A sport is a game or any physical activity, mainly outdoor, involving competition. Cricket, football, table-tennis are some common sports. A student is ideally engaged in studies which tax his mind and brain, and sports provide the much needed physical activity.
Usually when we speak of the influence of sports on an individual, we should be fully aware of its effect on his character and personality. It is essential for students to take part in sports. A game like cricket instills in them the team spirit. A student who plays in a cricket team in no longer a selfish, self-centered individual. His every move and effort in the game is done on behalf of his team. He takes no credit as an individual, but contributes to the success of his team.
As a player, he develops his concentration and alertness. He must have a watchful eye on the progress of the opposite team In the course of the game he makes a keen study of each player and his ability. By constant practice he learns to judge the further trend of the game. Thus each player prepares himself for a win or defeat, unless a sudden twist leads to an unexpected result. A victory should not make him haughty, nor should a defeat depress his spirit.
He should know that success or failure depends on the wheel of chance, and meet either of them with the same cool, calm head of a true sportsman. This is what we call the sporting spirit.
A good game with a strong opponent develops the tenacity and perseverance of a player. The open air helps to build up a healthy body. Being a bookworm will undermine the health of a student. A judicious combination of intellectual and physical activity will contribute to the intellectual and physical growth of a student, and there will be no fear of Jack becoming a dull boy.