“I've missed over 9,000 shots in my career. I lost almost 300 matches. 26 times I was trusted to make the winning shot and I missed it. I have failed over and over again in my life. And that’s why I’m successful” (Jordan, 2001). This quote from Michael Jordan illustrates an athlete's mentality towards not only the game, but also life. When some people fail, they just give up completely. Non-athletes, they know how to overcome difficulties and succeed despite the challenges they face. Sport is a beneficial activity and it prepares you for life in many ways. In addition to improving physical health, playing sports can strengthen personality and enrich socialization skills that will last a lifetime. Physical HealthThe health benefits that come from playing a sport are countless. For example, physical activity has been shown to contribute to the development of healthy bones, better heart and lung function, and improved motor and cognitive skills. It can help prevent bone fractures and lessen the effects of osteoporosis (Health, 2003). Physical activity combats another major and growing problem in America, obesity. Over the past 20 years, obesity has increased significantly in the United States. In the United States, more than a third of adults and approximately 17% (or 12.5 million) of children are obese (Centers, 2012). These percentages are scandalous and must be reduced. Obesity is a leading cause of preventable death in the United States, causing approximately 200,000 deaths per year (United, 2013). It is linked to many other diseases including: Type 2 Diabetes, Heart Disease, Hypertension, Metabolic Syndrome, Polycy...... middle of paper ......you can choose your level of competitiveness and organize tournaments with other teams. These teams can last for decades, and ultimately, they allow you to be healthier and live longer. The value of sport is obvious; you improve your overall health, you learn new skills, and you have something you can enjoy for the rest of your life. If you've never tried a sport before, don't worry; it's never too late to learn. If you're worried about not being athletic enough, fear not; you're going straight to the Olympics. Anyone can learn a sport; it may take a little longer for some. If you don't know which sport to choose, try several. There is a sport for everyone; you will eventually find one you like. Whether you're someone who hasn't played since the good old days of high school or you haven't played at all, jump in and get involved..