Sports had a very big impact in my life. I met a lot of my good friends playing basketball, and I got closer to others while playing constantly with them. I think sports teach people a lot of life lessons. How hard work pays off, the bitterness of defeat, and the motivation one gets after coming up short. I don't have a kid, but if I did, I would definitely want them to play some sort of sport, and that could also be our bonding.
You've hit the nail right on the head with your comment and I've nothing to add really. Nicely said.