(TELEGRAPH) — Britain risks losing its competitive edge because a generation of children is no longer interested in winning on the sporting field, according to research.
Figures show the majority of children are not bothered if the competitive element is removed from football, cricket, rugby and hockey fixtures, saying playing for fun or being with friends is more important.
It emerged that mothers and fathers place a considerably greater focus on winning or losing, with some even admitting they would not watch their children play sport if there was no final result.
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The disclosure, in a study by the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) and cricketing charity Chance to Shine, will fuel concerns that a "prizes for all" culture in schools over the last few decades has eroded children's competitive spirit.