Ok here is what i am getting:
1. USASf has the rule they believe is needed for a greater good but they can't have an appeals process or enforce it because of limited resources.
2. Some gyms want the rule to avoid losing kids to more successful gyms mid season.
3. Parents dont like the rule "mostly" because there is no appeals process and can lead to abuse.
This is what I suggest to satisfy all of the above:
The USASF mandates that all gym owners have a company policy of what situations they WILL NOT release an athlete (Their policy is totally up to them)
ex:
Gym A reasons not to release: "none" if you want to leave we will give you a release and wish you well
Gym B reasons not to release: "all" it is our policy once you compete with us we will not sign any releases
Gym C reasons not to release: money owed, you go to gym A (we hate them), you are kicked off for 5 or more absences, etc, etc
Now every gym must have their policy signed and dated by the parent before the first competition. The USASF would have an appeal process that would be very black and white.
1. does gym have signed release policy
2. if so did kid leave for a reason not on the policy...if yes kid is released if no kid is not
3. loser pays 50.00