Win Or Lose, Show A Little Class

Sat., Nov. 11, 2000

Anamarie Burton Special To Staff writer

Whether we realize it or not, sportsmanship makes a large impact on our lives. When we look into our future or reflect on our past we will remember how we acted and how we could have acted differently.

I agree that cheering, yelling loudly and rooting for our team, be it a high school basketball team or a professional baseball team, is a good way to show our enthusiasm and support. But not when the cheering and yelling turn negative.

Since entering high school two years ago, I have experienced, firsthand, the effects of both positive and poor sportsmanship.

We may be losing but why put down the other team for playing well? Why act in a negative fashion when all it does is show that you, as a whole, have no class?

Does it make your team do better? I feel the answer is no. Yelling negative statements across a crowded, hot, noisy gym does not support your team. Like a dark cloud, it rains disgrace on them. Negative remarks make opponents view you as a poor sport. That is not a title most of us want on our name plates.

Throughout the winter sports season, in my position as scorekeeper for basketball, I have witnessed a team, parents and a whole school laugh when a player on our team fell and was injured. From that moment on, the two teams were like vicious dogs.

The crowd barked insulting words at the opposing team and the two raging schools were almost at the breaking point of their chains.

From my seat behind the score table, I could not believe how rude the hosts were acting toward their guests. If these same people had company in their own homes, I doubt they would be that rude.

I am not writing to put down those who get really involved in the game and end up shouting bitter remarks. I am just writing in the hope that people will look at themselves and evaluate their actions.

I congratulate those who choose to defy the crowd and act in an appropriate manner.

I feel sorry for those who feel put-downs are the only way to boost their confidence.

Next time you stand up to yell something negative, remember who you are representing - yourself and the team you think you are supporting.

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