OK, I need to weigh in on this. I coach both. I hear all of the "travel snobs" continually railling about the politics of HS ball, and how their superstar did not make Varsity as a Freshman. Wah...Wah..Wah. Here is the truth in my world. At the HS level, I have never made, or been forced to make, or have been part of a discussion in which a kid's parent is a deciding factor in whether a kid gets playing time, or what team they will play on. Coaching at the HS level is a complete breath of fresh air for me. I have a group of kids that are not pre-determined. I (and the entire staff) have to make the best of who shows up at try-outs. We work hard to go from zero (in some cases) to 60 in a very short time frame. I get to COACH every day after school for 2 1/2 - 3 hours. I have committed players that I don't have worry about scheduling around little suzies dance lessons, club v-ball, vacations, or s**cer practice. I get to coach my girls for the pride of our school. The teachers that I am fortunate enough to coach with are all talented and 100% dedicated to the team, the school, and the program. I feel fortunate every day to be a part of our team.
Despite what some may think, we try to put the best 9 players on the field, no matter what. That, however, does not overshadow the focus on TEAM. Every player who has the PRIVILEDGE of getting a school uniform is part of something bigger than them. They each have a role, and no matter how big or small they are critical to the team as a whole. Every one of our girls Fresh., JV, and Varsity are all part of the team, and special to me.
Travel ball is 1000% more political, and always will be. It is fun, and it is important, but it is not the "end all, be all". I have met as many (if not more) quality coaches at the HS level than I have in travel. I have said my peace.