skip navigation

Modeling Good Sportsmanship as a Coach

By Greg Bach, Dummies, 11/15/18, 12:00PM PST

Share

Set a positive tone on game day by shaking hands with the opposing coach. 

As a youth basketball coach, teaching kids the importance of good sportsmanship can be challenging. What makes teaching (and modeling) good sportsmanship particularly tricky is that youngsters are bombarded with images of older basketball players trash talking, showboating and disrespecting opponents and officials.

However, keep in mind that you’re fighting the good fight: Good sportsmanship is one of the healthiest ideals you can instill in your players.

Incorporate the following suggestions into your coaching philosophy. They can help make your team one of the most liked and respected teams in the league (and your players the envy of all parents in the stands).