how do coaches/parents do it?

marlinfan1 · Jan 30, 2010 at 6:56 PM

LBlues 1 said: ↑

No where in any of these post concerning cost, etc have we really hit on "value of dollars spent"! As we look at purchasing services, products, education, and yes our home, we always evaluate what we are going to get in return for the amount of money it will take to buy the a fore mentioned items.
Also, do the posters know the actual cost of playing for the various teams including the "elite" teams as we have labeled them. Our teams have played locally, tri-state, and nationally and as I stated in my interview with Cheese, it can cost you as much or as little as you want to spend. If you want to eat out every meal at the top restaurants, stay in the top hotels, and take non-stop flights and not seeking deals that include going out of airports that may be a couple hours from your home, you can spend considerable money.
If you plan ahead, my parents knew in late November what our entire schedule was for 2010 and knew the main events before our fall schedule began. It gives them almost 9 months to book hotels, flights, etc.
Now let's speak value without providing an advertisement as I am not going to be accused of touting my team as there are other organizations in and outside of NC that do many of the same things we do. The first year of our team starting showcase ball in 2003, all three seniors committed to play D-11 ball at CAC and SAC teams, 2004, two D-1 and four D-11, since that time, we are over 60% D-1 and our average scholarship is well over $10,000 a year. This past year 6 of 7 committed were D-1 and the average was much higher. Now D-1 is not for everyone and as has been posted many times, the quality of ball played at D-11 and D-111 levels can be and is exceptional. After all you go where the love is, not what D-level it might be.
My point, we all are suffering with the economy and I understand more than you know and we have decided to go to Eastern ASA and not Nationals due to cost but we will never give up Boulder as it is the single most important tourney even for LOCAL kids wanting to attend upper level LOCAL schools. Most of you do not believe that and that is OK, we will keep playing the best schedule we can to prepare our kids and will continue to support all of NC softball and allow all others to have their own system without criticism of their efforts. We chose our path after extensive study of the game, college coaches schedules, and observing the organization with the most success here in NC and nationally. Parents decide value, not me, I only provide services that I believe are reasonable based on the percentage of return and do not profit financially what so ever. However, I do profit by getting to be a part of some awesome families lives and watching some special young ladies succeed! Also, I meet some wonderful coaches,college, HS, and travel, and have made unreal relationships that will last till death.
This board provides some great discussions, insightful comments, and a great way to recognize quality kids and coaches and a opportunity to voice opinions on all kinds of subjects, agree and disagree.
Thanks to all that created this forum and for all of you who take the time to provide your thoughts, events, and opinions.
Click to expand...

......Props RT, you are a very wise man. Thanks go out to you also brother.
Fishman

Dukedog4 · Feb 1, 2010 at 1:51 PM

Money for what?

This is a great thread. We finished the TB circuit in '05 so the economy has changed dramatically. We played for a team that played every weekend, using 'trophy tournaments' as warmups for the showcases. It was great for us. We did go without summer vacations and, that alone, virtually paid for ball. Our coach was also good about limiting expenses (no fancy uni's, the college coaches really don't care!).

Since I don't fish, golf or care for the beach I never saw it as any sacrifice. From an early age my DD was happiest when she was in the circle and watching her perform was one of the most enjoyable experiences a Dad could have. Folks, 'you can't take it with you'. Spend the money. If it means eating at home instead of Longhorn or driving a car with 140K (like I currently do) do it.

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