I don't disagree with what fanofgame has stated. But just want to throw out some thoughts about labels (D1, D2, D3, etc) that might be helpful to some having mixed-emotions over these type of experiences e.g., bumping down or seeing someone come on to the roster.
A kid who is bumping down may not have been a D1 caliber player in the first place. Likewise, a kid who is currently on a D3 roster (or other level) may in fact be better than many of the so-called D1 kids out there. Of course, there may in fact be kids who are now being bumped off the bottom of a roster somewhere but that is not my point.
There are many reasons other than skill (e.g., academics or exposure) why one kid may have started out at one level or another. I guess my point is at the college level you are going to have to beat out somebody who is very good no matter what the level. There are only so many starting positions out there across all levels and that fact has not changed due to the new rules. The chances of PLAYING in college at any level are the same as they always have been. The chances of remaining on the roster have changed however. Either way (old system or new) it is going to be a battle to get out there on the field.
To quote ob44 from another thread today:
quote:
We all want to believe that our son's are "The only One"...and maybe sometimes they are...but the numbers alone will tell you that they are more likley one of a number of very good players a school is looking at/juggling. We say this over and over...The process is not over until the paperwork is signed, admissions and financial details finalized.
The second thing to remember is that "signed. sealed, and delivered" is only the entre. I am hearing more and more players that arrived at college unprepared, physically and emotionally for the realities of playing college ball. Enjoy that last year of HS...revel in your good fortune, celebrate, cheer, but make no mistake...When you step onto that field/weight room for the first time the honeymoon is over. You are but one of many VERY talented, very experienced players fighting for limited spots. They would not have taken you if they didn't believe in your ability to compete, but compete is the optimum term. The step up is very large, your clippings/rep no longer mean(s) anything, and you need to bring your A game and come fully prepared to compete at a new level from Day 1.