My problem with these "invitation-only" exclusive competition-amongst-competitions, particularly the Champions League, is not so much that they are hurting the unity created by Worlds as much as they are sort of perpetuating the same aura of shadiness that made certain industry leaders want to create other options besides USASF Worlds in the first place. Had the "league" been more transparent with the details of who was responsible for forming it, then it would make more sense why certain teams that aren't exactly the best of the best in their respective divisions were invited. It also makes me wonder if certain teams will ever be invited due the "in-crowd only" vibe that this particular event gives off. Of course, the coaches of the teams that actually were invited probably feel that there is nothing at all shady about it, but image is what people on the outside think. I'm pretty sure there are more than a few outsiders who still don't get it.
I'm all for having other Olympic-like options, but every team should have the equal opportunity to qualify for any and all of these events based SOLELY on specific guidelines dealing with pure skill in the current season rather than an expired track record of winning or a history being a fan favorite. As of now, I don't see these types of events advancing our industry as much as I see them ONLY benefiting the big name programs who are already at top of the ladder.
