Sportsmanship

Participating in sports should be fun and rewarding for everyone involved. Learn how to make sports a positive experience no matter how the scoreboard looks.

PCA’s mission is to be a catalyst for a positive youth sports culture in all communities across the U.S. We envision a future where all youth can benefit from a positive, inclusive sports culture that develops social and emotional skills, molds character and prepares them for competition and for life.

Why it's Important to Avoid Tension on the Sidelines 

October 25, 2019

Knowing how to best support your athlete is key in creating a positive sport experience for not only your athlete, but also for their team and the rest of the parents on the sidelines supporting their athletes. 

Recommended reading

View all sportsmanship articles 

More sportsmanship articles

Players Must Treat Teammates With Respect, Even When They Don't Get Along 

September 06, 2018

10 Ways to Build More Resilient Kids  

August 01, 2017

Winning is fun. But for every team that wins, there’s another that loses. 

NFL Alumni Help Raise Funds for Youth Football Program 

April 02, 2019

Sled Preds Teammates Share Bond of Service, Hockey 

April 15, 2019

“John, Joey and I just kind of came together and we have been training and pushing each other forward,” said Maenza. “It’s fun to be here and be a part of it. We love it.” 

How to Help Your Athletes Fight the Culture of Comparison 

August 20, 2019

With the influence of social media, there has been a lot of pressure on young athletes to do better and be better than their peers.Here are five ways you can encourage your athlete to avoid comparing themselves to others.  

Teaching your Athletes the Fun and Safe Way to Have a Sports Rivalry 

June 17, 2019

Honesty Plays Big Role for Discus Thrower 

May 25, 2018

7 Tips for a Positive Parent-Coach Relationship 

October 21, 2020

Honoring the Game — Life is a Team Sport 

May 13, 2020

“Honoring The Game,” is one of the most sacred of principles we teach for athletes, coaches, parents and leaders. 

How are Your Athlete’s Life Skills? 

August 07, 2020

As we enter into another year of school, ask yourself "how are my athlete's life skills" 

5 Ways to Encourage Teamwork From the Sideline 

August 15, 2017

When you're at the game to cheer you can also help your young athlete learn to be a great teammate with these five tips for encouraging teamwork from the sidelines. 

7 Reasons to Invest in a Multi-Sport Camp 

June 20, 2019

Special Olympics Help Bring Community Together 

April 15, 2019

6 Simple Reasons Why Athletes May Not Meet Their Goals 

December 10, 2020

Keep these barriers to success in mind as you help your young athletes set and work towards their goals. 

How to Make Practice Fun for a Lacrosse Goalie 

February 25, 2017

How to Deal with Extreme Emotions in Your Athletes 

December 11, 2017

It is important to develop strategies to handle the negative emotions 
View all sportsmanship articles 

Programs near you

View more 
Beginner Guides

Learning a New Sport?

View our guides for beginners and learn the basics of some of the world's most popular sports.