I agree with your point regarding Cal South’s mislabeling. I disagree with any suggestion that the girls are “more sensitive.” Cal South and the clubs have simply figured out that the parents in the girls soccer market are willing to pay more for this garbage.
Looks like the fee for entry is $995 for a team based on the link below.
Looking at the average games played by the new academy (6.5 games), the cost comes in at $153 per game which is lower per game than the standard ~$695 SoCal tournament at 3-4 games per game cost (~$198). Add in ref fees and you're about on par.
Not arguing for or against it, and yes it is more cash in CalSouth's pocket, but from the consumer side its costs is on par with what the market accepts in SoCal. If it is in place of a late summer tournament, e.g., players cup, the cost is pretty much a wash. It'll be interesting to see where it goes or if it grows.
https://www.californiaregionalleague.com/en/faqs/