Andover Traveling Boys Basketball

Young men who participate in ATBB basketball learn more than just basketball skills. In practice and in games, they are exposed to situations that allow them to develop qualities such as leadership, discipline, physical fitness, mental toughness, and good sportsmanship that will last them a lifetime. Discipline is learned by working as part of a team and respecting the unique contributions of each member of that team.

Basketball is a game, which includes players, coaches, officials, and fans. Good sportsmanship means that persons in each of those four roles respect the separation of those roles. When players are allowed to play, coaches are allowed to coach, officials are allowed to officiate, and fans are allowed to enjoy the games. With each segment respecting the other’s role, basketball will become an enjoyable experience for all who are involved. Good sportsmanship is also defined as an attitude that acknowledges the rigors of competition, which permits the game to be decided by the skills and mental qualities listed above. In addition, it encompasses a willingness to acknowledge these qualities in both opponents and teammates. It also acknowledges that there are “winners” and “losers” in every game and that how you conduct yourself as a “loser” is just as important as how you conduct yourself as a “winner”.

In light of this policy, ATB promotes the following behavior:

• Respectful comments and behavior towards opponents, officials, and fans.
• Full coach and player involvement in post-game handshakes with only congratulatory comments spoken to the opponent.
• ATBB discourages the following behavior:
  • Play intended to physically opponent.
  • Disparaging fan, player or coach comments towards any official.
  • Bench comments or on-court behavior intended to disrupt the opposing team.
  • Non-constructive or disparaging comments made by a fan, parent, player or coach towards any player, opponent or teammate.