how is the SEAA World Series format, competition, etc...?? We are trying to put our 2011 schedule together and if ASA A nationals is in California, we may need to consider more economical options. For those that know, please chime in.
Les - Our 11U team went this past year - Here is my cliff notes version of my observations.
1 - Opening ceremonies were bad - My daughter went to ASA-A's the year before so maybe my sample was not the best - All I know is ASA's were very organized and a lot of fun - Our entire team left before we walked the stage in Pigeon Forge.....
*****That is the last bad thing I have to say about SEAA******
2 - The competition was great at the 12U level - We did play 2 teams that would not make it past pool play in Ohio, but other than that, every other game was top notch...
3 - The facilities were great - The fields were in great shape and the volunteers took great care of everyone there..... short story - My wife and I brought our 5 month old....115 degrees with the heat index.....Someone from the staff noticed my wife and my baby girl in the heat...they brought them into the concession/umpires area in the A/C to keep them safe - Can't say enough about how gratefull I am for that!!!!!
4 - The area is FULL of things to do from a team perspective - Anyone interested in going shoot me a pm and I will fill you in on what we did and what we recommend.
5 - There are a lot of places to stay, but we hit the mother-load with the help of one of our parents - Anyone THINKING about going let me know and I will give you the info - Limited space, but the price is great and it is within an 8 iron of the main facility. (my 8 iron....if you aim right and play it back in your stance!)
Overalll, we (11U Rays) had a great time in Pigeon Forge - The Opening Ceremonies were a little crazy, but the ball and the facilities were great - I would recommend it to anyone looking for a "cost effective" alternative to ASA/NSA/USSSA nationals - We thought about going back, but we may be heading to Myrtle Beach for some "sand fun" this coming summer!!!!!!
Les, It goes without saying that we have to remember the age of our girls....We would all like to test our skill against the best, which is no doubt ASA Nationals, but at some point we need to remind ourselves they are kids...I truly believe that we face quality competion here in Ohio and do not need to prove ourselves anymore - If we can play ball somewhere fun and give the parents a "mini vacation" in the process.......we did our job as coaches.
