Why do schools get away with this? Here is why. From the linked article
"Virginia Tech's missteps may cost them a chance at another player in the Knight household."
May cost? The parents and the sister might consider VT after this? The article should read the misstep for sure cost VT a chance at the younger sister. The parents should say that a VT coach should never consider speaking to the younger dd.
This is why you can't count on softball paying for your child's education, this is why academics are so important. Good grades give you more flexibility and more control over your dd's education and future.
I might be in the minority, but education comes before sports always.