From an early age, the youth of Holt Lacrosse have been introduced to sportsmanship and fair play. These rules of etiquette govern how to relate with others both on and off the field. From high school games to travel commitments, parents, coaches and referees all seek to instill good sportsmanship within the young athletes. However, some find what they believe to be a deeper commitment than these basic rules and apply them to what is known as the handshake agreement. A handshake agreement is a verbal deal that is entered into by two or more parties. In this arrangement, each agreeing party commits to confide in one another and act on a promise that is implied through words, certain actions or assumptions. The validity of the agreement relies upon the honor and integrity of each party and unwritten rules that govern the relationship. Handshakes are often used before agreements can be put to writing or as a courtesy to ensure that parties understand their arrangement. Generally, especially in youth sports like lacrosse, these agreements are not legally binding.

Issues can arise when a handshake agreement is not honored, as sometimes occurs in professional sports. Recall the televised handshake between former NBA players Kevin Durant and LeBron James (2017) where Mr. Durant did not pass the ball to Mr. James, despite a prior agreement between them. The handshake is a way to reveal that even though a deal is not written on paper, it is still an official arrangement that expects professional behavior. Handshakes can also be used in competitive situations. For example, as is often seen in football or basketball, players will shake hands with the other team before gameplay, despite previously agreeing to win. A handshake ensures that even competing parties address each other respectfully.

Even with rules that govern these agreements, there are often juristic pitfalls. Juristic pitfalls refer to situations where a party who does not wish to be bound in a legal arrangement have an understanding that their words or actions can still be used against them. So, how can players, coaches or referees be sure that the promises made due to sportsmanship will not be used against them? The promoted article provides examples of scenarios where handshakes were used in negotiations of professional athletics. There is a legal analysis used to demonstrate that in certain jurisdictions, handshakes can be controlling, as even though they are not put into writing, an agreement can still be enforceable.

What distinguishes an agreement based on sportsmanship from one that is not, is understanding and interpretation. Prominently, understanding and interpretation of these agreements are done through handshake. The main difference between the handshake agreement and what may be known as a traditional agreement, is the binding of the parties, based on trust and personal behavior. In highlighting that Lacrosse understands the need for teammates and players to maintain a positive sportsmanship culture, we also expect our athletes to maintain their promises. If a player appears to willingly accept terms and conditions based on an agreement, that player must be mindful that his or her actions are binding. Our lacrosse players and families understand and appreciate the significance of a handshake agreement. That is because trust and integrity is key to developing the strong bonds that we have fostered in Holt Lacrosse.

For more information on the legal aspects of handshake agreements, you can visit Wikipedia’s article on contracts.

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