For all that has been said about US gyms "over-rewarding" kids by going out 50% (often) in awards, etc. I think in general gymnastics doesn't have the issues that this article is discussing. Sure, the kid who comes in 22nd place may still get a medal (at the big meets where there are 40+ kids in an age group) but the first place winner KNOWS that she is 1st place. I think gymnastics is a sport where even the best athletes are pushed to work to be even better, and where kids who love the sport but aren't superstars are encouraged to compete against themselves... improve their score from the last meet, etc. Thoughts?
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/25/opinion/losing-is-good-for-you.html?_r=0
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/25/opinion/losing-is-good-for-you.html?_r=0