October 16, 2005
The 2005 National High School Activities Week kicks off today with National Be a Sport Day, a day to encourage awareness and discussion about the importance of sportsmanship, ethics and integrity during interscholastic programs. Ethics, integrity and respect are values important in our daily lives. All of these values are learned by participation in interscholastic activity programs.
Did you know?
Illinois is the only state association to have its own Sportsmanship Mascot.
Created in the summer of 1997, Add A. Tude represents the vigor and friendliness of proper behavior that is the backbone of good sportsmanship. Add A. Tude is a player, a teacher, a community leader, and a team supporter who willingly volunteers to serve as a positive role model for the elementary and high school interscholastic athletic and activitiy programs in Illinois. Add A. Tude stands for self-control, positive support and respect for authority and peers. To request a special appearance by Add A. Tude at your next event contact the IHSA office.
Role models are more important than ever in today’s society. You can serve as a role model for others the next time you display good sportsmanship at a high school athletic event. Good sports are winners, so the next time you attend a sporting event, remember to be a good sport and act properly. Your ticket to an interscholastic athletic event is a privilege, a privilege to watch youngsters learn on the playing field. Good sportsmanship is learned, practiced and executed. Respect for the opponent, spectators, coaches, and officials is necessary at all levels of athletics and activity programs. Display good sportsmanship the next time you attend a high school event.
BE A SPORT!