AD_Spectator Sportsmanship Guidelines

 

SPECTATOR SPORTSMANSHIP IS A PRIORITY AT RHS ATHLETIC EVENTS

We have much to be proud of here at Ridgefield High School. Our award winning athletics program is an extension of the quality educational experience offered to students at RHS. The achievements of our students - both in and out of the classroom - are recognized throughout the State of Connecticut. In athletics, there is a wonderful and rich tradition of excellence. Many of our student athletes have set records, winning All- Conference, All-State and All-American Honors. League and State Championships have often been achieved at a team level, as well. It is also the goal of every team to be honored at the conclusion of their season by being selected to receive the Sportsmanship awards which are designated by the membership of each sport’s officiating association. These awards are based on the behavior of our players, coaches and spectators.

The support that our teams receive from the students, parents and friends of Ridgefield Athletics is outstanding. Even when we compete away from home, familiar faces are always in the crowd cheering the Tigers on. Please remember the duties of the spectators are to support the team in a positive manner:

  • to cheer when the team does well
  • to support the team when it struggles
  • to accept the decisions of the officials

We ask that spectators cheer for our team, not against our opponents. It is confusing and upsetting to all when spectators ‘coach’ the players and question the decisions of the coaches, players, officials, and opponents. The behavior that is exhibited in the stands is seen and heard by all – particularly our student athletes. We ask that you show respect and courtesy to the players from both teams and, regardless of the outcome of the game, support the efforts of both teams.

The Game Officials are men and women who are assigned to administer the rules. Their experience and integrity qualify them for their part in our competitions. Please show them respect no matter what your personal feelings or loyalty may be.

The coaches will coach, the players will play and the spectators will cheer. Working together, we can create an enjoyable and positive environment for our student athletes. Please help us to make Ridgefield a place that sets the standard of excellence for sportsmanship and fair play throughout the whole FCIAC.

Spectator Sportsmanship expectations

Ridgefield High School expects a high standard of conduct from all players, parents, and spectators at athletic contests. Inappropriate spectator behavior reflects poorly on Ridgefield High School and may result in the loss of spectator privileges, and disciplinary action. We need to be positive role models for other spectators.

    WE WILL.........

  • Be in control at all times; taunting, baiting, physical retaliation will not be tolerated.
  • Be considerate of opposing players and coaches;
  • Be gracious in victory and sportsmanlike in defeat;
  • Respect their judgement and accept the decisions made by the officials and/or coaches;
  • Treat officials and opponents with the respect due them as fellow human beings;
  • Show respect for the facilities - both at home and our opponents;
  • Support our cheerleaders in a positive manner.

    WE WILL NOT PARTICIPATE IN.....

  • The booing or razzing of anyone or cheering an injury to an opponent;
  • The use of profanity or any abusive language and/or inappropriate gestures of any kind;
  • The throwing of objects.
  • Use of noisemakers of any kind.
  • Negative comments
  • Targeting a player/coach/spectator from the opposing team