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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (11/20/23)

"Promoting Education Based Athletics in Indiana"

Trash talking in athletic events has been going on for ages. That doesn't make it right. Have you received it?  Dished it out? It may still be common these days, but more and more schools are taking a stance against it in the name of sportsmanship.

When I competed, we kept quiet and let my performance do the talking for me.  From time to time, I would hear others say they could stop me, beat me, outwork me.  That's normal back and forth between athletes.

But the trash talking being banned goes a step further, including talk that disparages another's race, ethnicity, religion, disability or sexual orientation.   There is no place for it in high school sports.  Athletes are being penalized for their words on the field/court of play (directed at other athletes and officials) and should be. 

Keep your emotions in check and let your play do the talking!

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