7.2 THE VALUES OF SPORTS 125 Sometimes, great rivalries between athletes in sport develop into strong friendships. Can you think of any athletes who were great rivals and became good friends? To make fair play more effective, the International Fair Play Committee annually awards prizes to sportspeople who have distinguished themselves in it. commitment: impegno to outscore: segnare pi punti di A champion is someone who respects the rules, rejects doping and competes in the spirit of fair play. Jacques Rogge FAIR PLAY AND SPORTSMANSHIP The value of sport goes beyond the simple athletic or competitive performances, as its practice can help people acquire skills that are fundamental in everyday life, too, such as working in a group, learning to set goals, respecting rules, and accepting failures. How sport builds life skills First of all, the practice of sport teaches athletes the importance of dedication and discipline through the long training sessions, the commitment to personal improvement, and the resilience to defeat or injury. Secondly, sport develops the habit of teamwork and cooperation. This is certainly true of team sports; however, also in individual sports, athletes have to cooperate with their team of coaches, trainers, and therapists. A collaborative spirit helps build empathy, respect for different roles and skills, and the understanding that goals are often best achieved through unity. Fair play Sport is an excellent way for developing respect for opponents, officials, coaches and for the rules of the game itself, which is known as fair play. Fair play is not only the absence of cheating, but it is the attitude of athletes who show honesty and integrity during competitions, accepting both victory and defeat and giving their best while ensuring that the competition is fair for all participants. 232 HISTORY, PHILOSOPHY, AND CIVIC EDUCATION Fair play: embodies the idea that the spirit of the game is as important as the result; promotes the idea that rivalry does not exclude respect for the opponent ; refuses the use of doping or drugs to reach better results; recognises that true victory is not just outscoring an opponent but also being able to demonstrate ethical conduct and treating opponents with dignity . The promotion and defence of fair play is ensured by the International Fair Play Committee (IFPC), founded in 1963 by UNESCO, and a number of sports governing bodies around the world. The IFPC is responsible for ensuring that fair play is respected and promoted by athletes, coaches, and trainers, especially among children and teenagers. Sportsmanship Sportsmanship can be defined as the behaviour of athletes who not only follow the rules of their sport but are also able to understand and use sports etiquette. Sportsmanship includes fair play towards opponents, staying calm and controlled even in challenging situations, promoting a fun and inclusive atmosphere for everyone involved in the sport, and encouraging and supporting teammates.