This topic is usually very popular every summer about this time in the season. Playing time is one of the most misunderstood things about competitive fastpitch - which IS NOT the same as recreational fastpitch, or "roster ball". A large number of these complaints come from parents who are new to the realm of competitive tournament ball. A jump from rec to travel can be an eye opener for a lot of parents. DD was a star stand-out player in rec, but becomes just another fish in a vast sea of stand-outs in travel ball. There are some reality checks to keep in mind, as well as a change in viewpoint when moving from rec to travel.
Playing time doesn't just magically happen. It starts in winter individual batting practices, pitching lessons, squaring your shoulders EVERY TIME when throwing in practice, running out first base EVEN ON FOUL BALLS. I could go on forever. I'm not pointing fingers at all, but I lost track of how many kids I've seen just "go through the motions" in their team practices. Lazy throws, poor concentration, lazy swings, lack of hustle, etc. PRACTICE LIKE YOU PLAY - PLAY LIKE YOU PRACTICE is SO true. Swing a bat poorly in practice, and I guarantee you'll swing poorly in games.
The reality is that every athlete is NOT created equal. As a parent, you have to be realistic about your DD's God-given ability. Set realistic goals for your DD, and help her to succeed. Take her to one of the Div. I camps over the winter in Ohio. Ask a coach there to give you a realistic evaluation of her athletic ability. Those coaches can spot undeveloped raw talent better than most. Use that info to guide your DD onto a travel team where she can be successful. If she's 3.8 secs. to first, she probably won't be a lefty slapper on the Lasers Gold. BUT - if she hits with power, and has a rocket arm, there's a niche for her on a team somewhere.
Yes - travel ball IS about winning. Competitors DO NOT want to lose, and there's nothing wrong with that. However, if the FOCUS is on winning, you're on a slippery slope. Games must be played one inning, one at-bat, one pitch at a time. Focus on those small fundamental details of the game, and winning will just happen. All the good throws, well placed pitches, fundamental footwork, etc. all add up to wins. Be one of those players that executes those fundamentals VERY WELL, and there are teams that will be scrambling to get you to play for them - Div. I colleges that will pay for your education to get you on their team!
