Ejections Are Rising. It’s Time to Make Sportsmanship Education a Priority.

Why every high school athlete should receive sportsmanship training before stepping onto the field.

High school sports should be about competition, character, teamwork, and personal growth. But increasingly, unsportsmanlike conduct is making headlines.

From confrontations on the field to disrespect toward officials and opponents, troubling behavior is raising questions about the culture of youth athletics.

A recent article in The Florida Times-Union highlights a rise in ejections in Florida high school football, reinforcing the need to address sportsmanship before problems escalate.

Sportsmanship shouldn’t be optional

At AGE3, we believe every state should require high school athletes to complete sportsmanship training and earn certification before participating in organized school athletics.

We require academic eligibility, physical preparation, and compliance with athletic rules. Why shouldn’t we place the same importance on character and conduct?

Sportsmanship is about managing emotions, respecting opponents, accepting accountability, and competing with integrity. These are life skills that extend well beyond the scoreboard.

And the responsibility doesn’t stop with athletes. Coaches, parents, and spectators play a critical role in shaping the culture of youth sports.

AGE3 is helping change the game

Through the Almon Gunter Experience (AGE3), we’re committed to developing stronger athletes, better leaders, and healthier sports cultures.

Almon Gunter, a former Nike-sponsored, world-class sprinter and two-time U.S. Olympic Trials qualifier, has spent more than 25 years inspiring individuals and organizations to perform with discipline, character, and purpose.

Today, as a motivational speaker, author, podcaster, and leadership development expert, Almon brings those lessons directly to athletes, teams, and schools.

AGE3 offers two flexible approaches to sportsmanship education:

• Self-paced sportsmanship classes: Convenient training athletes can complete on their own schedule.
• Instructor-led sportsmanship programs: Engaging training delivered directly to athletes and teams by Almon Gunter.

Our programs emphasize respect, accountability, emotional control, teamwork, and leadership.

The goal goes beyond reducing ejections. It’s about developing young people who make better decisions in competition and in life.

Let’s make sportsmanship the standard

Ejections should be a wake-up call for schools, athletic associations, coaches, and parents nationwide.

Imagine if every high school athlete entered the season with a shared understanding of sportsmanship and the responsibility that comes with representing a team.

AGE3 is ready to help make that standard a reality.