Team sport is a term that encompasses a wide range of activities in which participants are part of a group that works towards a common goal. It is commonly associated with sports such as football, soccer, hockey and basketball but is also applied to other types of activities like lacrosse, rowing, rugby union and ultimate (a flying disc game).
Communication
Although it might not be as obvious as a classroom, communication takes place in most forms of team sports from locker room discussion, nonverbal cues from fellow players and strategy discussions. Team athletes are expected to express their concerns, hopes and disappointments to coaches and teammates and seek feedback on their performances.
Social interactions
Youth who participate in team sports have a higher likelihood of developing positive social relationships with other children, parents and adults. This is because they are constantly exposed to a slate of other people and are likely to encounter mentors, coaches and other role models along the way.
Leadership and responsibility
Team sports practice teaches important life skills such as commitment, training, setting and achieving goals, taking responsibility for your own mistakes and not dwelling on losses but learning from them. These skills can be applied to other areas of your child’s life.
Losses
In team sports, each person is responsible for a specific role on the field or court, whether it’s a goalie, an attackman, a midfielder or a defenseman. Each player has a different personality and skill set so working together to achieve the same goal is crucial.