Emotions are a central component of the sports experience. They reflect athletes’ personal judgments of their performances and those of other spectators. Some feelings are anticipatory prior to performance, while others occur during and after the event. In many sports, these emotions are scripted into cultural practices, such as proper behaviour during the national anthem or a postgame victory celebration. Here are some examples of emotions common to athletes and their supporters:
The word “sport” connotes intense physical activity. In a game, the participants move their bodies in a particular way to advance the object of the sport. The competition and sweating involved are both typical. The competitions are usually governed by rules, which ensure fair competition and consistent adjudication of winners. Observers follow sport news to keep abreast of the latest results. Sports are important sources of entertainment, particularly spectator sports, which draw large crowds and are broadcasted around the world.
Participating in sports enhances social relationships. Involvement in sports helps students learn how to work well as a team. They develop emotional strength and learn to cope with defeat and victory. These are important life skills that will benefit them later in life. And it’s a proven fact that sports help young people learn a variety of other skills. And because they can be used as a socialization tool, these benefits are important for student-athletes.