What do wrestling, swimming, golf, gymnastics and tennis have in common? They’re all high school sports where your children can express their individuality and still experience all the benefits of being part of a team.

Research indicates high school athletes have greater self-esteem. And athletes who participate in individual sports learn how to be more self-reliant and develop more self-discipline.

Although they compete on their own, athletes who participate in individual sports still enjoy all the benefits of being on a team—close friendships, a sense of belonging and the satisfaction that comes with contributing to their team’s overall performance.

Encourage your children to try out for an individual sport in high school. They’ll enjoy the best of both worlds—expressing their individuality and competing on behalf of their school’s team.