Good post CM.
Agreed what is important at 17,18,19 is a lot different than at 21. That's why I am not really into early commitments.
Your son was not a quitter.
That's a lot different than the player who hits a road block and wants out, asap. Part of the growing up process is to try to live up to your commitment and try to make it work, as your son tried to do. Sometimes it's just not going to. No problem with that.
Years ago the thought was if it doesn't work out I will ask for a transfer. We didn't believe in that philosophy even with ease of transfer to D1.
That's why it's more important than ever to try, the best you can to find the right fit (consider all aspects). Academic fit is just as important as the baseball fit. Social fit is also important. Geographical fit is important as well. So is economic fit.
JMO
That's why it's important, as OB44 posted to prepare your player for the road ahead.