For any coaches of 10-12 YO's

It all depends on what you promised folks. People choose from among travel teams based on what they were promised. Your job is to keep your word.

Personally I liked to keep a small roster so that we could play everyone most of the time. We got down to 11 stalwarts, almost all of whom could pitch at least some in a pinch. Everyone had to be prepared to play their primary position and a secondary position, but not necessarily every position. We worked it out for the most part to bat 11 in the order and then run kids in and out of the field at will to equallize playing time. It took some planning but it does work, and it can work with 12, too.

I think 10-12 is too young to be consigning players to the bench due to performance. Either you want them on the team, or you don't. If they commit to you, you should commit to them. It's your job to help them get better, and no one gets better sitting the bench.

Winning at this age is something you strive for, but it is secondary to learning. Trust me, 6 years from now when they're in HS ball and trying to get a college team to take interest, no one will remember or care whether you won or lost, and all the trophies that are given out like candy these days will have long since hit the trash bin. But whether they achieve their goals could well turn on how good of a teacher and role model you were.

Super words of wisdom Midlo, I appreciate it!

This is a select team. You picked 'em, you play 'em.

MD gives some sound advice. I won't waste time repeating it.