I think that the onus is on parents to be honest and upfront prior to the start of the season. DD is on a TB team, but wanted to do AAU basketball this spring at the school she will be attending next year (private school). Normally, I wouldn't try to do this b/c of the potential for conflicts, but I wanted her to have the chance to meet some girls she'll be with for the next six years. So, I told the basketball coach BEFORE TRYOUTS that when there are conflicts with games/tournaments, softball will be the priority AND provided him with the practice and tournament schedule I had at that moment. They took enough girls on the team (15) so that occasional conflicts for multi-sport athletes wouldn't be a big problem.
Again, open communication is the key to avoid resentment and burning bridges.
Again, open communication is the key to avoid resentment and burning bridges.