A team sport is a game or sport that requires the participation of multiple individuals working as a unit, and where it would be impossible or highly impractical to execute the sport as a single-player endeavour. This includes sports such as basketball, rugby and cricket, where individual performance isn’t necessarily critical to the outcome of the match but team dynamics are key.

Team sports allow children to build genuine connections with their peers and spend time away from digital devices, which can have a positive impact on their emotional wellbeing. They also instil a sense of belonging and self-identity. Studies have shown that kids who participate in team sports are happier and healthier than those who don’t.

The nature of team sports demands that players respect one another, especially when they disagree on how to play the game. This is an important life skill to develop, as we all need to work with people we don’t always get along with and put our own opinions aside for the good of the group.

Participating in a team sport also improves coordination and communication skills, both of which are important for academic success. It also teaches children the importance of working together in a shared goal, and how to deal with setbacks and failure. As they learn to celebrate wins and support their teammates during losses, this can boost self-confidence and help them to be more resilient in life.