Did you know that playing sports can lead to a healthy heart and a longer life expectancy? You probably already do this. We all know how practicing a sport can do wonders for our health. However, to point out the obvious would be to underestimate the incredible history of the sport and the equally incredible values ​​that come with it. Let’s think outside the box for a change. Sports provide practical experience by teaching us values, including sportsmanship, perseverance and teamwork. Exploring these values ​​in depth would pave the way for a world with less cut-throat competition, less acceptance of failure, and less self-interest in team goals. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Sportsmanship is an underrated aspect of playing a sport. Although they are considered rivals of each other, the athletes learn to develop mutual respect and love the game itself rather than the external rewards. A 2010 study by the Awards and Recognition Association (ARA) showed that 67% of Americans believe that sports participation and good sportsmanship can unite the community. A notable example from the 2001 FIFA World Cup can also bring this belief to life. Instead of shooting towards the net left unattended by an injured Everton keeper, West Ham's Paolo di Canio grabbed the ball to deal with his opponent. This led to the crowd, made up of West Ham and Everton fans, uniting in celebration of his actions. This theme of fair play does not disappear with team sports. Heading into the Rio 2016 Olympics, the world witnessed New Zealand's Nikki Hamblin collide with American Abbey D'Agostino in the 5,000 meter race. After recovering from the shock, they were moved to see the women helping each other up and running the rest of the race together. In a way, sports teaches us that love conquers all and reminds us that people can be remembered for their acts of kindness, not just their successes. Persistence is one of the many advantages that athletes acquire over time. Those who get back up after being hit by failure are more likely to succeed than those who stay face down in the face of defeat. The Journal of Leadership & Organizational Studies found that 43% of American high school student athletes tend to have more self-confidence and self-respect, two characteristics necessary to persevere against all odds. NBA player Jeremy Linn left empty-handed in terms of athletic scholarships and was waived by the Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets. It wasn't until he joined the New York Knicks and was added to a game out of sheer desperation that his career began to skyrocket. The power of perseverance can even combat opponents who “play dirty.” Despite being a top ten fighter in the UFC, Michael Bisping was failing to challenge for a title and was facing losses to fighters who were later exposed for taking performance-enhancing drugs. Despite these setbacks, he managed to defeat Luke Rockhold for the UFC Middleweight title. There has never been success in sport without a certain degree of perseverance. This growth mindset pushed even the most inexperienced champions to gradually reach the top. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Teamwork, which.