Uniforms have for centuries represented belonging, values, traditions and expected codes of conduct. A uniform is a symbol of something beyond the material, stitch work and colours from which it is assembled.
If sports clubs are merely places where people play their chosen sport, then they don’t need a uniform. Opposing teams can simply be identified by playing in universally accepted contrasting colours.
But try telling a sports team that their uniform is merely a means to avoid playing naked and with no more meaning than beneficial contrast and I dare say you’re in for an argument.
Coaches will remind players of club values and the meaning behind the guernsey before sending them off to pit both skills and strength of character against the opposition.
Telling a soldier that his uniform serves no purpose other than separating him from the enemy would soon have you offside and appearing somewhat like the enemy.