A team sport involves teammates facilitating the movement of a ball or similar object in accordance with a set of rules, in order to score points. The game is usually played between opposing teams with the exception of some singles and doubles sports (e.g. tennis). According to the Janssen Sports Leadership Center, being on a team teaches athletes to work with others, be supportive of their peers and act in unselfish ways. It also teaches them to stay focused and motivated even during times of struggle.
The most obvious benefit of team sport is learning how to work with others to achieve a common goal. In addition to enhancing the social and emotional development of young children, the sport teaches team members how to support one another during difficult moments. It also teaches them how to celebrate their victories and help those around them to do the same.
In addition, team sport helps children develop positive communication skills. This may be evident through both verbal and non-verbal communication amongst players as well as coaches and spectators. From locker room discussions to the use of body language, the athletes are able to communicate their concerns, hopes, dreams and disappointments as well as celebrate their successes.
Lastly, being on a team sport can teach kids about the importance of staying healthy and physically active. Getting kids involved in team sports early on can teach them to enjoy physical activity as they get older and can ultimately prevent health issues later in life such as obesity, heart disease and diabetes.
As America continues to grapple with the racial and political divide, the example of team sports can be an inspiration for the larger society to learn how to come together with people from different backgrounds and work together to create shared goals and values. It is not uncommon for high school, collegiate and professional athletes from all over the country to play alongside teammates of various races.
While baseball is not a true team sport since you can win as an individual, it has been used as an example because of the incredible pitching and batting talent of players like Kershaw and Bonds. Other sports that are considered team sports include football, soccer, basketball, hockey and volleyball. While there are individual sports such as golf, tennis and shooting sports that are not considered team sports, they do require a lot of cooperation with other players. However, they are not as intense or competitive as those that are team sports.