Forrester PE Dept

Social Responsibility

Definition:

 

Social responsibility is the extent to which as an athlete your actions can impact on others and your conduct affects the dynamics of those around you.

 

Impact on Performance:

 

As a performer or coach you should never lose your temper, throw things, scream at officials or exhibit uncontrolled anger at any time. You are responsible for your actions and you should always demonstrate good sportsmanship/conduct and to be a role model for others. It is your responsibility to win or lose with dignity as your actions can and will influence others.When Phil O’Donnell collapsed on the pitch the players around him, from both teams, forgot they were in a game of football and done all they could to help him. To the watching crowd/TV audience this showed that in the grand scheme of things football was not that important and all rivalries are put aside to try and help someone in need. As performers this was a strong message to send to the crowd and modelled behaviour we have a social responsibility to copy.

 

There are many examples of players forgetting their social responsibility. When Eric Cantonna kicked a member of the crowd, when Louis Suarez racially abused another player, when Mike Tyson bit of part of an opponent’s ear etc. The last time YOU shouted at the referee. This is not how we would want to portray ourselves to other impressionable people. It is our social responsibility to act appropriately!