Sportsmanship

The US Women's Soccer team won the world cup this summer for the second time in a row.  Although this was a great accomplishment, it came with a lot of controversy.  Multiple times during the tournament, the team ran the score up on its weaker opponents and zealously celebrated at each goal.  Some, like Nike, thought their obnoxious behavior was a wonderful representation of empowered women in the sports world.  Many others, however, criticized their antics and called it for what I saw it as, unsportsmanlike behavior.  From watching Doug coach over the years, I quickly learned that in soccer a stronger team does not pile on the goals.  Instead it was common courtesy to work on other aspects of the game like passing, trapping and goalie skills.   Excessive celebration in those situations was seen as rude and condescending behavior.  It was unfortunate that the women's soccer team received media attention for their lack of respect in playing weaker opponents.  It has been obvious this fall that some girls' high school coaches have followed suit, winning games by double digit scores.  Thus, humiliating teams instead of demonstrating good sportsmanship and love of the game.

Thankfully, Cameron does not have to deal with any of that year.  His former mentor and four year tennis coach has gone out of his way to teach good sportsmanship by example.  His enthusiasm for the game has been ever present in both victories and loses.  He models positive behavior, encourages his players, and celebrates their success as well as that of their opponents.  Matt's team has been respectful on the court and off.  They have been know to yell, "Let's Go!" or "Great shot!" after a point, but they have also been seen congratulating those from the other team who had an ace or hit a winner.  I noticed last night that Bethany's positive spirit had even rubbed off on the team that they were playing.  One of the boys from Fremont tonight started mocking the Bruin players.  His coach politely told him to "knock it off."  That was a welcome relief as Cam and Austin had just lost in a tough tiebreak.  Before we left, Fremont's doubles team even came over to congratulate Cam on his play this evening.  That's what I love to see in all sports.