Team sport is a type of game or sport that involves teammates working together in accordance with a set of rules in order to facilitate the movement of a ball or similar object for the purpose of scoring points. It is not to be confused with group sports such as synchronized swimming or doubles tennis which involve two athletes collaborating in a coordinated manner but do not count as a team sport.

Historically, team sports have been a major part of the social fabric of many cultures around the world. The ancient Greeks practiced the Olympic Games, for example, which is considered one of the first team sports. The Romans, Chinese and Japanese developed martial arts as a way of building community through competition.

Team sports also teach kids how to work with others, a skill that can carry over into life outside of the sport. In addition to learning how to work as a part of a group, team sports help children learn to be patient under pressure. This can be a valuable lesson when it comes to studying for a big exam or presenting in the workplace.

Athletes who play individual sports have a more difficult time dealing with losing because they don’t have the support and accountability that comes with being on a team. Similarly, winning can feel less significant when it isn’t supported by the support of teammates. Team sports teach athletes how to be supportive and patient with their teammates, which can help them develop a healthy relationship with winning and losing.