What is fair play? - DR PEPPER DALLAS CUP® XXXIV: March 24

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What is fair play?

How to keep “FAIR PLAY” alive!

Practical actions for Fair Play

Compiled by Stanley Lover, long time friend and “Dallas Cup Family” member.

"The full potential of talented players has yet to be liberated. When it is, soccer will really blossom with artistry and grace." (FIFA Magazine – “Soccer Rules are Brilliant”)

All soccer folk want the game to be played honestly and fairly so that the ideal of the above quotation can be realized. The principles of Fair Play, what is just and reasonable, can read like a philosophical essay, but the concept is easy to understand when we witness a fair play action. For example, Paolo Di Canio stopped an Everton v West Ham match, by handling the ball when in a good position to score, so that seriously injured goalkeeper Gerrard could receive prompt attention. 30,000 fans at the match and many thousands watching via TV applauded that gesture. Di Canio received an International FIFA Fair Play Award.

Practical actions

Although worldwide campaigns for “Fair Play” have publicized the concept for years, their effect is difficult to evaluate except to observe that in soccer there is much more still to be achieved. Sustained effort is needed to keep it alive. Many schemes rely on appeals to players and teams to play fair – respect the Laws of the Game – respect officials etc. but, as the appeals are general, their impact is diminished. Such appeals can be reinforced by suggesting specific practical actions to motivate all soccer people to contribute something, however small.

Key “Fair Play” Partners

In a pocket-size booklet, the “Fair Play” Guide identifies 10 key partners in the soccer family; Player-Coach-Captain-Referee-Fan-Organizer-Parent-Teacher-Doctor-Journalist

Devoting one page to each partner the guide offers sound advice on practical contributions to keep fair play alive in soccer. Some readers will identify with two or more roles; extending the range of individual contributions.

The Fair Play Guide has received the approval of FIFA and the International Committee for Fair Play. It has the potential to mobilize the whole soccer family to encourage and insist on fair play at all levels.

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