At high school basketball games in Grove City, Ohio, the coaches have set an example of calm, positive sportsmanship to their players. Their cue? All coaches wear a pair of sneakers and casual dress to games, not out of disrespect, but "as a reminder to stay relaxed and patient on the sideline with the players, fans and officials. There's no cussing by anyone. There's no screaming. We think that relaxes our kids and just lets them play," said Coach Greg Waits.

Their concept has created success, and they are having an excellent season (Mark Znidar, "With Grove City, It's Not Just the Shoes," The Columbus Dispatch, Dec. 22, 2006). Sports provide an outlet for positive competition but can easily spiral out of control if attitudes are not kept in check.