That is a real general statement! Are you saying that you can't be a good coach in a sport unless you played that particular sport? That is rediculous! It all depends on the individual and their skill set. Some of the best players make the WORST coaches! In fact I have found that the many of the paid coaches are less committed because they are not as invested in the team as a dad would be. The bottom line is that each team and situation is different. Every parent should research the teams at that age group and figure out which one is more suited for their son/daughter and their budget.Making broad statements like "stay away" from a team coached by someone who didn't play lax is ignorant!