One can claim anything they wish but it doesn't make it true.....
Yes, to the point that high schoolers are obtaining and taking drugs meant to treat attention deficit disorder because they think it might give them an edge. A group of high schoolers in our town had an anabolic steroid ring for performance enhancement. Ambition is great, winning at any cost is a character flaw with very significant implications.
I'm all for good clean competition, in any arena, but I also think we need to emphasize the old adage, ‘do your best, try your hardest, be honest, try to win, and give your all, but if you don't win you can hold your head up for giving it your best shot and playing fairly’ (irrespective of the context).
No problems with the competitive spirit in the state known for "Remember the Alamo!"
My 12 YO son hates to lose, but he's usually a good sport about it. I'm trying to channel that spirit, because it will serve him well in life.
His goal is to matriculate at UT-Austin, a worthy goal when you consider that he'll have to finish in the top 8% of his class to qualify.
His other goals include Eagle Scout, and playing linebacker or cornerback in HS.
I asked the kids in my 6th grade class (Sunday School) if they hear what parents say/yell from the stands during their games. One young lady summed it up, regarding any negativity: "Of course I hear it. It just makes me more focused to prove them wrong."
Texas will continue to lead the way in the 21st century.