Team sports have a lot going for them

When you hear that loud whistle blow for the first time does your heart race?

When you get that intercept you've been waiting for the whole game can you not help but smile?

When you score that winning goal how do you feel?

You could answer all of these questions if you were involved in a team sport and, if not, I challenge you to get out there and give it a go.

Playing a team sport keeps you healthy. People who play a team sport are less likely to smoke or take drugs because of the effect those activities have on their bodies and athletic performance.

Research has shown that children who are involved in a team sport are more likely to have a positive body image and higher self-esteem. It also lessens stress so there is a lower chance of suffering depression.

Playing a sport teaches how to deal with the disappointment of losing, provides discipline, helps develop leadership skills and helps academically, among other things.

When I come off the court after a tough game of netball, lots of thoughts run through my mind. Did we have a chance of winning? How close really was it? Did I do my part for the team?

To hear our team name being called out as winners is a great feeling.

The satisfaction of winning keeps people enjoying the sport and wanting to continue playing. Playing a team sport improves many different skill areas including hand-eye co-ordination and social interaction, and increases fitness and mental alertness.

Playing a team sport can lead to once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Imagine being in the Silver Ferns, travelling the world, doing what you love best and, to make it even better, you're with a bunch of friends.

Being involved in a team sport can give you many amazing opportunities and, if you work hard, you have a chance of experiencing some memorable journeys. By playing sports, people learn to set goals and then work hard to achieve them.

If you try your best to achieve your goals, anything is possible. People also learn they have to work together as a team to win.

The quote "there's no 'I' in team but there's a 'u' in us" captures what a team really is.

Participating in a team sport is more fun than just being involved in an individual sport as you have the chance to meet others who you can share some amazing memories with.

I think it should be compulsory for students to be involved in a team sport as it has many benefits. It's good for your health, you have the satisfaction of winning and the interaction with others.

Many people I know say how fun they find team sports and I'm sure most others would agree. I hope after reading this you consider taking up a new team sport and have a lot of fun doing it.

Sarah Power, Year 10, Palmerston North Girls' High