Can I comment?
Well, I will anyway.
I don't know if there is any truth to the merger rumor, but I will say this...
DBAT has grown from an instructional facility into a multi functional operating business.
I can remember the night I met with Cade in his dirty apartment. He was excited what was to come and wanted all involved to be as well. He gave each instructor a free glove and a place to earn a living.
Over the years, DBAT has added wood bats, clothing, equipment, camps, leagues, and the topic of this thread............teams.
It's obvious the success that has come with each venture.
How many other baseball facilities do you know that has had the finacial stability and operational success of DBAT? For that matter, how many even stay in business?
My point is, Cade and Kyle Griffis are pretty sharp individuals when it comes to new ideas for amatuer baseball. Now their deer hunting decisions may be left to question.
Do they make decisions for a profit? Of course. But in my opinion if they can feed their families in trade for the thousands of families they've helped..........I'm alright with that.
Just a few years ago, I was part of a merger with DBAT and the Knights. I'd like to think that those teams added to the national recognition that DBAT teams have today.
If a new merger is upon us, I think the thought process behind it be well thought out and a plan will be in place.
For those who fear some players will be outcasts...
Guess again.
If a player is removed from any team, he plays for another which makes that team better or worse.
If 15 players are removed from a so called "A" team, those 15 players will make up another "A" team. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if several new organizations are a direct result of a possible merger. Those organizations may bring a better product than what's been in place. Who knows?
When it's all said and done, Cade and Kyle (and even Kirk) are good people. They want what's best for their families, young aspiring baseball players, and amatuer baseball in the DFW community.
As for Shayne and the Marshal's, can't speak for much other than the product on the field. I was always impressed with the organization and presence shown by them.
As for Sam and the Mustangs, I'd hate to see the target removed. I loved coaching against them because they had my respect. (and Cade, I don't think any team I coached lost to them. For you, I understand the "if you can't beat them, join them" approach if that's what your doing.
)
I don't always see eye to eye with Cade on some issues, but we usually hash those out at deer camp or at the regional tournament. I believe our disagreements only help the friendship we've shared for so long.
Bottom line here folks, as long as the important issues remain at the forefront of any decision, the outcome will be successful.
That is to develop young men, teach discipline and responsibilty, and promote amatuer baseball under the "team" concept.
