How to Write a Winning Essay for the Arty Erle Sportsmanship Award

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, experiences, and influences that have shaped your understanding of sportsmanship. Consider moments that stand out.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments related to sportsmanship. This could include leadership roles, awards, or community initiatives where you demonstrated integrity and respect.
• The Gap: Acknowledge areas where you seek growth. Explain why further education is essential for you to enhance your understanding and practice of sportsmanship.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values, character, and unique perspective on sportsmanship.

Outline Your Essay

Creating a structured outline is crucial. Start with an engaging introduction that presents a specific moment or experience related to sportsmanship. Follow this with body paragraphs that explore each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on a single idea. Conclude with a strong reflection on how these experiences will inform your future and your commitment to sportsmanship.

Drafting Voice and Style

Use an active voice to convey your experiences clearly and dynamically. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, provide concrete examples and reflections. Each paragraph should transition smoothly, guiding the reader through your thought process and experiences.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and assess your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that your reflections are clear and that you articulate why your experiences matter. Revise for clarity, coherence, and engagement, focusing on how your journey has prepared you to contribute positively to your community.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not include unsubstantiated claims about your passion or achievements.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your active role in experiences.
• Ensure that every detail you provide is honest and relevant to the scholarship prompt.