On looking back, I think the above is part of what I've been trying to say that I haven't done a good job of expressing...it's not about just kicking back and having fun, but it's also not just about the condition of BEING number one, either...it's about players, teams, and coaches challenging themselves, no matter what the level and rank. I consider a good season one where everyone leaves as a stronger, smarter, better competitor than they were when the season began, and because they are, they can experience "fun" through a sense of accomplishment. If that means learning to play up to stronger competition, then so be it...I see it as better to gain ground by closing in on the competition than to rest on your laurels as #1. If all the best players simply move to the "winning-est" teams...then who will they play against on a day-to-day basis to challenge them to get even better?
Just thinking out loud...this Christmas-break lull puts me to pondering to alleviate the boredom.
