This week I have experienced a number of different things that I would not of seen overseas in any way, shape or form. I thought it would be best to write about these things as we can all learn from it.

Firstly, I visited a tournament in Orange Farm where quite a few people were watching. I immediately admired the spirit of the spectators as they watched and cheered with passion. On a darker note, I witnessed something of bad sportsmanship which I wasn't impressed with. This was: when one team scored in the tournament, the other team refused to play on and the kept the ball. This was disappointing but I feel it can be used as a lesson to other members on here. I believe if your team concedes a goal, that should make you more motivated to score one against them, it shouldn't make your heads drop as this will cause more problems for the team.

I was shocked at this because I had never seen this kind of thing in the UK before and I think this is something that, in terms of life skills, can be improved on this side. At the sites I have been lucky enough to visit so far, a few of you have asked how you can deal with fighting between players in the team and fighting with other teams so here is the answer:

1) fighting with your teammates is not going to solve anything. It is pointless and unhelpful as the morale of the whole team is going to drop. It is much more efficient if you discussed a problem rather than fighting to solve it. What can we do next time? What improvements can you make as an individual so that your teammates don't get angry with you? Consider these things.

2) fighting with teammates again is not going to solve an issue. If we win, we win with grace and if we lose, we respect the other teams triumph. Remember, soccer is a sport that we play for fun, yes it is nice to win, but having fun playing in a team with your friends is the most common reason of participation.

I think it's important that when we play or coach soccer, we have to always remember to consider WHY we are playing. If you're playing for fun, then keep it that way, embrace your triumphs and respect others. If you're playing to change your life, then I promise you, having the correct life skills in terms of sportsmanship, teamwork, unity and behaviour are much more important than your technical ability.

Remember we can all learn from each other no matter how good we are,

The English One,

Jonny

Email: j_lee114@hotmail.co.uk