From the superintendent’s desk

Stockbridge schools setting tone for good sportsmanship

Hello Stockbridge Families,

We continue to focus on sportsmanship and are calling on our administration, students, coaches, parents, staff and community to uphold a higher standard of sportsmanship. We recognize that the most concerning issues are created by a few individuals who generate a negative environment. I still believe that we can all improve in the area of sportsmanship and in doing so, create an environment that reduces or eliminates unwanted behaviors.

It is important to address sportsmanship from many perspectives; including the administration, student athletes, student fans, parents, community members, coaches, opponents and the officials. Each of these perspectives has a different take on the game and engages in a different way.

As an administrator, I feel it is important to create a positive environment and set a tone for good sportsmanship. This should be apparent in the expectations that we set for the athletic programs, how a venue is set up, and the communications that take place between the participating teams, coaches and the officials. I also believe that it is important to be explicit and set expectations for how all participants conduct themselves when they engage in athletic events. Please come out to support our student athletes and look for ways to encourage them while setting the tone for a positive environment.

Throughout the year, we will continue to evaluate our sportsmanship expectations and find ways that we can integrate acts of positive sportsmanship in our programs. We strive to have a school community that embodies the attributes of good sportsmanship. I hope this is noticeable to you when you come to our athletic events and that you will support the initiatives that we put in place.

A good rule of thumb in promoting sportsmanship in our school and community is to be edifying, building our student athletes up and showing them encouragement. Focus on the positive. I appreciate your support and look forward to cheering with you in the future.

Thank you,

Go Panthers!

Brian Friddle
Superintendent of Schools