Creating a Fun, Competitive, Respectful Atmosphere at Games

Many times, the results of a game may feel controversial, especially if your team loses. In true fashion, the official rarely decides a game, but fans, coaches and teammates seem to need someone to blame. We have all been at a game when one close call leads to an uproar and then the vibe of the competition turns abruptly. No one likes to watch or play in a contentious atmosphere, much less officiate it.

Now we are in an atmosphere where teenagers are expected to make judgments and hold it together. Teenagers are still developing their brain and figuring out how life is “fair” or “unfair.” This is a situation that snowballs into controversy and becomes an activities director’s logistical nightmare.

Student-athletes wear their emotions on their sleeves, so it is essential to teach them how to react. The argument is teaching them to react appropriately or teaching them how to act ahead of the game. Either way for the situations, whether reactive or proactive, teenagers need to be taught, and it needs to be practiced.

The goal is to create an atmosphere that is fun, competitive and respectful. Without question it is easier said than done. The reality of controlling the fans really boils down to the day of the competition. However, preparing the team, players and coaches, is something that can be controlled by the activities director. Realistically, it feels silly and redundant, but it needs to be addressed.

Setting the stage is essential for student-athletes to understand the “why.” The activities director needs to break down the barrier of “us” vs. “them” when it comes to teams and officials. He or she needs to get the coach on board. Nothing is worse than when you have a respectful group of athletes and a coach that goes “off the handle” during a game. Athletes are wondering what is happening, and the fun is instantly sucked out of the event.

The goal is to be the most respectful team on the court, coach included. The activities director may need to have many conversations with the coach on his or her approach to the game and “ingame” reactions. For all intent and purposes, the action plan will work for both the team and coaches.

It is essential to be intentional during the pre-game. From the moment the officials walk onto the field or court, greet them. Coaches can introduce themselves, players can smile. As warmups continue, use your manners. Say “thank you” if a ball goes over by an official. Apologize if a ball hits the official. Again, a smile goes a long way.

During pre-game meetings with the officials, listen, smile and say “thank you” afterward. Feel free to ask a question at this time – coach or player. By now the officials should feel like this is going to be a great game.

One component is to be mindful during the game. During a game, players should retrieve the ball while running for it and handing it to an official. A player being quick and getting the ball back to the official is key. Handing it to him or her is extra. Honestly, if an official wants it thrown, he or she will signal and that can be quicker. However, make sure it is a good throw so as to not embarrass the official with a wacky bounce or “off-the-cuff throw.” If that happens, apologize.

Another key component is to be mindful of non-verbals. This needs to be practiced and encouraged and talked about often. No eyerolling, no throwing hands up in the air, no spinning around to get the fans on your side. It does not mean you agree with every call, but coaches and players need to be respectful. Fans watch reactions and feed off of it. Officials are human and do not always get it right, but smearing them with a mistake only changes the vibe of the game.

Challenge the players to own the foul or penalty by raising their hand, even being honest if your player touched it last. Coaches who agree with a call goes a long way – this can happen with a nod of the head or coaching the player to do it differently next time. Players make mistakes too, and owning it with teammates is also key.

A setter on a volleyball court owning a mistake (even if it is questionable if it was his or hers) goes a long way for the mental toughness of her teammates, especially for the hitter. Leaders acknowledging mistakes allows for the team to relax. This also sets the vibe for the game. Pointing fingers at teammates or officials during a game just kills the atmosphere.

Conversations with officials can happen. Many times, the officials will talk to the players before an out-of-bounds play. Smile and respond respectfully. Some officials will explain the call so that players and coaches have a better understanding. In fact, high school officials are there to give back. If they are enjoying the game, it is now fun for them and makes it worthwhile.

Human nature is wanting to be appreciated. When humans are appreciated and treated as such, they will remember you, the situation and want to come back. As people get treated poorly it causes anger to bubble inside. As a player and coach, defusing disrespect is key to a good game.

Sportsmanship with the opponent is always expected. Competitive games bring a whole new intensity to the atmosphere. That intensity can maintain the fun. Respect is the key. This includes respecting the officials and the opponents. Being mindful of going above and beyond with officials is next level respect. In return, this will bring next level fun and a fantastic atmosphere.

Lisa Myran-Schutte, CMAA, has been an athletic/activities director at several schools in Minnesota, including Houston High School and Pine Island High School. She is a member of the High School Today Publications Committee. She can be reached at lisa.myran.schutte@pineisland.k12.mn.us.