SPORTSMANSHIP 2007-08

To: Member Schools, Officials, Students, Parents & Public

The Northeast District Athletic Board arranges and oversees sectional/ district tournaments in Northeast Ohio. Manager meetings are held seasonally for each sport tourney to provide site managers with up-to-date information and guidelines from the OHSAA Board of Control/Commissioner's staff.

The tournament phase of our yearly schedule reminds us to alert coaches, athletic administrators, principals, superintendents and contest officials of our collective and collaborative responsibilities regarding ethical behavior, integrity and sportsmanship.

Even though the Board of Control has initiated strong penalties to deal with inappropriate and unacceptable behavior of players, coaches and fans, both student and adult, each member school should have reflective guidelines to identify the role and value of extra-curricular activities/interscholastic athletics.

Referring to our Ohio High School Athletic Association Handbook where sportsmanship, ethics and integrity are referenced in more than one section, the "Mission Statement" establishes a standard of expectations for all athletic programs. It states:

"Good sportsmanship is viewed by the National Federation as a commitment
to fair play, ethical behavior and integrity. In perception and practice,
sportsmanship is defined as those qualities which are characterized by
generosity and genuine concern for others. The ideals of sportsmanship
apply equally to all activity disciplines. Individuals, regardless of their role in
activities, are expected to be aware of their influence on the behavior of
others and model good sportsmanship."




The Northeast District Board, OHSAA Board of Control, Commissioner and Staff Encourages:

"Promoting Good Sportsmanship by Example"


If there is any way we can help or provide pertinent information on sportsmanship, ethics and integrity, please feel free to contact any member of the Northeast District Board.