I agree the numbers are concerning. Yes, cost is a factor. The other thing I see is that more and more families are not willing to make the investment unless they see their kid as one of the best. If the kids is good, but not great, am I going to make that investment? Local rec leagues are going away were kids have a chance to be part of a team and the values that brings to a young child. Just seems like the attitude is if your not the best, don't make the investment, which is the completely wrong mind set at that age, so many other lessons to learn from being part of a team.