Among their many benefits to individuals and communities, sports are known for fostering unity and promoting growth and teamwork.Throughout history, games have been used by communities to remedy cycles of mistrust and conflict, strengthening ties and bringing people together. Under the right circumstances, sports can help build safer, stronger and healthier relationships between groups of people.
Some agencies sponsor games with the aim of helping children in unstable areas. According to statistics recently released by PeacePlayers International, more than one billion children live in unsafe communities, and in many cases, sport has been proven to be a buffer against violence. Often in such communities, kids take a hostile view towards outsiders. However, given the chance to compete against them on the playing field, children from different places get the chance to talk with, and ultimately learn about each other. In doing so, they can find common ground and set aside their differences.
There is perhaps no better example of the unifying spirit of sport than the Olympics. Ever since their beginnings in ancient times, the Games have brought competitors from all over the world together to represent their communities in various competitions. The Olympics have proven very effective at bridging the gap between different cultures and communities: In addition to the athletes, the Games draw in spectators from across the globe, eager to cheer on their nations. Through both playing and spectating, people set aside their differences at the Olympics to celebrate their shared love of sport and competition.
Having seen the success of sporting activities in uniting communities, companies are incorporating them into their team building initiatives. Sport-related activities are a very popular way for companies to motivate employees to work together. By competing alongside one another, they learn to trust other members of their team, and to defer to them in the areas where they are best talented. Ultimately, this enhanced teamwork helps everybody achieve more together than they can alone.
If you live in or near Richmond, B.C., consider an Olympic-themed event for your next team-building activity. Whether you coach a children’s sports team, or oversee a team of employees, an Olympic-themed event at The ROX: The Richmond Olympic Experience at the Richmond Oval might be just what you are looking for. If you want to put together a memorable event for your B.C. team, visit the ROX at their website to learn about the fun activities that are available.
With sport simulators and interactive challenges designed to stimulate team play and skill-building, it’s the kind of experience that will turn your next team-building activity into a truly memorable day. Team building has never been more fun, interactive, or interesting, so if you’re in the Richmond area, stop on by.