Why Respect in Competition Matters
For years, my team and I have gone up against a top-ranked team that consistently outplayed us. We worked hard, improved, and took every loss as a lesson. When other teams won, we acknowledged their skill and respected their performance. So, when we finally outplayed a team after four years of losses against them, I had hoped for the same respect in return. Instead, there were excuses, injuries, missed practices, luck, everything but the simple truth: we played better.
It was hard not to let myself feel frustrated because of how much effort my team and I have put into self-improvement, not just individually but as a team. We've built a competitive training environment that pushes us past our limits, fosters creativity, and strengthens our team culture. We regularly play against an older team within our club to track our growth. Each player actively seeks feedback from
the coach to turn weaknesses into strengths. Competing against higher-ranked teams is crucial for both team and individual development. It's what makes playing and watching sports exciting, the challenge, the drive, and the opportunity to grow. That's why it's disappointing when opponents refuse to acknowledge when they've been outplayed.
Look at the world of professional sports. Underdogs win all the time, not out of luck, but out of wanting it more, working harder, and having the grit to go and get it. Women's sports especially have begun gaining the attention and respect it deserves. With this momentum, we should be lifting each other, not tearing each other down. I remind myself of this often because, in the world of soccer, today's opponent could be tomorrow's teammate. At 17, as I transition to collegiate soccer soon and play in leagues like the WPSL and USLW, I see how much respect and sportsmanship matter at every level.
To be clear, not everyone on the opposing team disregarded our win. A few players acknowledged our performance, and that meant a lot. But we need more of that. Women in sports and every field, can all have the spotlight. We can all break barriers. And we do that by celebrating each other's successes, not making excuses for them.
How Can We Build a Culture of Respect?
Acknowledge Good Play, Win or Lose. A simple "well played" "great competition," or a nod of respect goes such a long way. Just as we expect recognition when we win, we should give it when others do.
Compete with Heart, Not Ego. Playing with heart is great but there's never a good reason to sacrifice good gamesmanship or sportsmanship for the sake of pride. Respecting an opponent's effort doesn't take away from your own.
Lead by Example. The best teams and players uplift others, even after a tough loss. Whether it's on the field, in post-game handshakes, or on social media, positivity matters. Another big one I remind myself of is " Be kind to others, as you never know what they're going through." I lost a teammate and friend to suicide and am quite hyper-focused on reminding myself to treat everyone with compassion and understanding, as we may not be aware of their struggles, and never underestimate the power of an encouraging word.
Understand That Every Game is a Lesson. Having a growth mindset versus winning at all costs. Losing does not equal failure, and winning does not equal perfection. Every game is a chance to be better, and this outlook creates better athletes and better people. Ultimately, sports are about growth, competition, and mutual respect. Let's support one another, recognize hard work, and ultimately, respect success, whether that is our success or the success of other competitors.