Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don't think that it's only about missing specific events, but what about free play/free time? Everything a kid/teen does now a days is always an organized event.

Depends on the kid. It’s more an issue for an older kid who plays multiple sports at a competitive level. But for us, our travel athlete has a very intense season (spring through early summer) but the rest of the year is much more chill.

No matter the kids age or whether or not they actually like these types of activities, free time is so important. I don't think kids get nearly enough.

Travel sports are typically a couple practices a week and tournaments here and there. How much free time do you think a kid needs?

The ppl I know that have their kids in travel sports are far busier than that. It seems like it's a constant thing. As far as free time, when I was growing up alot of my time was free time. Aside from school/chores as was alot of kids I grew up with. Activities weren't a huge deal.

That is your perception of their life and probably not their reality.

While some free time is important for development, too much free time can also be a detriment.

I totally agree with the comment that this is your perception more than their reality. I have one kid in a very high intensity sport and one in a travel sport plus club swimming. They are "busy" with sports and give things up for their sports, but have plenty of time to just be kids. We coordinate birthday parties with close friends and they avoid missing them. We miss practices or games for important family events and make sure the kids have down time at home. While kids may occasionally be dragged to a siblings game, practice of event, they're not missing out on their own events for their sibling and they can use that time to play on a playground or read.

Is not a bad life for my kids and we're not making changes because other people wish we were available on their schedule.

Mdmom22 wrote:Try DeMatha FC (Hyattsville) and Brookland FC.

Probably a lesser time commitment (twice a week practice) but professional coaches. Their teams aren't the most competitive (lower levels of NCSL) but probably shouldn't care too much about that at that age.

May I ask how soon after you tried out at Achilles did you get the invitation?

Thanks!

We’re at Brookland FC and really like it. Tryouts are tomorrow but I’m happy to answer any questions.