In part, the answer lies in observing the athletes at play. Each performance must be evaluated within the context of the sport. Scoring points, lowering times or improving distances are relevant, because they imply something about the effort made. In short, making an effort to be competitive involves a complex set of tasks, which differ from sport to sport. Moreover, it is obvious when athletes are failing to put forth the proper effort to make each minute of a contest competitive.
Coaches cease to worry about strategies.
Spectators lose interest and leave or begin socializing. When the games are no longer contests, playing them ceases to be fun. The challenge is for the adults associated with youth sports to redefine winning in terms of effort and to restructure play to promote effort. Helping players set achievable, individual goals. Teaching athletes to measure their success in terms of attaining such goals, and Celebrating with and rewarding players who reach their goals.