Whether your children are playing hockey, football, basketball, soccer, or any other team sport, they’re learning life skills that will serve them well as adults. One of the most important lessons is learning to work with a diverse group of people to reach a common goal. The different pairings of personalities and scenarios will help them to become adaptable, persistent, and patient — characteristics that are necessary for success in any endeavor.
Another valuable lesson is being able to make decisions and act in an unselfish way to benefit the whole team. This type of discipline will carry over into their school and career lives. Lastly, team sports teach kids how to manage time effectively. With practice twice a week and games on the weekend, they must learn to juggle their responsibilities and prioritize their goals. They’ll also have fewer idle hours to spend playing video games or sitting on the couch.
In a world that is increasingly competitive, team athletes will be better prepared to compete academically and professionally. They’ll be able to handle pressure, set high standards for themselves, and be competitive without sacrificing their integrity or the welfare of others.
Many parents ask, “Does my child need to play team sport?” Team sport isn’t just about getting your children some exercise and making new friends. It’s about teaching them to be successful in all areas of their lives. It’s about fostering the five C’s: competence, confidence, connections, character, and caring.