Team sport is a type of game or sport that involves two or more players working together as part of a sports team. Most team sports involve a group of people playing at the same time, but some also feature individuals performing at different times. Regardless of whether it’s soccer, basketball or baseball, participating in a team sport can teach kids many important life lessons. From learning how to work with other members of a team to dealing with setbacks and disappointment, playing a team sport can help children develop skills that can carry over into all aspects of their lives.

One of the most valuable lessons that a child can learn from playing a team sport is how to effectively communicate with teammates and coaches. From coaching drills and chats at practices to calling out that a player is open for a pass or a stick tap signaling a penalty, playing a team sport teaches kids how to communicate and ensure that their thoughts are heard by others. These communication skills are critical to the success of any group and can be applied to all areas of a person’s life.

Kim Batten, who competed at a high level in the 400m hurdles and later coached track at the elite level, has stated that, “The team concept is great for youth and high school athletes, but I think it does harm at the college and the elite level.” Batten’s view is that the team aspect of track – particularly the relays – takes away from the excitement of individual competition, and it limits an athlete’s ability to push themselves past their limitations.