All very valid points Striker. Trust that I meant no slight. Honestly, I have no experience with ECNL, except mine being asked to DP. The substitution thing, I get. The 10 month commitment is what it is. That's the nature of our youth sports landscape now. In nearly every sport! Agree or disagree, it's simply the truth. I personally don't prefer it. I long for the days (like when I was a teen) where you could be a multi sport athlete, no conflict. I also agree, the player MUST be intrinsically motivated, or it could very well be a waste of time and sacrifice. The decision is 100% my DD's. I could care less what the club or coach pushes for or says where she should be. Who knows, we could be relocating to play ECNL in lieu of DA. I, like a lot of others out there, am very curious how this will all shake out. Best of luck to you and your DD. Whatever works out, is meant to be. If you believe in that line of thought.