Soon after beginning a sport, athletes notice the people around them are not only teammates but also competitors. They see that in striving to become better players, they must strive to be as good or better than their teammates - without bitterness, anger or frustration. Sports teach the art of competition. Athletes also learn how to shake hands after a game, regardless of the winner or loser. An athlete learns that everyone who comes to compete has something to offer and possibly a new trick to teach.
Sports teach respect for one's competitors.
From the beginning, sports also show athletes that there are moments when a person shines, moments that bring joy and awe. These moments are priceless, and each team member wants to share that moment with the one who gave it to them - congratulations are part of the game. Sports teach us to revel in life's glorious moments. With a few outstanding exceptions, the student of sport also soon learns that we can't always win. But a loss does not mean an end to a career, it means we are inspired to work that much harder for greatness.