Olympics. Is it my imagination or do we have a bunch of poor sports this year? ?

Question

It used to be that coaches emphasized being a good sport. If you lose, put a good face on it. Never grouse. So what the heck happened? Do we really want these whiners setting this kind of example for our kids?

Answer 1

This is the new generation; they want everything quick and easy.

No medal = no smile!

No medal = bad attitude.

Give the kid a medal and he'll be nice for a while....

Answer 2

I beg to disagree with you. It seems that the most grousing has been from the commentators who are supported by some expert in the field being viewed. They did have a problem with judging in the gymnastics events and Bella did indicate there may have been some favoritism in a couple of the decisions. As for the competitors themselves, I saw the swimming events and most of the gymnastics and none of the players groused. They expressed disappointment for not having done their best for the team which is a normal reaction. Regardless of the activity any loser is usually discouraged for not having done better. If that is what you call grousing, so be it.

Answer 3

both athletes and fans seems to be soar losers this year.

Heck...my country doesn't even have a medal yet and I'm still watching..waiting ....patiently lol

Answer 4

If you knew what time, effort and dedication went into becoming a world class athlete, you might understand why cheating or even suspected cheating gets people upset. Cheaters waste everybody's time.  

Answer 5

It's the whole "self esteem movement" thing, where parents, in order to make their kids happy, over emphasize their strengths, making their kids feel like they're the most unique, the strongest, the smartest person, in the world.  At minor league baseball games, they no longer give out MVP awards because "it hurts the feelings of those who don't get it."  Instead, they give everyone a participation award.  

Answer 6

seems that way

but

I'm sure there were instances of the same thing going on last time, but who can remember those 4yrs. ago

Answer 7

excellent point

Americans are greatly annoyed by people in their society who have much, but whine for more (pro athletes, for one example).

But they don't see themselves doing it on the Olympic stage.