[Robert Cawthon]

I think, like many quotes, "We (You) are all winners here" is over used and has lost much of its meaning. I think that the only time a mentor should use that is:
1. When his team has just won a competition or other award and is speaking to the other team(s) who have not fared as well. Be prepared to back up your statement with your beliefs as to why they are winners also.

2. To their own team only if they then explain why they think so and give concrete examples of what the team did to make themselves winners.

The kids can tell, usually, when you are blowing smoke and when you really believe what you say. Better to not say it (even though it may be true) than to come off as glib or just trying to make some people feel better about themselves.

Better to be thought of as a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt! One must be very careful when talking to the students. They are the reason we are here, after all.