WOODBURY – Social media and sports is a complicated mix, especially at Nonnewaug High School. While social media can be a great tool for promoting games, sharing highlights, and building team spirit, it can also spark problems such as messy rivalries or posts that can get out of hand. That’s why coaches and captains are working to set clear rules for NHS fall sports, making sure athletes are being responsible and avoiding the downsides of social media.
Student-athletes having rules for social media can help guide responsible online behavior. Many teams distribute packets of information that provide guidance on how to navigate social media effectively and responsibly.
“We make sure to talk to the guys, make sure they’re representing themselves, our school and team in an appropriate manner,” Nonnewaug science teacher and assistant boys soccer coach Joshua Kornblut said. “The main rule is to just make sure you’re responsible and reasonable with your social media, and not engaging with other teams.”
Coaches stress that every athlete should be using social media wisely.
“Social media can be great, but like all things it must be used correctly,” Kornblut said.
Returning girls soccer player, Eliza Butkus understands the importance of using social media appropriately.
“It’s been made clear multiple times, if anyone finds out that you’ve been using social media inappropriately [say to opposing teams or teammates] it will end in a suspension or even worse getting permanently kicked off the team,” Butkus said.
“Its important to focus your time and effort on the game rather than spending it on social media and on your phone,” Butkus said. “There are so many things you can work on outside of practice, it also may keep you out of trouble.”
Taking time away from your phone can be a good idea, putting your phone away or spending less time could end up helping you in the long run.
Declan Stankevich , a freshman on the boys soccer team, thinks that athletes should be acting responsibly and appropriately on social media.
“The school rules are fair and reasonable, I don’t think they are hard to follow,” Stankevich said. “Be appropriate and smart with your choices and you’ll be fine.”
Nonnewaug Field hockey coach Janet Crocker thinks they are not asking a lot from the athletes and following the rules on social media should be easy to follow.
“I believe it is important that student-athletes be held to a high standard regarding what is posted on social media, but at the same time it’s a simple ask,” Crocker said. “Make sure when you put on that uniform you are respectful.”
“It essentially boils down to being a responsible and reasonable person,” Kornblut said. “If you have to question if a post is “okay” then it probably isn’t.”
Having these standards and rules made by the effort of Nonnewaug coaches can make spots easier and more enjoyable for athletes. Rules being set and athletes being obedient allows flexibility and a good time for our athletes.
“Student-athletes must be thoughtful about what they post before or after any match,” Crocker said. “A playful or “fun” post that comes across as disrespectful can be shared with an opposing team in seconds and potentially creates unnecessary conflict. I encourage my players to keep their posts positive and professional — to keep it classy: and GO CHIEFS.”
