Athletic Sportsmanship Guidelines

The goal of our school regarding sportsmanship is to foster respect and fair competition among all athletes, coaches, parents and other spectators, and officials.

Athletic competition at Hilton Head Preparatory School is guided by the following ideals:

• Participants should always:
  • play hard within the rules of the game.
  • win with humility, lose graciously, thank officials and congratulate players and coaches after the contest.
  • werve as host to visiting teams and spectators by directing them to dressing and game locations.
  • never attempt to injure an opponent.
  • refrain from taunting, using profanity or gesturing to opponents or spectators.
  • demonstrate respect towards officials at all times. Only captains should speak to officials about rules' clarification. Judgment calls are accepted without question or demonstration of displeasure.
  • respect the property and facilities of opponents. Leave locker rooms and bench areas clean and orderly after games.
  • be positive and supportive towards their coaches and teammates.
• Coaches should always:
  • serve as a positive role model for their players.
  • show restraint and respect when dealing with officials. Proper application of the rules may be questioned; judgment calls should be accepted without overt demonstration. Avoid blaming officials for losses.
  • hold their players accountable for unsportsmanlike behavior. Players violating the above expectations should be removed from the game.
  • refrain from publicly berating players for mistakes.
  • reinforce good sportsmanship in practice sessions.
  • require good dress for games.
  • maintain order in the locker room.
• Spectators should always:
  • appreciate and commend good effort and skill no matter which individual or team exhibits it.
  • treat officials, opposing cheerleaders, players, coaches and fans with respect and courtesy.
  • refrain from calling opposing players by name, singling out an opposing player for personal criticism, taunting, using profane language or cheers directed at officials, opponents or cheerleaders.

As a coach, student athlete, parent and fan of Hilton Head Prep we must recognize the importance of our responsibilities to honor and encourage good sportsmanship. Realize that you are representing yourself, your team and our school and community as we compete at home or on the road. The leadership you take in sportsmanship will help influence our school and community for years to come....do so with class and dignity.