Perfect way to get your kid injured. Sounds like it’s more for Daddy’s ego.
There are exceptions and occasionally it is fine but it is generally a bad idea. Put aside the worthiness of the program, talent of the kid playing, etc., your son is in 8th grade and going to be interacting with many kids 4 years older than he is. The coach will tell the upper classman to be on their best behavior but, even when behaving, they will be discussing things that you don't need to have your 8th grade son involved in at this time in his life. One more year of growing up won't hurt him and, if that good, 4 years of varsity is still very impressive.
