Originally Posted by Anonymous
Dont be fooled by statements from anyone that coaches and organizations prefer players to be "well rounded" from playing multiple sports. Deep inside we know the truth, and that is that everyone wants to win, FIRST, and sometimes at all costs. Players that play year round and participate in travel teams are much more likely to succeed,because teams like 91 will do whatever it takes to win. This sets the tone for all other organizations to follow (and not be left behind). Money is the root of all evil after all.

You are referring to two different issues here. Practicing all year round will defininitely give you the best chance of being the best team at your age group, . The kids will develop their skills quicker and the team will have more continuity. If your goal is to dominate at the youth level than have at it. The owners of the clubs want that because "the keep up with the Jonses" phenomenon in LI lax is just what these BUSINESS men are counting on. (the America Dream). That being said having the best team in 3rd grade or even 8th grade is not getting your kid into college. The coaches don't see them until they are in ninth grade (the earliest) and that is more likely if they play in their school playoff game. For the parents on the "year round" teams you just have to know that if your kid is not a "top 5 kid and he is in 5th or 6th grade there is a good chance by the time your in High school your kid will be replaced or at the back of the bench. Other kids will catch up! Even the kids who don't play year round. Don't get me wrong, I think it is important to stay involved in a travel program and work on your skills, but dont't do the year round thing if you are doing it because you feel presured that your kid won't be able to keep his spot on the team. There are plenty of teams out there and by the time they are in HS the difference in those teams will be surprisingly slim.