A team sport is an athletic competition where individuals are organized into opposing teams and compete to win by working together towards a shared objective. Examples include baseball, soccer and basketball. The sport of track and field is also a team sport, with individuals competing in relay races.
Unlike other types of groups, the members of a sports team recognize and commit to norms of effort and performance. They expect each other to attend every practice session and follow the coach’s instructions without fail. They also understand that they will be held accountable for their performance in competitions by the members of the other teams and the spectators.
The most obvious benefit of team sport is that it promotes physical fitness and leads to a healthy lifestyle. In addition, playing a team sport can teach children life-long lessons. Whether they learn the value of teamwork, the importance of communication or how to work hard toward a goal, these are all lessons that can be applied to their academic endeavors later on in life.
There are many other benefits of team sports that are less obvious but still significant. Working with teammates teaches children how to communicate effectively and listen to their coaches and fellow players. In addition, they learn how to be more patient and understanding when their teammates struggle or make mistakes. Lastly, team sports foster the development of natural community early on in a child’s life with teammates, coaches, and friends that can last a lifetime.
