The home team crowd boos as the opposing team enters the field. The number of fans certainly exceeds that of their opponent, so the cheers from the visiting team’s fan base are almost muted. Pre-game announcements on the jumbo-tron remind fans, as well as players, to be respectful of each other, their teammates, and most of all, their opponent.

Colleges and universities tend to pride themselves on traditional values, setting precedent and earning the respect of the larger global community through example. The NCAA upholds the same values. So I have to wonder, why is it that no matter which college stadium you go to see a college football game, the opposing team isn’t received with the respect that being a visitor to your turf deserves? Why is it so hard to whistle or applaud your opponent (your guest) when he walks onto your field (your home) to participate in a sport that thousands have been known to pay good money to watch and enjoy? It is, after all, a sporting event that they share with each other.

Websters defines sportsmanship (in part) as the aspiration that an activity be enjoyed with proper regard for fairness, ethics, respect, and a sense of camaraderie with competitors. I believe that sportsmanship is a behavior that is learned through life experiences; with age comes wisdom. You’ve heard the old saying, he walks a mile in my shoes. Perhaps if fans were reminded of the feeling of being on both sides of a situation and that camaraderie is the foundation of good sportsmanship, wouldn’t it speak volumes to the stature of that college or university and the students they are proudly affiliated with?

Some things to remember about being a good athlete:

• treat your opponent with respect; be humble, accept them
• win without gloating; accept a compliment while giving one in return
• lose with dignity; congratulate your opponent, avoid making excuses
• demonstrate by example; do to others what you would like them to do to you

The next time you attend a college football game (or any other sporting event) be aware of your surroundings. He stands out as a gracious host who greets his guests with the respect they deserve for going the distance to be there. You may find the same reciprocal treatment when you become their guest. Sounds like a win-win situation for everyone.

As Addison Walker quotes: “It’s not true that the good guys finish last. The good guys are winners before the game even starts.”