Several of the programs now have teams for 3rd grade and even 2nd grade...LI Jesters is as good as any at that age (and argubly for the older kids as well as evidenced by their u-15 making the finals of the National Championship last year)...you are 100% correct, in that its about exposing your child to other kids who are dedicated to the game and presumably have skills that match, getting some more intensive coaching, playing in a competitive league and competitive tournaments...I beleive all of the programs offer the above but at different costs. The one mistake some parents make is they believe that if they join a 91 or Express etc. at a young age that they are guarnateed to be with that team over the years.