Superpro ... not everyone playing 18-U these days is a high school senior or older ... also keep in mind that some of the team's/organization's fees such as insurance, sanctioning, etc. are the same per person/team regardless of the number of tourneys played, that there are often more players on an 18-U roster, and that some of the upper/showcase tournaments actually cost more to attend. And sometimes even the uniforms or other gear can cost a little more because of the larger sizes. I think you're trying to cut things a little too fine here ...
I agree to disagree. JMHO...
Most of the 17 year old player's are seniors and some 18 year olds are
also seniors if not they are in collage, or out of school. Not saying that a 16
years old player can't be on team, also having more players on an 18-U roster
team, means more money for team/Org.. Add it up. The cost will cover everything
you mention. As for bigger sizes uniforms, That only applies to x and xx sizes.
I do agree with the Upper/Showcases tournaments cost more. But that's only 2
maybe 3 showcases for the average/above average teams. We aren't talking about
GOLD or ELITE teams here. I still say It should cost the average 13 player 18-U
team 350.00 to 400.00 per player. Add it up, Then add the cost of 5/6
tournaments, ave. cost 400.00 - 425.00, Then maybe nationals. add uniforms
fee, ASA registration and insurance, add coaches fee. I may be off, But not by
2500/2800.00 if paying 650.00 or higher per 18U player.
Don't get me wrong, I have supported T. B. for 6 years and never had a
problem paying fees, But being involved in 18U the past 2 years, I've seen the
downside of the Practices, Friendly games, Fall games, winter games fall off big
time. Always looking for pick-up players to play weekend toury.due to girls
working or can't make games for whatever reason.. Also, Where are all the
players? A lot of girls do not come back 2nd year of 18U? Is it because of
fees? Travel expenses? Collage?