A team sport is an organized game that requires the cooperation of multiple players on opposing teams. These games include soccer, football, hockey, basketball, baseball, volleyball and tennis. Team sports are great for exercising the entire body and they also build endurance. Teamwork is a key aspect of most team sports and working together to achieve a common goal will help your athlete develop a variety of important life skills. According to the Janssen Sports Leadership Center, working with teammates on a regular basis teaches athletes to be adaptable, persistent and patient.
Physical Health
The most obvious benefit of participating in a team sport is its effect on physical health. Most team sports require a lot of energy and exercise the entire body, but especially the legs and core. These sports also help to improve coordination, balance and agility. In addition, most team sports encourage good nutrition and promote healthy habits such as abstaining from smoking and alcohol.
Social Development
In addition to building friendships, team sports also foster good sportsmanship. This includes learning how to deal with defeat and being a “sore loser” in a supportive environment. This is an important skill that can be applied to the workplace and in personal relationships. In addition, team members learn how to support and motivate their teammates, even in the face of failure. Team members also develop a sense of community and loyalty that can be transferred to the workplace, school and other social groups.
