All-Star Gym/team Shopping

[cheerisgood]

there are threads about leaving gyms, buying gyms, etc. here's a question. how do you all (coaches and parents alike) feel about gym/team shopping? In other words, trying out at multiple gyms to see which team(s) you are placed on and then deciding on which gym you join, based on the team. As consumers we all have choices, but this kinda bugs me. thoughts??

 

[sun77]

Why does it bug you? It's a full-year and multi-thousand dollar commitment. Why wouldn't it be okay to make sure you're on a team that's the best fit for you?

My CP is trying out for two programs as a new athlete with a goal of making a worlds-eligible team. While it won't be the only reason, it will certainly factor into her decision if she makes one team that's worlds-eligible and one team that isn't. To be fair, though, we've made it clear to both gyms that she's trying out both places.

 

[cheerisgood]

Why does it bug you? It's a full-year and multi-thousand dollar commitment. Why wouldn't it be okay to make sure you're on a team that's the best fit for you?

My CP is trying out for two programs as a new athlete with a goal of making a worlds-eligible team. While it won't be the only reason, it will certainly factor into her decision if she makes one team that's worlds-eligible and one team that isn't. To be fair, though, we've made it clear to both gyms that she's trying out both places.

I've hightlighted the sentence that makes a difference and why it bugs me. cuz often it's not disclosed. if you have clear goals and communicate it, sure then, go for it. Also, i am well aware of the commitment...there's also a little thing called loyalty. Anyway, i gave my opinion and asked for others....go on.

 

[NJ Coach]

I don't mind it, as long as I know about it. It's tough making teams with what you think you have, only to find out later you don't have what you thought.

 

[redsmom]

I don't think it is that big of a deal, personally. I feel like the try-out process is so early in the game and there are so many changes to a team over the summer (at least in my experience) that it really shouldn't overly impact a gym. Seems like a lot of gyms are over-rostering teams anyway (see the Georgia Allstars thread), so I think they are prepared to deal with the handful of "shoppers".

 

[imrichhowboutu]

I think it is fine to see what other places are about. I'm not sure about trying out at multiple locations. But instead, visiting gyms towards the end of the season to see how they operate.

 

[flcheermom]

I think it depends on the reasons. For some, they may be new in town, so they are trying to decide what gym fits them best, for others they may be switching gyms, and trying out at different gyms before they make a final decision. I know you specifically stated to see what "team" they are placed on, so to me that indicates they are trying out at different gyms solely to see if they are placed on the "best" team at the gym - whatever level that may be. It's not something we have done, or will do - but it happens in a lot of youth sports. I have seen it on the club soccer level - boys will try out at different clubs until they are satisfied they are put on the top level travel team. There usually isnt much that can be done, as those type usually are not loyal anywhere, and move around alot. I do think if a person is honest and says we are trying out at a few different places to find the best fit, then there is nothing wrong with that. I think it all depends on what they are looking for, and what each gym has to offer. Its a business, and when parents are spending alot of money - they will shop around for the best fit - whether others agree with how they are doing it.