1) DD started travel ball as a 2nd year 12u. I think first year 12u would have been ideal for her. Everything has worked out fine, but the transition to 14u after only 1 year of travel ball was difficult. Of course, that may have played to her favor as well.
2) During her first 2 or 3 years of travel ball, I was one of those overbearing parents that many threads are started about. Eventually I learned the error in my ways and changed for the better (I think). In my opinion, DD and I have a much better relationship now, and our family is much happier as well. I wish I would have learned that lesson sooner.
3) I would have not become a coach. I love coaching. I love working with the players (especially hitting). But there have been a lot of sacrifices that have been made as a result. The personal sacrifices are fine. But there have been several opportunities that DD has passed up because of our families commitment to the "team", the other players, and their families. While many people out there make decisions with only their daughter as the primary stakeholder, we have made numerous decisions over the years with the "team" as the focus. And I am concerned that this has held DD back to a certain extent.
Overall we have been very happy with our travel ball experience. We had one terrible season that I have posted about before and won't bore anyone with again. Otherwise, we have been involved with two tremendous organizations, with great players, and wonderful families. I have enjoyed the process. And most importantly I have enjoyed the valuable time I have been blessed to spend with DD. I would never trade that for anything. But there was one opportunity in particular that I often wonder about. What if?
Andy, I would agree with everything you said except #3. Not the loving coaching part, but about how you or your daughter may have sacrificed something. I completely disagree! Your DD found where she needs to be playing at a school she wants to be at in the end. No matter what you wanted, it's her journey and as long as she's happy, that's all that matters. As far as I'm concerned, you were a HUGE success!
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