Sport is most commonly defined as an organized physical activity which involves a certain level of competition, like netball or volleyball. Some sports are called sports; others are part of a competition to win awards or money. An individual who plays a certain sport professionally is known as a sportsperson. Many individuals play sports even with their own children. In America alone, there are more than 12 million registered sports enthusiasts. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has the largest number of registered sports enthusiasts in the world.
Many schools and colleges offer athletic programs, in which students participate in physically demanding sports and learn valuable skills that they can use in other areas. The most common sports taken up by college students are basketball, football, volleyball, tennis and track and field. Football, lacrosse and swimming are also part of high school athletic activities. Students may choose a particular sport from a pool of options. College sports can help build confidence, skill and sportsmanship in students.
Playing sports is one of the best ways to manage stress, improve concentration and improve motor skills. It has been found that sports players who engage in physical activity regularly have better brain functioning than those who do not. Sports also help build self-esteem, since it is often difficult to rise in the ranks of a professional sports team or earn a professional basketball or volleyball career without it. Individuals who play sports in their later years sometimes pursue a professional career, like professional tennis or football player, or become an Olympic or World Championship gold medalist. Sports help build social interaction skills and group activity.
Most sports teach basic physical activities like kicking, throwing and catching. But sports also include mental aspects, such as strategy and discipline. Sports teach athletes how to focus on their performance and avoid distractions. In games like soccer and volleyball, the scorekeeper keeps track of the ball’s movement along with each touch by the players and the opponents. In ice hockey, the goalkeepers keep the ball in play between shots, and the defensive players try to prevent goals by making sure the puck does not cross the center line or into the net.
To be effective, sports must be performed under professional supervision. A sport’s rules and regulations need to be followed. Professional sports coaches can provide advice about what kinds of equipment are best for each sport. Learning proper technique and attitude for each sport can help children learn the basics of the games. Sporting events, like track and field, baseball, softball and cheerleading, can help develop physical skills, teamwork and attitude. Participation in sports helps children understand their bodies and how they work.
Some sports require specialized equipment, like running shoes. In outdoor events, athletes need to wear protective gear, such as helmets. For indoor sports, fans and spectators can buy sports attire to wear. Some professional sports teams sponsor various sports competitions and events. For example, the NBA has sponsors for several popular teams, which provide equipment and uniforms.