there is a lot of discussion on this. many will tell you that the colleges go to 18u, others will tell you 16u. A lot depends on what size school you are looking for, as well as the direction and focus of the team.
There is something to be said to be on a strong (older) 16u, winning tournaments and finishing high at a nationals. This would be great exposure - especially, if the alternative is playing on a younger 18u, not finishing late on Sunday and if you do qualify, then going home early at Nationals.
My personal opinion is that a player should play at the level that they are best suited to play at. This means at 16u for a 17 year old spring baby who is not as strong, and at 18u for that 16u eligible stud.
There is the whole team chemistry thing, too, but you only have so many years to be seen, and wasting a year just doesnt make sense.
My position on my team is that if you have committed to us, and then feel that we are not right for you - thinking that you'd pefer to play elsewhere, just let me know. There is no sense in having a lousy season - and losing that year - just because of the commitment
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