POSITIVE GAME ENVIRONMENT

POSITIVE GAME ENVIRONMENT It’s everyone’s responsibility. Poor sportsmanship at athletics events can destroy the school’s front door to community, which is what the Division II community-engagement effort seeks to create. As new audiences are drawn in through the athletics program, great care must be taken to make certain that the impressions are positive. The overall production of any athletics event is a reflection on the institution in general. Individuals attracted to an institution through community engagement may feel disappointed or even deceived if the experience at an athletic event is poor. The game environment can be compromised through factors other than behavior. We should be equally concerned about whether the setting is comfortable and whether the event is lively and entertaining. We believe a positive athletic environment and ethical approach to sport, scholarship and service is important to character development and the overall success of the intercollegiate athletic experience. We value respect, fairness, civility, honesty and responsibility. These values should be manifest in the full spectrum of activities affecting the athletics program. Three tests come to mind when considering what comprises a positive game environment:

IS IT CIVIL?

IS IT COMFORTABLE?

IS IT ENTERTAINING?

• We encourage suitable behavior from coaches and participating student-athletes.

• Restroom and other auxhilary facilities are maintained well and clean.

• The school offers a cheer team, dance crew and pep band in create positive energy.

• Administrators and/or campus safety will confront unacceptable behavior in the stands.

• Snacks offered at our concession stand is good and affordable. Healthy alternatives are available.

• Scorer’s table signage is used to further communicate ingame messaging in an engaging way.

• Student-athlete spectators are advised in advance of the behavior that is expected of them in the stands.

• Fans will be welcomed to all events by courteous, welldressed staff.

• Athletic events exist as a way to support the broader campus-wide efforts to enrich “school spirit”

• We are committed to providing ample seating for home and visiting fans at each event.