16u and up Showcase teams $$$$$

Bargain compared to some other teams

Based on my experience and knowledge of what teams in other places around the country do, the teams here in NC ,that I am aware of, are relatively inexpensive.
For all the effort that NC teams like the Curve, the Blues, Flames, Storm, Sundevils, Cobras, Cardinals, Dazzle, Wildcats, Lightning, (I could on and on, so If I didn't list you don't be upset with me please) put forth, I think the player fee is a value. Most all the teams here, in this state are in it, not for the money, but for the benefit of the kids.

 

Wow had no idea......
After reading this all I can say is a very sincere thank you for the work Barry Latham has done the past couple of years with our Foothills Heat girls.

 

I agree!!

Barry does a fanastic job with his kids too. I sincerely appreciate his efforts. (not to mention what a fine fellow he is)
My hats off to all those who make this the most wonderful game on earth.

 

you really want to wait to start spending the big bucks until DD has the opportunity to play for a 18u showcase team. It really doesn't make sense for the average family to go into the hole too deeply at 12u, 14u and even 16u. Save the money to pay for personal lessons and college. Play "local" and maybe go to one "big" tournament each season. Figure what a nice, week long family vacation would cost you and let that be a basis for what you should spend.
The summer/fall after her junior year is showcase time. Find a team that will be playing tournaments with the best possibility of getting exposure. You will know then if spending more will be worth it. I've seen a lot of folks invest thousands of dollars and end up with a kid that doesn't even play after a year or two in high school. I know they, and the kid, had fun while he/she did play, but all that money will be missed when those tuition bills start coming.
I understand that some may believe that a girl needs to get exposure earlier then 18u, with players these days committing early. The fact is, no official scholarship offer can be made until the early signing date in November of a player's senior year. If DD is a "studette" during the time I mentioned, she'll get the offers to play.

 

Just to add, the other side of the coin note.

When we played in Cal a couple times last year. What we found is that in the bay area of Cal, at 16 and up, you pay a Min $1000 non refundable fee, just to try out. yes, I said, just to try out. This coming from parents, who live in that area.

We have the same things out here that you have in your area. There are teams that ask for 5K or so, but it covers all travel, they do that as the team is signed up early with flights and hotels to get discounts way in advance and to make sure everybody has flights and stuff. but most are like your area. 500-800, dependant on tourneys. and travel costs are covered by parents. so it is usually not that 5 or 6 thousand dollars either.

We went to Col, cal and some near state but overnight tourneys. I think I spent a total of $2800. Talking with parents, I found this similar throughout the country, with exception to some teams.

There is a team here, that charges that 5k kinda of money. but they have their very own, indoor facility that includes everything you would need for a winter and the coaches (no kids on team) get paid.

So dont get to discouraged, it just depends. do your homework though so pick the right team, for the right reasons.

 

Maybe this is also why so many new teams get started....