The context of the following conversation is Lee's team needed more practice, so Lee wanted to protect them from the harsh realities of competing.:
Lee says My team needs more practice before finals..
The friend responds You don't think they are ready to compete?.
Lee responds Not really, and I don't want them to be disappointed if we lose..
The friend responds Well, we all have to learn failure in order to work harder..
Lee responds That's true I guess..