HOW the definition of a sportsman has changed over the years.
I was thrilled to get my hands on a book of instructions from the Olympic memorabilia of Leigh gymnast Hilda Williams (nee Smith) who took part in the 1928 Games in Amsterdam.
The eight part definition states:
A sportsman: plays the game for the game's sake; plays for his side and not for himself; is a good winner and a good loser (modest in victory and generous in defeat); accepts all decisions in a proper spirit; is chivalrous towards a defeated opponent; is unselfish and always ready to help others to become proficient; as a spectator applauds good play on both sides; never interferes with referees or judges no matter what the decision.
It's about time today's overpaid pros who make a cosy living from sport took note of these guidelines.
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