Love all your points. On point 4 - we use spring trip as a team building tool. In those eight days, we play 14 games and practice in between. We find out more about a kid after traveling, rooming, eating and lights out with everyone. Of course, if the parents show up they can take their kid to dinner, with permission. Lots of stories come out of those trips..... some good and some bad, but it's truly what carries you through the season.