In team sports , the number , often referred to as the uniform number , squad number , jersey number , shirt number , sweater number , or similar ( with such naming differences varying by sport and region ) is the number worn on a player 's uniform , to identify and distinguish each player ( and sometimes others , such as coaches and officials ) from others wearing the same or similar uniforms .
In team sports , the number , often referred to as the uniform number , squad number , jersey number , shirt number , sweater number , is the number worn on a player 's uniform . It distinguishes each player from others wearing the same uniform .