Winning is the main projective at nearly all levels from high school to college to the pro athletic levels.

Sure, winning makes us feel good, like we’ve accomplished something great. But the answers are there when you win.  

The problem with constant winning, however, is that we never have to face our demons.  

Despite Marcos de Niza's best efforts, Poston Butte spoiled the Padres' 7-0 undefeated start when they defeated them, 39-11, at home on Oct. 28.

Loss is often associated with negativity.  Rather, forces one to re-evaluate game and practice strategies, forcing one to self-reflect and self-improve.  

Senior outside linebacker Marcus Jones won’t shy away from the challenge, rolling with the punches.  

“We needed this,” said Jones.  “We now know what to work on and what to focus on.”

Losing is a constant process.  Starting quarterback Braeson Leon understands the importance of this. 

“One loss won't define our team,” said Leon. “It is better to get a loss now instead of the playoffs.”

It is absolutely normal to want to win, to want to feel good about yourself.  

But how does a person learn from their mistakes if one never makes any?

“Being perfect isn’t an option but we can grace it,” Jones mentioned.  “We have heart. I bet you will never see a team more upset about losing a regular season game.”

Although it may be difficult, it is okay to lose, to lose often, and to lose time and time again.  

It builds character, showing us how to keep on going when the times get tough.  

“This has already lit a fire under us because this loss hurt everyone so bad,” said senior wide receiver Jamaal Young II.  “We don't want each other to ever feel like that again. So we are doing everything in our power for that to not happen again.”  

It is exciting when you win, it is also exciting when you lose, because the process and approach should never change.  

“We must continue to go 1-0 every week for the rest of our season,” Leon mentioned.  “Staying the course, keeping with the same goals and mindsets that got us to the point.”

Recovering after taking a loss and returning to play builds a mentality that will ensure that ultimately, one will be prepared for what life has to offer.  

“That Saturday after the game I didn't get out of film until 1:30 p.m.,” said Young. “I got there at 8am, it's a whole new shift.”

Jamaal added, “We also did full contact, which we haven't done since week 1.  We are going back to what has made us work.”  

Confidence is great, but losing helps remind us that somewhere, someone else is potentially better.  

With two weeks left in the regular season, Marcos De Niza won’t let complacency get in the way again.  

“This loss to Poston Butte made us even more focused on the end goal of going to the championship because it gave us a wake up call,” Young said.  “If you don't prepare enough, a team will smack you in the face no problem.”  

The Padres will look to make a run in the playoffs, proving that the team belongs as a top 4A program.  

The lategreat Kobe Bryant finds losing “exciting” because it taught him how to properly win and be a better overall player.

With this being said, lose a little.  Failure isn’t bad.

It teaches us how to be people who can carry the weight of the world on their shoulders.