How to be a Good Sport

Do you ever just want to slam your racquet? Maybe launch a ball? Or even stomp your feet and kick? Well, as much as we want to wave our arms and stomp our feet...we can’t. Since the days of Margaret Court, there has always been an expected level of respect and etiquette that must be sustained throughout play. Are you confused on what is allowed and what’s not? No problem! Below are 5 tips to remind you that ordering a cafe mocha on changeovers is not allowed... # 1. Cooperative Warmups Before every match begins, you and your opponent are allowed five minutes to warm up. This is not a time to pull your best moves and start hitting winners. This is a time to make sure your opponent has an equally beneficial warmup as you do. # 2. Serves That are Out It is often tempting to want to hit your laser down the line backhand after your opponent throws in a weak serve that landed out. However, you should not hit out serves back. You can either roll them into the net or let it roll behind you. # 3. Call the Score Often when down or losing you do not want to call the score out. Nonetheless, no matter if you're down you should still call the score out to prevent confusion between you and your opponent. # 4. Be Respectful Not all games are games of luck but tennis sure can be. Sometimes the tennis gods are just on your side. If it so happens to be your day make sure to always apologize to your opponent after winning a cheap point. For example, if the ball clips the net and rolls over you should apologize to your opponent by simply holding your racquet up. Or if you win a point due to a double fault you should refrain from cheering. # 5. Be a Humble Competitor Lastly, be a humble competitor. Whether it was a grueling five set match or simply a double bagel, the match should always be finished with a civilized handshake at the net, while maintaining eye contact with your opponent.