It is such a shame that for many youngsters, those attributes are drained away from them throughout childhood, robbing them of vital attributes for later life. I cringe when I hear parents saying it's the taking part that counts. Of course, everyone should be encouraged to enjoy what they are doing. If it's not fun, they won't want to continue taking part and improving. That said, one thing I have learned is that winning is a whole lot more fun than losing.