I agree completely- one of the nicest fighter guys I flew with was also the
smoothest (the best in energy management). As an IP, he was comfortable
letting me do a bunch of acro in the 16, although except for the raw power
it flies like a pig compared to my Extra. He is now a wing commander, and on
the way to becoming a BG.

On the other hand, I flew with a T-37 pilot who didn't get promoted to major
for some reason, and was getting out. He sounded kind of bitter, and it made
me a little nervous flying with him. He wouldn't let me put the gear down.
Considering how underpowered it is, the T-37 was amazingly quick in pitch.

Perhaps there's some truth about the cream rising to the top.