I realize that there are good high school programs and bad high school programs all over the country. Same with travel ball. But one thing I know for sure, is that most of the girls that play for me seem to enjoy travel ball much more than high school ball, for various reasons. During the spring we have optional practices during the high school season. It is very common for the players to spend the time prior to practice complaining about their high school experiences. And as I talk to them throughout practice, I often hear a negative comment or two about their programs. As a group we have decided to look at high school ball as pre-season for the game they prefer to play (travel ball). Although optional, they typically come to travel ball practice as an escape and to spend time with their travel ball friends. Even the girls that are not permitted to practice with us (due to their high school rules) show up for practice and sit in the dugout, just to be with the team.
It's unfortunate. As a high school baseball and basketball player, I had a positive experience in both. I had really hoped that my DD would enjoy her experience as well. And to a certain extent, she has. But in a far different way than travel ball. I am sure that she does not regret her decision to play high school ball, but if she had been forced to choose between high school and travel, i have absolutely no doubt what her choice would have been.
It's unfortunate. As a high school baseball and basketball player, I had a positive experience in both. I had really hoped that my DD would enjoy her experience as well. And to a certain extent, she has. But in a far different way than travel ball. I am sure that she does not regret her decision to play high school ball, but if she had been forced to choose between high school and travel, i have absolutely no doubt what her choice would have been.
