August 21, 2006
Contact: Mike Christie, Sports Information Director

USA South Set To Launch Sportsmanship Initiative

(FAYETTEVILLE, N.C.) - Planning to take a proactive approach to spectator behavior at sporting events and less-than-stellar sportsmanship by coaches and student-athletes, the Presidents and administrators of the USA South Athletic Conference have announced a sportsmanship initiative with the message, “GOT SPORTSMANSHIP!”  With assistance from a NCAA grant, the Conference is launching this effort to educate students, student-athletes, coaches, parents, alumni, faculty, staff and the general public about the expectations for positive behavior as it relates to good sportsmanship at Conference athletic events.

“With this initiative, we clearly state what our expectations are for our coaches, our student-athletes and our spectators,” explains Commissioner Rita Wiggs.  “We are implementing a standard for event management and procedures across the Conference and pushing a strong educational program for all constituencies involved in our athletic events.  Our approach will be much better coordinated among our institutions.  Our overriding message is to exhibit behavior that is positive for your team – whether as a student-athlete, coach or fan.”

The central component of the initiative is a code of spectator conduct.  The message to spectators contains five elements:

·        CHEER LOUDLY & PROUDLY for your team, not against the opponents
·        No profanity, vulgarity, racist or sexist remarks
·        Show that you know the game
·        Stay away from the playing area and team bench areas
·        Zero tolerance for alcohol at all contests
·        CHEER LOUDLY & PROUDLY for your team, not against the opponents

The code will appear on signage at both indoor and outdoor venues, in game programs, on websites and in student newspapers at all member institutions.

"Good sportsmanship is the foundation of any quality athletic program and athletic conference,” stated Bob McEvoy, President of the USA South and Methodist College Athletic Director.  “While our coaches and student-athletes have been solid in this area in the past, I am excited about our new ‘Got Sportsmanship’ initiative.  I believe the sporting behavior of all involved will take the USA South to the next level and set us apart from many like conferences in the area of good sportsmanship."

Ian Newbould, President of North Carolina Wesleyan College and Chair of the Presidents’ Council, expressed similar sentiments.  "The Conference Presidents wholeheartedly support this initiative to develop a coordinated and united approach in relaying behavior expectations for fans at our events, as well as student-athletes and coaches.  Our goal is to educate each of these groups regarding positive sportsmanship actions.  The message is powerful when all institutions are supportive of the initiative."