the sadness after

My 12-year-old son played on his first traveling tournament team this year. The team played well but lost in their district, dropping the final game in the bottom of the seventh when the opponents came from two runs back to win. He played well (every minute of every game) and had a great time. He liked the kids, the coaches, and traveling to new places to play. Most of all, he liked competing with very good players.

Here's the problem: For the first time ever, losing a game has gotten to him. He is so sad, it breaks my heart. He doesn't mope or whine; he just seems sad, and wanders around at loose ends. He had dreamed of playing all summer, working up the tournament ladder, and now it's over. Surely some of you have faced this before. What can I do to help him? Should I take him out in the yard and practice with him (he never turns this down, even, I suspect, when he's not really in the mood)? Should I suggest a break? Fishing, camping, etc.? Or just give it time?