OLMatters

 

PHILOSOPHY OF THE GREEN CARD

 

Sportsmanship and fair play are central to the philosophy and mission of the Big 8, as well as core themes of the athletic program of each Big 8 member school. The purpose of the Green Card is to honor and reinforce these core ideals after each Big 8 game.  To receive a Green Card, whether in victory or defeat, is both an honor and a responsibility; an honor because you have been recognized by your peers as an athlete who exhibits the highest degree of sportsmanship, a responsibility because of the expectation of sustained excellence that comes with that honor.

 

 

GREEN CARD GUIDELINES

 

The athlete from each team who exhibits the ideals of sportsmanship and fair play to the highest degree is awarded the Green Card after each contest. 

 

The Green Card is not necessarily about skill or popularity, and the winner need be strictly measured according to their level of sportsmanship.

 

The Green Card winner’s verbal and body language, gestures, and interaction with fans, opposing coaches and referees must be of a positive nature for the duration of the game.   

 

The Green Card winner displays respect to his own team by not yelling, displaying anger, or arguing with fellow team members.

 

The Green Card winner displays respect to opposing team and spectators by not provoking or insulting anyone.

 

The Green Card winner displays respect to referees by accepting and acting appropriately to referee’s decisions.

 

The Green Card winner shows concern for injured players regardless of the team.

 

The Green Card winner does not trash talk or celebrate excessively.