The fairness - or non-fairness - of player cuts during Tryouts has generated a lot of votes - and a lot of comments! Through specific choices we wanted to see if you supported cuts in general (or not). We also offered options to see if you wanted restrictions on whether an association/league could build select teams without taking responsibility for those cut players.

Replies were almost all from coaches. Some results were no surprise: coaches of older teams are stronger believers in cuts and rep teams, coaches of younger teams are more likely to want a no-cut policy. Other results: all ages want to see associations have house league, but few want to force rep teams to be tied to house-league associations (but older coaches more in favour perhaps because they're more likely to confront a strong independent rep team). Also, 12-and-under coaches favour farm teams but 13-and-up coaches lean more to mixed age groups.

NO CUT SUPPORTERS...

Every child should have the opportunity to play America's greatest sport. In our town, we have competitive and non-competitive leagues to match players' abilities and desires.
- unnamed

Every youth sports league should try and accomodate the recreational player. This is the essence of teaching wellness. 'House' teams are for the 'let's have fun and learn' player. 'Travelling' or 'tournament' teams are for those interested in the more competitive aspect of player developement. There is a place for both.
- Bob Parkin

We require every 12 year old be drafted onto a team. We have a separate 12 year old draft prior to the 10-11 draft. All 10-11s not drafted onto a [rep] team are guaranteed a spot on a farm team.
- Joe Frisino

No cuts but more training and teaching at the fundamental level to increase self esteem, and then ability. Make some sort of concessions for the less naturally talented. Find a way to let them contribute.
- Gregg Stepp

Young kids can learn quick. Last season one of my worst players at the start ended up being one of my best players in the end, in fielding and hitting.
- unnamed

I'm a believer in keeping kids off the streets.
- unnamed

CUTS NECESSARY...

[Cuts are] the hardest thing I have to do, so when I draft boys with what seems the potential to make the squad, I let them know upfront there are no guarantees of actually staying with the team. This does help a little when it comes time for cuts.
- unnamed

If cuts are necessary, evaluation should be by 4 individuals unrelated to the team plus the team manager. Explain tryout process to kids and parents before it starts, and each skill should be performed many times before any decision is made.
- unnamed

The problem is not so much in cutting players, but in getting parents to realize that maybe their son either should play in a less competitive league, train harder in the off-season, or worst of all, the player has reached the end of the line with baseball. I have told parents that I may be making a mistake, but at this time your son doesn't have it at this level.
- unnamed