MHSA Sportsmanship Article:

"Dear Mom and Dad - Cool It" By Karissa Niehoff, Executive Director of the National Federation of State High School Associations and Mark Beckman, Executive Director of the Montana High School Association.

Spectators:

Fan behavior whether at home or away at athletic contests reflect on the entire community. Hometown fans should treat out-of-town guests with respect. Similarly, visiting fans should treat their hosts—both individuals and property — with proper appreciation.

• 1. Know and demonstrate good sportsmanship.
• 2. Be positive. Cheer for your team rather than against the opposition.
• 3. Refrain from booing and name calling.
• 4. Respect the officials’ point of view. He/she is in charge and is doing his/her best.
• 5. Remember, athletic contests are, in one respect, just like driving, they do not mix with mood altering substances.
• 6. Do not use profanity in cheers or direct profane statements at officials, players, coaches or opposing cheering sections.
• 7. Do not single out opposing players personally and heckle them by directing derogatory or profane statements/chants at them. This includes signs, posters, and clothing that would be deemed inappropriate. Racist remarks are never acceptable.
• 8. Do not advance on the court or field to protest or communicate with officials, coaches or players.
• 9. The student sections are prohibited from any activity that poses a safety risk or interferes with competition, including jumping or bouncing on the bleachers at any time.

Thank you for supporting our players, coaches, and officials!