I am not saying these parents that feel the need to have their dd play DA did not contribute to them quitting. The mentality that you have to play DA or you are a nobody perpetuates this problem. DA is great for the kids that can juggle school, friends and soccer. But not all kids can and when one area of their life starts to crumble kids start to feel like failures and give up. Maybe these kids will reconsider and join an ECNL, SCDCL or CSL team after the high school break, I don't know.I do know of 1 or 2 girls that have left GDA teams but it was not due to any GDA structure problem or any reason stated above.
I can’t speak much for the boys side....as for the GDA, I believe to say Girls have decided to quite soccer all together because of the DA structure in the 4 - 5 months into its inaugural season is an exaggeration.
As for weakening the leagues, so did Premier and ECNL. Anytime there is an attempt at consolidating talent, you will see this affect.
This is like when and Person who is overweight and has type 2 diabetes because they eat McDonalds and drink soda a week, blames McDonalds for their health problems.
The GDA may not have been necessary nor is it perfect in its first year. Our experience has been great thus far and my DD is stoked. I’m sure she will assess and decide about next year when that time comes. I’ll be there to advise her if she wants it and cheer her on every time she plays.
I know a player that turned down playing on the National team due to grades. Her parents are rational enough to understand their dd's limitations. Unfortunately not all parents are this wise.