Team sport is a type of sporting competition that involves a group of individuals competing as members of a sports team, rather than on their own. The world of team sports is diverse, and includes everything from football to handball, soccer, basketball, swimming, rowing and dragon boat racing. Some team sports are not formally organized and have no opposing teams or points scoring; however, participants still compete in order to achieve a goal such as finishing an endurance event.
The benefits of participating in a team sport are numerous and can span many different areas of children’s lives. They can improve physical health by boosting energy levels, increase self esteem and social skills as well as encourage learning and build character.
Working together to overcome obstacles is an important life skill that many young people learn from team sport. This includes learning to work with others and to compromise, as well as how to deal with failure. Children must also be prepared for the reality that not everyone on the team will perform at their peak and must rely on those around them to get the job done.
The competitive environment that team sports provide is invaluable for developing critical thinking skills. Whether it’s analyzing which teammates are open for a pass, observing an opponent’s strengths and weaknesses or formulating tactics that will allow a team to win, kids will learn how to problem solve and think outside the box. This is an important life skill that they will need in school and in their chosen profession as adults.