What's the ideal number of tournaments to play for player development, IYO? Most parents/players don't pick teams based on this, and most teams play around 15 (+/-3) because that's what everybody else does.
DD is a HS junior who is on track to play college softball. Her TB team is full of similar, college-committed players.
Schedule was announced recently, and they are slated to play only 10 tournaments.
I've come to think that TB players put too much time into tournaments and games and less into development, so I guess this will be a chance to test that theory.
The reason I think games are overrated is largely the nature of the sport. I wouldn't say the same about basketball or tennis. Softball doesn't provide much individual action. You can spend 3 full days for 12 at-bats and 4 fly balls.
Another reason I believe a lighter schedule is better is that it helps prevent burnout and allows kids to be more well-rounded and to make their own schedules.
For this theory to work, a player must be dedicated to working hard on her own, and she must have the resources to do that. If there's no one to train with (that's usually a knowledgeable, available parent), you'd probably be better playing more tournaments. The availability of private instruction also can be key, and not all can afford that.
DD is a HS junior who is on track to play college softball. Her TB team is full of similar, college-committed players.
Schedule was announced recently, and they are slated to play only 10 tournaments.
I've come to think that TB players put too much time into tournaments and games and less into development, so I guess this will be a chance to test that theory.
The reason I think games are overrated is largely the nature of the sport. I wouldn't say the same about basketball or tennis. Softball doesn't provide much individual action. You can spend 3 full days for 12 at-bats and 4 fly balls.
Another reason I believe a lighter schedule is better is that it helps prevent burnout and allows kids to be more well-rounded and to make their own schedules.
For this theory to work, a player must be dedicated to working hard on her own, and she must have the resources to do that. If there's no one to train with (that's usually a knowledgeable, available parent), you'd probably be better playing more tournaments. The availability of private instruction also can be key, and not all can afford that.