May 12, 2014
Youth sports provide a great avenue for your kids to build self-esteem and learn invaluable life lessons.
They also provide an opportunity for parents and coaches to teach the importance of good sportsmanship to youth athletes. Our kids look to their role models for guidance, and when adults and athletes have a win-at-all-costs mentality, it can tarnish the game and bring out the worst in everyone. Good sportsmanship really does matter.
Liberty Mutual Insurance Responsible Sports sat down with USA Water Polo Men's Senior National Team standout Michael Rosenthal to get his thoughts of good sportsmanship.
In our exclusive TAKE 5 interview, Michael told us that he is impressed with the current state of sportsmanship in water polo, which he calls "strong."
"The water polo world is a tight-knit community," said Michael. "And even though things can get rough in the game, after the final whistle, most of the time the players are very respectful towards one another."
Michael also shared how he demonstrates good sportsmanship before and after each match, and it's remarkably simple and easy to do.
"Before every game, both teams shake hands," said Michael. "While this may seem like a simple thing to do, it definitely serves as a reminder that sportsmanship is an important part of our sport. Personally, I say good game to the opposing players after a match, regardless of the outcome."
Michael also recalled an impressive display of sportsmanship from the UCLA coach while he was competing against his archrival Bruins in the 2012 NCAA Championship as a member of the USC Trojans. Read his full Q&A for his story.
In Michael's experience, coaches can do a lot to promote good sportsmanship among youth athletes, since they are "the leaders of teams." He also believes players themselves can do a lot to set a strong example in and out of the pool.
"Water polo is a physical sport," explained Michael. "Hitting, kicking, and wrestling are all part of the game. Play tough and don't back down, but when the game is over, leave it in the pool. Shake hands, acknowledge each other as competitors and show respect towards one another."
You can read the full TAKE 5 interview with Michael at ResponsibleSports.com. And come back next month for another exclusive TAKE 5 interview!
At Liberty Mutual Insurance, we constantly look for ways to celebrate the countless acts of responsibility shown by people every day. We created Responsible Sports, powered by Positive Coaching Alliance, as part of this belief to help ensure that our kids experience the best that sports have to offer in environments that promote and display responsibility. We believe kids can learn valuable life lessons when coaches and parents come together to support winning in and out of the pool.
Join the Responsible Sports movement!
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