I think that it can be a very helpful learning experience to find out what one is *really* up against in a competition setting. I'd really hate to have people go easy on me, and give me a false sense of confidence, and then when it really counts, have to wake up and smell the coffee.
Personally, I'd want to know right out the gate. People shouldn't be turned off from a sport they enjoy just because they may not win comps, just like they shouldn't do a sport (or whatever) just because they win.
I think the most important thing one learns from sports, and from competition, is what *you* are made of.
Also, I have friends who have won their division in dance competitions where everyone knows that particular comp, or division, or whatever, was a total joke. Yet they display that trophey with pride and list it on their dance bios...and no one respects them for it. On the other hand, last year I was in a very difficult dance comp, where full-time professionals from all over the country showed up! I didn't win even third place, *but* I know I did very well on the stage with those ladies, and that pleases me much more.
Plus I was only one vote away from People's Choice. LA! heh.
Edited to add NOTE: Heh, and this coming from a person who wasn't even allowed to try out for sports in school, because if I was good enough to get a slot, that would take away someone else's opportunity to get that slot and play. If that isn't completely F*-ed Up, I don't know what is.
I can't believe I'm not more screwed up than I am!
