Having played Team Smithtown the past few years and now watching this year's 3rd grade boys closely (due to friendships), there are plenty of towns that have strong 3rd grade teams like never before.
Sure they are 8/9 & in 3rd grade, but look at those same town's 4th - 6th grade programs who've had success in 3rd grade. All solid teams.
Unfortunately, the travel programs have also influenced a lot of these teams/coaches to stray away from thier town teams only to build a stronger team and bank account for big brother's elite/travel organization.
all that said, the future of LI lax looks bright, cant wait to see FL and TX fall into the east coast tourneys. | 
