SPORTSMANSHIP

Fair play, respect for discipline, recognition of the need for team work and cheerfulness even in the event of defeat are thus the dominant marks of a sportsman. It is evident that sportsmanship is something worthy of admirations. It is conducive to human happiness and welfare.

Sportsmanship implies first fair play. In games if any player plays foul, the side to which he belongs is penalized. Similarly in bigger game of life one should always be fair in one’s dealing with others.


Fairness, honesty, integrity, openness of heart and frankness - these are the qualities that a sportsman should display in life. One should not practice deceptions, should not bluff, should not cheat others and should indulge in diplomacy or humbleness. A sportsman never takes undue advantage of the weakness of his adversary nor does he hit below the bet.

Next, sportsmanship implies obedience to the leader. In games the players have to obey their captain and yield to him on points on which disagree with him. They should repose the fullest confidence in their captains. In life too, a sportsman yields to his superior even if he does not agree with him. Respect for discipline is an essential part of sportsmanship.