I haul to the Texas majors, and the AJSA junior nationals, plus I sell a few calves for juniors to show as well. I have opinions as well on both sides of the debate actually.
I agree that sometimes it is very political, and there are ocassions when it's pretty much a concensus that the best calf didn't win. We also all have opinions on what we feel is the best animal, and when you go into the ring, you're asking for that particular judge's opinion. You certainly don't have to agree with it, but you DID ask for it. So be a good sportsman, and teach your children to be as well.
I do think it was rude and unfeeling of the judge to not make a comment on all of the calves, especially since they are kids. They at least feel as if he LOOKED at them. I can remember years ago I was at a small county show, and there was this young man that had the most AWFUL steer I've ever seen. I mean, toed out, straight shoulder, not guts, blah blah. He of course stood last, but the judge made a point to still find a couple of things nice he could say about the steer, and made a few suggestions as to what to look for next time. The young man listened and learned. And the next year I sold him a MUCH nicer calf, at .79 a pound.
Having said that, I LOVE to show. I go to meet the other breeders / friends that I haven't seen since the last show, and I love to talk to the folks walking around the barns. I always take animals that can be handled, so kids can pet them. I take the best cattle I have, with the hopes of winning, but if someone has one nicer, I'm glad for them to win also. It amazes me how many people take it TOO SERIOUSLY.