That's actually very true.
I must be a closet australian because I HATE losing at ANYTHING and I damn well let my feelings known.
I get some reet humiliation if I get beaten at anything which makes the desire to win even greater; be it Table Tennis or Tiddleywinks.
When I see the 'British' mentality to competition I cringe and I'm never allowed to get the same satisfaction out of winning, by the time i've finished a smoke I'm feeling sorry for the bloke.

I understand exactly how you feel.

Well said, this is so true. I remember on holiday a few years ago. There was 2 kids playing pool, 1 kid beat the other & was well chuffed with himself until his mum put him in his place for going over the top.
'Its not the winning, but the taking part that counts'-rubbish!

Anyway, I've said this before, our climate doesn't help. Its always bloody raining & cold, who'd want to play out in this? You have gorgeous weather down your way. Picture this, 26 school kids playing rugby league in England...its raining, cold...the pitch is muddy-not dropping the ball is the main priority. The game mainly played up the middle. It doesn't exactly encourage slick handling skills or great little grubber kicks. Then we have 26 school kids playing rugby league in Australia. Perfect, sunny weather...less chance of the ball slipping out your hands...the ball getting thrown around more, more creativity etc

Your climate gives you the edge.