I didn't read the article, and don't even know what sports it was citing exactly.

But... we're in last year of the travel ball run.... it ain't $2,500 no more!

Direct costs (dues, fundraising that needs to get covered one way or the other) - more like $6K
Cost of traveling God's green earth in summer and fall - easily another $20K.
Unis, equipment and lessons - I refuse to add up

My daughter fortunately got a full ride, but all told we're certainly not saving the equivalent of 4 years college cost!