The real reason IMO we have so many kids that are "pussified" comes from their parents being overly involved and micromanaging their kids lives, and not allowing them to fail or experience set backs, and how to deal with it. And honestly, those who drive their kids to excel often times push their kids too hard, to the point where the kids feels they cant fail or else risk the wrath of mommy and daddy. And that fear drives them on, rather than love of what they are doing, and when they do finally fail, as everyone eventually does, they dont know how to deal with it, and its earth shattering to them.
Which brings it full circle to end my /rant. Just participating early, gaining the love of w/e you want rather than worrying about some stupid trophy and who gets one at the end leads to a more fulfilling time for the child, and its true in all cases. And actually if done right prepares them for disappointment, realize that winning isn't everything, and that winning is preferred over losing, if you do lose, you dont meltdown and learn from the mistakes and try better next time. That should be the goal anyways.