I know this is a pre high school question, but I would like to hear from some of the parents and/or players that went through it in Arizona.

My son is 12 and has played 14U in the past. He was able to compete and play with those guys. This spring he went back down to his age, 12U, and is really knocking the cover off the ball. My question is, has anyone experienced this before?

He is going to be looking for a new team in the fall. His current coaches are going to play 11U and we are trying to decide if we should go back to playing up or stay with his age group and dominate?

Any feedback or experiences would be appreciated from the AZ crowd.

Until a player is 13 and on the bigger field, I see very little advantage (and lots of disadvantage) in playing up. And, in the end, you derive very little benefit from it. There is nothing wrong (and a lot right) about being a star at your own level. Patience is a virture here with great benefit. And, most importantly, if you have a 12 year old competing at the same level as the 14 year olds in Phoenix, then I can truthfully say you a playing with and against the wrong 14 year olds.

quote:

if you have a 12 year old competing at the same level as the 14 year olds in Phoenix, then I can truthfully say you a playing with and against the wrong 14 year olds.

Jemaz,
Thanks for the info. I hadn't really thought about it from that viewpoint before. He was playing with and against 14U American players. Definately not the cream of the crop in Phoenix.

It looks like we are going to play for the 13U Mudhens this year. If you get to a tournament, look for the tall blondie who runs like the wind and flat out thumps the ball.

He hit one out at Victory Lane over Memorial day weekend. I can't stop bragging about it!

I will do that, and best of luck.