If you are addressing offensive behavior, monitor your tone of voice and facial expression to ensure a favorable reaction.
Being a participator allows you to be physical and competitive. Just be sure you are physically able to handle the challenge and that you know the rules of the game. Be prepared! Before participating in an event, get in shape. This is no time to take a crash session in exercise, especially if you have not been active for a long period of time.
Ask if you will need to bring your own equipment. If you do not have the necessary equipment, check on rental availability ahead of time. Do not assume that the equipment needed will be provided or that equipment rental will be available at the site. If equipment will not be available, do not buy equipment, rent it! Only purchase the equipment if you are sure you will be participating in the sport on a regular basis.
The focus, whether as a spectator or as a participator, should be on the spirit of the game and not ego-related. It is not about you. It is about the game. Winning should be based on contributing to the group, integrity, dedication, and sacrifices for the betterment of the group or team. Career opportunities are everywhere! Be sure that your best “people skills” are always on display, especially at sporting events. The person next to you or on your team could impact your career in a positive or negative way. Your behavior is your choice!
Share your good sportsmanship tip or experience. Below are three to get you started.
- Never berate your partner or complain about his or her playing style.
- Abstain from foul language and outbursts of anger, even if the anger is toward yourself.
- When finished, shake hands with everyone, compliment their game, and thank them for letting you join them, or thank them for being your partner.
- Your tip . . .