A team sport is a type of athletic activity where the fundamental nature of the game or sport necessitates the participation of multiple individuals working together as a team, and it is inherently impossible or highly impractical to execute the sport as a single-player endeavor. Examples include basketball, soccer, rugby, football, baseball and softball, and many track and field events including relay races.
Kids involved in team sports learn to rely on and trust those around them, as well as to work as a group toward a common goal. The pace of a game often requires quick problem solving, and athletes are encouraged to think on their feet and seek out different perspectives in order to make the best decisions possible. This is a great way to develop critical thinking skills that will carry into the classroom and future workplace.
It also teaches kids that success often comes from hard work, dedication, and putting in the extra effort. In addition, the discipline required in team sports is a good way to teach children that there are no shortcuts and that it is usually more rewarding to stay the course than to give up at the first sign of trouble.
Participation in team sports can also help young people build a sense of self-esteem that is balanced by a greater sense of belonging and value to a community. In fact, studies often show that student-athletes have higher GPAs and graduation rates than non-athletes.