How to Play Competitively in a Social Sports League

July 19, 2018 - 5 years ago

White line fever is real. You’re a good human normally, but as asoon as you cross that line onto the field something takes over. 

We run competitive sports, you’re playing to win. We get it, and what’s the point in playing if you don’t want to win, right? But NEWSFLASH, there’s a way to win gracefully. 

We spoke to our event hosts to get their tips on how to play competitvely in a social sports league, without being a dick. 

“Don’t exploit weaknesses in other teams. If you are playing against a player who is relatively beginner, and you are more experienced, move away from this player and mark someone else who is more challenging.” Donald, UR Canberra

“Competitive doesn’t = aggressive. You can play hard, and skillful without being intimidating or aggressive. Smile. It lets the opposition know you are having fun, and you don’t mean anything agressive in your game.” Mads, UR Sydney

“If your team want to play hard, don’t then get upset when your opposition meets you at that level. Sometimes a good, heated, and competitive game is what people want, but if your opposition sense your energy, they will meet you there, don’t get upset because you set the tone.” Sam, Touch Footy

“If you can see a team are competely beginner, smashing them on the scoreboard does absolutely nothing. It makes them feel like shit, and you look like a pack a douche bags. Find a way to challenge your team, and have fun with it. Work on your defense, or make some challenging passes, or shots for fun.” Danny, Soccer

”Don’t show off. Remind yourself this is a local social sports game, you look silly side stepping and running trick shots, if you want to level up your play, save it for the big league” Daniel, Flag Gridiron

”Praise the opposition, keep your talk positive and only about your team and have a laugh! Even if you play hard but fair, the way you conduct yourself goes a long way. You should be excited to play every team even if one has more ability than the other, the social aspect brings fun to every week!" Zak, Multisport

“Engage the other team. Always start and finish each session with a handshake no matter what. Have some banter. Make sure there is a joke or two going between you and the oppositon, it helps to ease any tension during play. Be self-deprecating. Laugh at yourself went you miss a shot or fumble the ball. Congratulate the other team if they make a good shot, block or steal. You want to be friends with these people in the pub after the game, and you want them to come back next season to play.” Andy, Basketball

“Learn the rules of the sport that you're going to be playing, don't be afraid to ask more experienced players (on your team or the opposition) for a little guidance and ask the host for clarification if you don't understand something. If you're an experienced player, don't try to exploit rules and play within the spirit of the game.” Jamie, Netball