There is no argument that putting on a tournament of any size is a VERY monumental task - especially if done properly. However, there were at least four high profile showcase tournaments we used to attend every year that did not charge gate fees OR have cooler restrictions. When DD was playing travel, that was the norm. I know at least three of these tournaments are still going strong, so they must know some secrets to funds management!
Admittedly, one of them (Stingrays) now has a token parking charge - but that's strictly OSU doing the charging, and I'm told Stingrays gets nothing from that. Believe me, I don't think you can park
anywhere on OSU property without paying or having a parking pass. In spite of that, I challenge anyone to find a nicer venue for a tournament.
Maybe it's just the rebel in me, but I get very irritated when I feel I'm being taken advantage of. But hey - it's a free country, and I believe in "voting with my wallet".
P.S. A note on the ice: DD's 16u at Compuware was 90+ degree weather. Her catcher was soaking towels in an
ice filled cooler (no charge) between innings. Contrast this to a "cooler police" Softball World venue: Stand in line at severely understaffed concession stand for 15+ minutes to pay for bottled water and
no ice. "Team" coolers in dugouts had warm water with unknown debris floating in it
. Management was indifferent... Still pi$$ed that ANYONE would treat their customers - especially KIDS - with such disdain! Think about where YOU want to send your DD, and where you want to spend your hard earned dollars...
It's a slippery slope folks! Next will be "preferred" (read: FORCED) hotels you must stay in to attend the tournament.