Good sportsmanship is essential in the APA Pool League. I love (as I’m sure you do) and enjoy players who are fun to play with and against, have a positive attitude whether they win or lose, always play by the rules and who go out of their way to make sure everyone has a great time playing in the league. I love players who can win or lose with dignity and respect for their opponent and still visit/party together and enjoy each other’s company. It is such a pleasure to be around those who are fair, courteous and polite day-in and day-out, win or lose.
For most of us, good sportsmanship comes naturally out of respect for others and the game we love, and our behavior is not swayed by our winning or losing. While good sportsmanship may come easy to most of us, sometimes those with a competitive nature need a little practice to put sportsmanship at the top of their game.
We don’t come to APA events to be insulted, offended or disturbed by unsportsmanlike conduct.
The APA (American Poolplayers Association) was founded on the premise of offering amateur pool players the opportunity to get together with friends, family and co-workers to have a fun and relaxing time playing pool. It is intended to be a family friendly event, an event men would not be afraid to invite the wives or kids to watch or join in.
Good manners are imperative and important to the honor of the League. We all appreciate players who boost the morale of players and teams by complementing opponent’s good shots. We appreciate and enjoy those who smile, shake hands, give high-fives and talk friendly to opponents. Tell your opponents "good game!" whether you've won or you've lost.
Recognize and appreciate good performances, especially by the opponent. Applause for an opponent’s good play demonstrates generosity and courtesy and it shows a true awareness of the game and ability.
We see bad examples on TV in the sports world all the time. For many the concept of good sportsmanship has been lost. Some today feel no shame for their awful behavior. While winning at all costs and poor sportsmanship may be condoned and even promoted in professional sports, this does not mean it is acceptable for us normal people to behave this way. We have seen plenty of bad examples. We need good examples. We need leaders. Be the leader, set the example and be everything we expect from Ladies and Gentlemen.
