I get the feeling you are moving the goalposts a little here.
You go from what comes across as somewhat of a vindictive reason not to add clubs:
"Because the clubs that did all the work and put all the money in have no incentive to let those that didn’t enjoy the benefit of hard work and financial risk taking. Because the clubs that didn’t do the hard work and take the financial risks have no entitlement to anything. Because clubs like Surf, Blues and Slammers have already proven they develop talent and provide value, and they don’t care how much people who aren’t willing to pay for it whine."
To ECNL is under no legal obligation to add teams.
Of course ECNL is under no legal obligation to add teams and does anybody really need to research their bylaws to agree with that? You are stating a fact that no one has disputed. This is, however, about an opportunity to finally get the top teams in Southern California, under 1 platform, to play each other and elevate the league.
I'm sure parents that have been through this process can attest to the importance of your Club's coaches in the recruiting process. They are the link between colleges and players. Those that have a solid reputation and track record of producing top talent will give their players the nod over the coaches that do not.
So unless and until these coaches at top GDA Clubs leave, there will not be this mass exodus of players that many are predicting. A few will certainly leave but those with aspirations will still go to the top clubs in ECNL that have those college connections (LAFC, Surf & Blues). Meaning the ECNL SW stays top heavy with results for 80% of their games being 8-0 instead of 4-0.
Again this is not about entitlement, legal or even moral obligation of anyone. But wouldn't it be nice if the ECNL SW division had: LAFC, Surf, Beach, Legends, Blues, RSC, LAG, Heat FC, Phoenix Rising, Slammers playing against each other every weekend? Tell me how that does not "Raise the Game..."