This is the silver lining (although perhaps we might say somewhat tarnished silver): his coach is reasonable, and appreciates him, and while not entirely positive, I think will push him to get better over the season. He is currently still getting development, although if they don't find alternatives ways to play competitive games, that might be an issue over the course of the season. I think we'll also certainly explore other options next year, unless something changes dramatically between now and then; the best coach in the world can't compensate for not getting competitive game experience, and I cannot image most of the kids (and parents) not being frustrated after this season, given the "best case scenario" for the club next year is only EA (which has the exact same problems). I image the club teams will see significant attrition next year.
Maybe we'll go back to AYSO Extra, and focus on other things; also an option. I like my son's current coach, but not enough to pay $6k+ for another year of essentially just regular practice sessions, and that's all a club with only access to EA/EA2 seems to be capable of providing, given the quality of clubs and teams in those leagues. That's my current perspective, anyway.
