I agree 100% with you that the lack of sports is an opportunity missed. It's actually a sore spot for me. I feel like back in the day it built a lot of quorum unity and gave fellowshipping opportunities outside of the church. In Utah, we are missing the sense of community that you see in other places where the church isn't ubiquitous.

Sports presented an opportunity for men and boys to work at something together and have fun. It made Sundays easier. It made neighborhoods closer and made people learn to rely on each other more. I think this is missing in the church today in Utah in many wards. Healthy competition breeds unity and I worry that stake presidents let the 5% of people that are jerks ruin their perception of the benefits.