Goucher College is an educational community that strives to integrate personal, intellectual, and physical growth through participation in a number of disciplines.  The physical education, intercollegiate athletics and recreational sports programs are very much a part of these traditions.  These programs provide activities that are physically wholesome, mentally stimulating, and socially satisfying, while attempting to integrate athletics and recreation with the total educational experience. The Department cares about the health and welfare of each of the students involved in the program.  The College is committed to administering all of its programs in an equitable manner and cares deeply about the fair and equitable treatment of men and women.  The Department acknowledges that to promote the character development of its intercollegiate participants, and to enhance the integrity of higher education and promote civility in society, we have an obligation to ensure that all program participants adhere to the fundamental values of respect, fairness, civility, honesty and responsibility. This is accomplished through the establishment of departmental and team policies, ongoing educational efforts, and the clear articulation of our expectations of good sportsmanship and ethical conduct.

Sportsmanship

For Goucher’s  intercollegiate athletic program to promote the character development of its participants, to enhance the integrity of higher education, and to promote civility in society, student-athletes, coaches, and all others associated with our athletic programs and events should adhere to such fundamental values as respect, fairness, civility, honesty, and responsibility. These values should be manifest not only in athletics participation but also in the broad spectrum of activities affecting the athletics program, including spectator behavior. 

While we value quality competitive opportunities for student-athletes, compliance with the rules of fair play, and sportsmanship, are also essential. Since victory shall be the expected goal of every competitor, defeat is not a disgrace, and the prospect of defeat is never an excuse for unethical behavior or a lack of sportsmanship.  Adherence to these principles of fair play will maximize the benefits and enjoyment of intercollegiate competition for all participants, coaches, and spectators involved with Goucher’s programs.