Team play: on the field and in life

It’s undeniable that sport brings many benefits, both physical and psychological: you’re healthier, you have more energy, you’re in better spirits and your sleep is more restful. However, playing a team sport brings many more benefits, for young and old alike. Increased self-esteem, a sense of competence, better communication and the ability to work with colleagues towards a common goal are just some of the benefits. Let’s take a closer look.

Let’s face it, team sport is an excellent exercise in communication. Indeed, for the relationship between team members to be harmonious, and for everyone to be able to work well together to achieve the objectives set by the coach or manager, it’s vital that everyone understands each other 100%.

Everything depends on communication, whether it’s sports team management or game strategies. Knowing how to express yourself clearly so that everyone can follow instructions properly, notifying others of delays or absences, and drawing up a game plan are all advantages linked to team sports that can have a positive influence on communication. As an employee, parent, coach, player, athlete or student, it’s vital to be able to communicate effectively, and team sport is a great way to learn how.

Winning a championship, reaching the final, qualifying for a competition… anyone who practices a sport seriously will tell you: goals are of paramount importance in maintaining motivation.

A sports team is a unit made up of several people who must work together to achieve a common goal. Players must therefore put the team before the individual, and develop strategies that capitalize on the specific skills of their team-mates. There’s no point in having selfish personal goals and wanting to shine individually: in fact, a winning team succeeds because all the players put in the effort, because they all work hard to achieve a goal in a spirit of teamwork. It’s the same at school and in business! A successful company owes its success to the entire staff, not just the manager.

Team sport not only helps you work better, it’s also a great way to spend quality time with like-minded people. When time is scarce, social life takes a hit. Whether you’re a student nearing the end of a semester or a fervent professional who doesn’t count the hours, there comes a time when you absolutely must take a little break, get out of your cocoon and reach out to others. For some, this may mean neglecting physical activity; for others, it may mean neglecting friends. Why should we have to choose? Getting together for a game or a workout is not only a great way to let off steam and burn off energy, it’s also a great way to get your fill of social interaction!