Being a member of the Protea Esports Team requires the highest levels of sportsmanship.
While umpiring at Mind Sports South Africa's (MSSA) 4th Gauteng Online Championships I had the misfortune to see five players withdraw from the championships after taking a loss. It should be noted that MSSA does not look kindly on such poor behaviour and such action counts against the player during any and all team selection.
While in any competition, winning is always the ultimate goal. However, it is important to remember that losing is also a part of the game. Sometimes, despite our best efforts, we may find ourselves falling behind or facing tough opponents that seem unbeatable. In such situations, it can be tempting to give up and abandon the competition altogether. However, finishing a competition, even when you are losing, is crucial for several reasons.
Firstly, finishing a competition shows resilience and perseverance. It demonstrates that you are not someone who gives up easily and that you are willing to see things through to the end. This is an important quality to have not just in sports, but also in life. Challenges and setbacks are inevitable, but it is our ability to overcome them that sets us apart.
Secondly, finishing a competition allows you to learn from your mistakes. Losing is an opportunity to evaluate your performance, identify areas for improvement, and come up with a plan to do better next time. If you walk away from a competition without finishing it, you miss out on this opportunity to learn and grow.
Thirdly, finishing a competition sets a good example for others. Whether it is your teammates, children, or even strangers watching from the sidelines, seeing you continue to play and give it your best effort, even when things are not going well, can be inspiring. It shows them that it is possible to face adversity with dignity and grace.
Lastly, finishing a competition is a sign of respect for your opponents, organisers, and sponsors. By staying in the game until the end, you are acknowledging that your opponents are worthy adversaries and that you respect their skills and abilities. It is important to remember that winning is not the only measure of success. Playing with sportsmanship and respect for others is equally important.
While winning is always the desired outcome, losing is also a part of any competition. When faced with the prospect of losing, it is important to remember the benefits of finishing the competition. Not only does it show resilience and perseverance, but it also allows for learning and growth, sets a good example for others, and demonstrates respect for opponents. So, the next time you find yourself falling behind, stay in the game and give it your best effort until the very end.
- 2023 Calendar of Events
- Affiliation: Private Clubs
- Affiliation - School
- Events: 12th Online Inter-school Provincial Championships - 4 March 2023
- Event: 2023 Gauteng Online Championships to be held on 11 March 2023.
- GEF - The Road to Riyadh
- IESF: IESF has announced the slots for 15th World Championships to be held in Lasi, Romania.
- IESF: Titles entered
- IESF: National Team Trials - 25 March 2023
- Phygital Gaming: Kazan to host Phygital Games
- Results: 2023 Northern Cape Online Championships
- Results: 2023 Western Cape Online Championships held on 25 February 2023.
- Results: 12th Online Inter-school Provincial Championships - 4 March 2023
- Results: 2023 Gauteng Online Championships held on 11 March 2023.
- Selection: Calling all female esports athletes.
- Selection: Passports are required.
- Titles - esports: Premier Championships
- Titles - esports: Student Championships
- Umpire Course - 18 February 2023
