In recent years many sports fans have lost perspective and have associated the collegiate and professional sports with that of high school programs. Consequently, some problem areas not associated with an educational program have cropped up. The opponent should be treated as a guest, greeted cordially on arriving, given the best accommodations and accorded the tolerance, honesty and generosity which all human beings deserve. Good sportsmanship and hospitality are the Golden Rule in action. Officials should be recognized as impartial arbitrators who are trained to do their job and who can be expected to do it to the best of their ability.
Good sportsmanship implies the willingness to accept and abide by the decision of the officials.
A familiarity with the current rules of the game in recognition of their necessity for a fair contest is essential. Good sportsmanship suggests the importance of conforming to the spirit as well as the letter of the rules. A prerequisite of good sportsmanship requires one to understand his own bias or prejudice and to have the ability to recognize that rational behavior is more important than the desire to win. A proper perspective must be maintained if the potential educational values of athletic competition are to be realized. Good sportsmanship is concerned with the behavior of all involved in the game.