You are all correct, it just depends on who you play for and what you are looking for. As with any product there are going to be good ones and bad ones, things you want and things you believe you need. These are decisions that only an individual can make. There is no blanket judgement of right or wrong, good or bad. Some choose to travel all over the place and spend tons of money, some want less of a commitment of time and lower costs. In the end the most important question is "who are we doing this for?" If you're being honest and your child loves what he is doing and you can afford it then it makes sense. Regardless of what kids do today it costs money. Whether they are into music, art, sports, etc. there is always going to be a cost involved in both time and money. Let go of the notion that this is necessary in order to go to college. The odds are that most players are only going to maximize their potential in anything if they have something special inside them and the love of that something brings it out. If there is no enjoyment there will be nothing but regret in the long run. If your child loves what he is doing, likes his teammates and plays for good coaches then just enjoy the experience and understand it is as much about making friends and memories as it is about anything else. There is no shame in walking away from something that you don't believe is good for you, or more importantly, your child.
