Applauding the opposition at children's sports.

[13m]

I was at an inter-school rugby match this afternoon (under 10s). Both teams played well and there were supporters present for both teams. Our supporters applauded the play of both teams, the opposition support however would only acknowledge the efforts of their own side.

Bad form?

[irocfan]

at that age group - most certainly! I suspect that move things on 3 or 4 years not so much

[johnxjsc1985]

Being a "good sport" sadly a thing of the past and if you cant enjoy childrens sport without being tribal what chance do the children have.

[IroningMan]

Sadly one of the factors that motivated me to bin kids' rugby coaching this year.

[13m]

Glad it wasn't just me being oversensitive.

To be honest I found it offensive. These lads were playing full-contact rugby for their respective schools, in some cases for the first time. They were getting properly stuck in and, inevitably, hurt in the process sometimes. I wouldn't dream of not acknowledging a good effort on the part of either team.

One of my ex-girlfriends was a supporter for the opposition. She always was a bad-mannered bint. But I don't think it was her influence, just ignorant ungenerous people.

[mfmman]

Both my sons play junior football. Whilst we don't applaud opposition goals routinely, exceptional bits of play get acknowledged with a 'good save, keeper' or a 'great tackle' or whatever. When I get dragged into running the line I will also tell the oppositions player if he can go forward a bit to take the throw or to dry the ball/hands in his shirt etc.

[Einion Yrth]

mfmman said:

When I get dragged into running the line I will also tell the oppositions player

Point of order sir; if you are running the line then there is no opposition, unless it's all 22 of the players and conceivably the other officials.

[mfmman]

Einion Yrth said:

Point of order sir; if you are running the line then there is no opposition, unless it's all 22 of the players and conceivably the other officials.

Point taken although it's 18 not 22 I do feel I am balanced though which is something notable at just about every game I have watched as well.

Another thing I have seen is cheering of own goals, pretty unfortunate and thankfully not by the supporters of either of the boys teams

Edited by mfmman on Saturday 8th October 19:26

[Pints]

I still applaud the opposition if they score a good try at club or international rugby.

Very bad form indeed for a kids' game.