Learn from the best opponents.

School sports, livestock shows, speech and debate, quiz bowls, computer contests, cheer competition, and other competitions are going strong.

The usual winners and losers discussions begin attacking the advantages and disadvantsges.

Stop. Make sure the fundamentals are demonstrated to those on the teams. Some students pick up skills quicker than others and excel at a faster pace. If humans really want to excel they will practice and practice to hone those skills. Others actually dedicate their lives to those skills to be the best  and to stay at the top. Those who are the best are always evaluating their skills. When they are beaten they evaluate their opponent to learn more.

It's not about winning or losing. It is about developing skills. You have to really want something to work hard to be the best. And even the best continue to work to hone those skills for life.