Team sport is a sporting activity that is governed by the rules and regulations of a league or other authority. These rules set the standard for inputs, throughput processes and outputs of a group in a particular sport, and provide extensive external control over internal group dynamics. For example, a league may stipulate the number of players on a team in a specific sport and the position they play. This creates a competitive environment where individuals compete with each other for starting status and playing time, and cooperate in coordination activities that lead to performance success.
A large number of sports have been defined as team sports, including baseball, soccer, basketball and swimming. Some of these sports require a high level of coordination, while others are more focused on physical strength. Swimming relay races, for instance, are a combination of individual performances within a group context where support and smooth transitions are crucial.
Research has shown that people who participate in team sports are healthier and have higher life satisfaction levels than those who do not. This is partially due to the fact that regular exercise builds endurance, and increases cardiac and bone strength. However, it is also possible that the social interaction and sense of belonging that results from participating in team sports plays a role. Regardless, team sports offer a multitude of pedagogical benefits, particularly for kids, and help children build a range of skills, from social development to self confidence, as well as promote positive mental health.