2025, Vol. 12, Issue 5, Part E

This study uses a narrative review method to understand sportsmanship through ethical and performance-based lenses. Philosophically, sportsmanship is examined through the lens of normative and virtue ethics, utilizing established constructs such as fair play, respect, and integrity. On the performance dimension, a review of existing literature integrates findings from quantitative, correlational, and meta-analytic studies investigating psychological traits - namely mental toughness, emotional intelligence, and prosocial behaviour, as mediators of sportsmanship and athletic performance. Findings demonstrate that sportsmanship, rooted in ethical conduct and character development, is closely aligned with enhanced group cohesion, individual resilience, and superior competitive outcomes. This integrative study provides a nuanced understanding of sportsmanship as both a moral imperative and a driver of performance.