Expectations and Reminders for Spectators at CPS Athletic Contests
- Remember that you are there to support the student-athletes.
- Remember that young people play sports for THEIR enjoyment, not to entertain you.
- Do not have unrealistic expectations of performance and understand that striving to be one’s best is as important as winning.
- Purchasing a ticket or otherwise obtaining admission to the contest is a privilege to observe the contest, not a license to be indiscriminate in what you say and what you do.
- Learn the rules of the game, so that you may understand and appreciate why certain situations take place.
- Understand that spectators that exhibit unruly or unsportsmanlike behavior can be removed from the contest venue with no refund.
Acceptable and Encouraged Behaviors
- Root for your team with chants of praise and/or encouragement in order to uplift the students.
- Respect the official’s decisions and encourage all participants to do the same.
- Respect and show appreciation for the coaches and understand that they have given their time to provide sport activities for our young people.
- Encourage athletes and coaches to play by the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence.
- Show respect for your team’s opponents and realize there would be no game without them.
Unacceptable Behaviors
- Bad language and harassing athletes, coaches, officials or other spectators.
- Language or gestures to mock or intimidate athletes, coaches, officials or other spectators.
- Ridiculing an athlete for making a mistake or taunting students on the other team.
Credit: Contributing text courtesy of the Ohio High School Athletic Association