does anyone really believe that "tryouts" are run as if there is a blank slate of 50 or 70 kids competeing for 30 or 35 spots? I can't imagine anyone really believes that.
my guess would be that at least 75% or more of the team is aready predetermined based off pasts seasons, scoouting reports, summer ball, fall ball and or winter workouts.
my guess is that 50% of the kids trying out are cut regardless of anything that happens just because they aren't athletic enough. lets face it most coaches can watch at least 1/3 of the kids warm and know they can't play at the level needed.
that would leave roughly 15 to 20 kids fighting for roughly 6 to 10 spots that would be really open...some of the numbers may be off slightly but for the most part I think it is pretty close.
Should a returning player be evaluated solely off his performance during the tryouts?
oh no, i agree with the process for the most part. i just had a conversation last night with the parent of a fringe kid and the parent of a no way kid. they are quite upset with process but they at least understand it. i kept my mouth shut, listened and gave that I feel your pain look...but i wouldn't change it.