These coaches spend much of their time teaching skills the young athletes need to be successful. Having fun is much more important to your athletes than winning. Sure, winning is part of the sport experience, but not the primary focus. Look at the list of concerns expressed by the athletes. Encourage your athletes to help each other, not criticize a teammate's performance.
Sportsmanship is taught by example.
If you can, you should be proud of yourself. If you can't, you must try harder the next time. Dr. Stratton is the editor of the monthly online newsletter Coaching Youth Sports .