“Hey ref, what kind of call was that?” “You have to be kidding me! That was not a pin!” As the closing of winter activities approaches, competition grows fierce, adrenaline runs high, and tempers can flare! It is at this time when both competitors and fans need to concentrate on good sportsmanship.

Great Fans- Great Sports is a program developed in partnership with the University of Nebraska- Lincoln and the NU Alumni Association to promote sportsmanship in local communities. By promoting good sportsmanship among athletes, students, parents, and fans we can create a more positive environment for our young people to compete and learn.

Good sportsmanship is important in many parts of life, and helps build character. The goal of this program is to promote good sportsmanship and recognize those individuals who show respect and responsibility in their actions, show good sportsmanship, and/or are caught in the act of being a good “sport” in whatever they do.

The best way fans can support competition is to show good sportsmanship. So, be responsible, show respect, be encouraging, and be fair, and you will be a great fan. For more information, contact your local extension office or check it out at www.greatfansgreatsports.com.