Hopefully once age verification is in place next year all this holdback stuff ends. If the kids are the correct age they play that grade - if not then play at your age instead of grade. Does anyone really believe the anonymous fact checker on BOTC who says a kid is older or on age?
National teams are a joke and pure money maker, but I guess there’s a market for ensuring you kid can have great Instagram posts. Find a good local club where your kid plays a key role that has well run practices, that should be the priority for development. National teams may be a fun experience but can’t replace a local club.
Please remember not every national team player has the same level of local teams to choose from. Some kids enjoy the one chance to play with kids their age and ability. Furthermore, some appreciate the chance to play bigger and better tournaments rather than face the same regional teams in uncompetitive tournaments.
