Principles for Sport

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. 

GO FOR IT
Always strive for excellence and rise to the challenge, but never at the expense of others.
Discover how good you can be.

PLAY FAIR
Play honestly and obey the rules, in letter and spirit.
Winning is only meaningful when competition is fair.

RESPECT OTHERS
Show respect for everyone involved in creating a sporting experience, both on the field and off.
Win with dignity and lose with grace.

KEEP IT FUN
Find the joy of sport and have a good time.
Keep a positive attitude and look to make a positive difference, on the field and in your community.

STAY HEALTHY
Place physical and mental health above all other considerations and avoid unsafe activities.
Respect your body and keep in shape.

INCLUDE EVERYONE
Share sport with others, regardless of creed, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation or ability.
Invite everyone into sport to make it more meaningful for the whole community.

GIVE BACK
Always remember the community that supports your sport and helps make it possible.
Find ways to show your appreciation and help others get the most out of sport.