True Sport teams, clubs, athletes, coaches and teachers commit to these Principles for Sport.
Why do the Principles for Sport matter?
They help us build the sport we want. The True Sport Principles for Sport express an approach to sport that the vast majority of Canadians already believe in and practice. Although widely embraced, these principles often go unspoken. So when they are violated--when people’s attitudes and actions threaten healthy and respectful competition--supporters of good sport can be caught off guard, unsure how to stand up for the sport they believe in. The True Sport Principles for Sport are a rallying point. By joining the True Sport Movement, you make a powerful statement: you declare that your group stands with thousands of other athletes, coaches, parents, and community leaders in saying Yes to the principles that promote good sport and No to negative attitudes and actions such as bullying, cheating, and violence.
They are universal. These principles can be brought to life in any sport at any level--from playground to podium. An Olympic rowing squad can embrace these principles with the same sense of pride and purpose as an elementary school, an old-timers' league, or a community hockey arena.
They declare that ethics drive excellence. The True Sport Movement celebrates healthy, respectful competition. Hard work and the pursuit of excellence are vital to good sport. But when "winning" is tainted by cheating and bullying, competition loses its power to inspire us. Winning is only meaningful when competition is fair. Ethical behaviour makes competition possible, and competition motivates us to be our best.
They declare that good sport and strong communities go hand in hand. The Principles for Sport call on True Sport members to give back to their communities. As sport is only made possible through the spaces and places that communities provide, all six principles promote the best kind of sport—sport which leads to healthy, socially connected individuals and communities. Good sport and strong communities reinforce each other, which is why the Principles for Sport and the Principles for Communities go hand in hand.
