Your not wrong about many HS teams, but don't think that things are roundly better in travel - or even college.

You're going to get a lot of comments back here that HS is great for community and friendships and local rivalries and school pride and all that - and that's not wrong. And honestly, for the kid who just wants to compete and have fun - which is the vast majority - I still think it's more often than not a fine experience.

The real difference comes into play if your kid wants to play in college. The coaching isn't necessarily better, and the expenses are 10,000% higher, but at least you can justify that you are chasing her (or your) dream.

But, if your kid finds that great travel ball experience, where they have an excellent coach who is invested in your kid as a player and person, and you get to watch them compete against some of the country's best talent, on the best fields, with the best umps... you really see that HS ball is like a garbage hill compared to the Alps.