The term Team sport describes any type of competitive sporting activity that is played by a group of people organized into opposing teams. These sports include soccer, football, basketball, hockey and baseball as well as many of the track and field events in which athletes run in groups or relays.
In a team sport, each player has a role to play and the goal is to win as a unit. This teaches young people how to cooperate with others and understand that their actions have a direct impact on the team’s performance. This type of cooperation is a fundamental human skill that can help them in their personal and professional lives.
Working together with a diverse mix of teammates also teaches young people how to respect one another and work through disagreements in an efficient way. As Jill Prudden, coach of a girls’ basketball team explains, it’s important for players to know that there are different ways of accomplishing the same task, and that they should be willing to learn from their peers.
Being part of a close-knit team also boosts a person’s motivation and self-esteem. This is especially true for introverted children who can often become leaders on the court or field and gain confidence from their success with their teammates. In addition, a tight-knit team can also provide support and encouragement when a person is struggling or feeling discouraged. This type of positive reinforcement is crucial for building self-esteem.
