Very kind. Being generous without creating dependency is wise. The number of ways large lump sums given to any one charity could go wrong is countless, unless you are heavily involved and committed long term.
Our wealthiest athletes can afford to play at the highest level. Parents pay so there is incentive to keep fat rosters and multi-tiered “highest level”. If players were seen as assets like they are in Europe and clubs paid for training and transfers and got a cut of players professional contract...
I thought it was catawpa. Haven’t seen one since my grandpa had one in Vicksburg. Used to get tons of bait from it. He’d freeze them and thaw them when needed.
Two biggies:
Pay to play (i.e you are getting the best athletes who can afford to pay for travel ball starting about 10)
Lack of consistent coaching structure and access to trained coaches. Early development is left up to whoever couldn't wiggle out of having to "coach" their kid, and if you...