TOWSON, Md. --- The Landmark Conference has placed a priority on excellent sportsmanship ever since the first conference contest took place during the fall of 2007.

Last season, the Landmark made sportsmanship and improving the game environment a focus at all nine member institutions. During the conference's annual end-of-year meeting this past May, the Athletic Directors from each of the nine member institutions reviewed the program and agreed to continue the conference's campaign to promote good sportsmanship and behavioral expectations at their contests and events.

Fair and respectful conduct toward all participants and supporters is a tenet of Division III, one that the Landmark and its members strive to achieve at all times. Conference members believe that outstanding sportsmanship and civility are important expectations for all participants to experience at each athletic event, particularly at contests between conference members.

As the 2015 season begin this week, and in anticipation of Landmark play kicking off at the end of September, the conference and its members will reiterate their sportsmanship values, which are consistent with the philosophy of NCAA Division III, at contests and via social media. Recently, each institution shared a letter with its fans regarding standards for behavior at games, a copy of which can be found here.

When attending Landmark contests, fans should keep the following principles in mind:

• Support the players, coaches, and officials; do not use personal comments or insults
• Please refrain from using profanity, vulgarity, racist or sexist comments during the game
• Be sure to treat fellow fans and event staff with respect
• Please do not consume or possess alcohol and tobacco products while at events
• Give players, coaches, and officials space to perform by staying clear of the competition area and team benches

Individuals that are unable to follow these guidelines, are disruptive or hostile to others, or appear to be intoxicated, will be removed from the site of competition, and may face additional discipline.

Fans and participants are expected to represent their teams, institutions and the conference with behavior above reproach, and to observe the principles of good sportsmanship – civility, respect, honesty, dignity, courtesy, fairness, and integrity.