Team sport involves competing as part of a group, a collective effort where everyone works together to achieve a common goal. Examples of team sports include basketball, soccer, football, baseball and track and field events (which often feature teams running relays). The main benefit of participating in a team sport is learning to work well with teammates. This is an important life skill that will be useful in almost all areas of work and social activity, including family, friendships and the workplace.
Another advantage is the development of good sporting behavior and the ability to put winning and losing in perspective. Being a member of a team also helps to develop good communication skills, both verbal and non – verbal, which is crucial in all types of work, especially when working as part of a team.
A team building exercise that focuses on communication and cohesion is the human knot, where players have to connect hands with one another around a circle without letting go of each other. This is a great way to get teams talking and interacting and can be particularly rewarding for more quieter members of the team.
Another fun, off-field team building exercise is to take the whole team out for a meal at a local restaurant or to a sports event. This will allow players to build connections with each other outside the context of training and matches, which can really strengthen their bond.