Winning with humility and losing with grace are hallmarks of true sportsmanship. It’s about learning, growing, and valuing respect as much as results. These players remind us that how you carry yourself matters most. This weekend, a few teams stood out for showing just that: In the match between Youth Soccer International and Park Ridge Soccer Club - PRSC the referee commented, “ Coaches were both very calm and backed me up. Parents started to get riled up near the end of the 1st half but calmed down for the 2nd.” In the match between Midwest Elite Youth Soccer Club and RBFC the referee explained, “ Excellent game, field was good. Both coaches and teams were good. Great sportsmanship at the end of the game both teams.” In the match between Palatine Celtic Soccer Club and Hussars United the referee pointed out, “Really fun match. Coaches and players were energetic and engaged in a positive way!” In the match between Kaneland United SC vs. North Aurora FC the referee noted, “ Good game! Coaches were helpful and crowd was very supportive and respectful.” In the match between Youth Soccer International and Park Ridge Soccer Club - PRSC the referee noted, “Coaches were super respectful, overall a great game.” In the match between Plainfield United Soccer Club and Chicago Strikers the referee reported, “ Clean game, and good sportsmanship from both teams.” In the match between SkoMor Soccer Club and Paris Saint-Germain Academy Chicago the referee said, “ Kids and coaches showed true sportsmanship.” In the match between Chicago Edge Soccer Club and FC Mirage the referee stated, “Parents, fans and coaches all well behaved. I made error regarding substitution policy (did not allow opposing team to substitutes on the opposite team's goal kicks) but remained consistent throughout the game.” In the match between Chicago Rush and North Shore FC Soccer Club the referee noted, “ Both teams played well and good game. Little passionate parents on both side.” (fb)

Every YSSL game offers a chance to lead by example. Sportsmanship shows up in the small moments: the handshake after the match, the encouragement after a mistake, the cheer for a good play even if it’s not your own. These moments make soccer stronger. Let’s recognize the other half of YSSL teams who displayed that spirit this past weekend: In the match between Palatine Celtic Soccer Club and Ela Soccer Club the referee commented, “Both teams gave an excellent effort throughout the game. The coaches were very good and handled their players very well. The fans were in harmony with constant cheering on their teams. It was very good vibes which helped their teams and me as well.” In the match between Lindenhurst Area Soccer Club (LASC) and Round Lake Juniors the referee noted, “Fantastic game. Thank you Coach Kevin & Coach Jorge and Elizabeth for a fun Sunday afternoon soccer match. You and your teams were a pleasure to officiate. Each of your players demonstrated excellent sportsmanship throughout the match. The parents were also terrific. Thank you for fully supporting the officiating crew thru out the game. Great job LASC and Round Lake Juniors.” In the match between FC-1 Soccer Academy and Wilmette Wings Soccer Club the referee explained, “Both teams showed great sportsmanship.” In the match between Elite Soccer and Lindenhurst Area Soccer Club (LASC) the referee pointed out, “Absolutely no issues with refereeing this game; both coaches and all spectators were respectful and courteous with no points of contention. Field was well marked with corner flags present!” In the match between CLSF FORCE vs. Scouts Fc the referee noted, “The game went really well. Both coaches were kind and cooperative. No cards or incidents to report.” In the match between CLSF FORCE and Pegasus FC the referee reported, “Both teams displayed good sportsmanship. The Pegasus Coach was very complimentary of the referee.” In the match between Sting FC and Crestwood Soccer Club the referee said, “ Good sportsmanship from both teams and their coaches!” In the match between Chicago City Soccer Club and Chicago KICS Football Club the referee stated, “Very good sportsmanship by City, got up quick, played ball control, did not run up the score.” (fb)