A Good Sport

You hear a lot of talk about being a good sport, but what does it really mean? A good sport learns the rules of the game so they will not break them, and then plays with all their heart, trying hard to outplay the other team.

When a good sport wins, they do not act smug. They shake hands and tell the other team they played a fine game. When a good sport loses, they accept it, figure out why, and work to do better next time. They enjoy the game right to the end, even when the score is not going their way. That is what the Scout Law means when it says a Scout is friendly and courteous. The point of the game is not only to win. It is to find joy and strength in trying.

This week, at practice, in gym class, or at a game night, be the first to say good game to the other side, win or lose.