• Dear Parents,

    As we gear up for an exciting season of athletic events, I’d like to take a moment to emphasize the importance of sportsmanship and respectful behavior at our games. Your presence at your child’s events plays a crucial role in shaping their experience. Your support and enthusiasm are invaluable to our athletes, and we deeply appreciate your dedication to creating a positive environment for everyone involved.

    Respect for Referees and Coaches

    Referees and coaches are integral to the success of our games. Their time, effort, and commitment help ensure the smooth conduct of every event, and it’s essential that we show them the respect they deserve. Please keep the following in mind:

    • Respectful Communication: Always engage with referees and coaches in a respectful manner. Avoid using derogatory language or gestures, regardless of the situation.
    • Positive Encouragement: Focus on cheering for our teams with positive reinforcement, which can significantly boost morale and performance.
    • Understanding and Patience: Referees and coaches make decisions based on their best judgment. Understand that they are human and can make mistakes. Patience and understanding foster a positive atmosphere.
    • Allow Coaches to Coach: Please refrain from coaching from the sidelines. Allow our coaches to guide the team effectively while you focus on supporting and cheering for the athletes. Employ the 24-hour rule, waiting a day before discussing practice or game situations with coaches.
    • Lead by Example: Your behavior sets an example for our athletes. Demonstrating good sportsmanship and respect encourages them to do the same.

    Creating a Positive Environment

    Our goal is to create a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected. By modeling sportsmanship, you’re teaching your child invaluable life lessons that go beyond the field or court—such as fair play, graciousness in victory and defeat, and the ability to accept decisions made by referees.

    To maintain this positive environment, please adhere to the following guidelines:

    • Refrain from Using Noisemakers: The use of noisemakers is strictly prohibited at events. Let’s cheer with our voices and applause, keeping the focus on the game.
    • Conform to Accepted Standards of Sportsmanship: Show respect to all officials, coaches, staff, and players. Extend courtesies to everyone involved, regardless of the game’s outcome.
    • Avoid Crude or Abusive Language or Gestures: Be mindful of your words and actions. Refrain from using offensive language or gestures directed toward anyone at the event.
    • Respect Building and Grounds Regulations: Follow all venue rules and guidelines. If you notice behavior that doesn’t align with these standards, please notify the building authorities.
    • Do Not Target Individuals: Spectators must not single out any player, coach, or official for criticism. Let’s focus on supporting our team as a whole.

    By adhering to these principles, we can ensure that our games remain enjoyable and enriching experiences for everyone involved.

    Thank you for your continued support and cooperation. Together, let’s create a culture of sportsmanship that promotes respect, integrity, and camaraderie in school sports. Let’s make this season one to remember for all the right reasons!

    Sincerely,

     

    Michael Brostowski 

    Athletic Director

     

    Resources:

    The Truth About Sports Parents, The Kids Get REAL

    Spectator PSA

    Roslyn High School Livestream Game Link

    Section VIII Livestream Game Links

    Nassau County Section VIII – Become an Official

    Nassau BOCES, Section VIII Website

    Roslyn Middle School Athletic Website

    Roslyn High School Athletic Website

    Section VIII Ejection Consequences