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| (Photo from IndyStar: Photo provided by John Kotzelnick) |
Following up on my earlier post of early commitments, this story from the Indianapolis Star popped up in my news feed. It immediately drew my attention. What is is about an 8th grader that catches a Division I, collegiate softball program's attention?
Most girls this age haven't even developed into the body that they will most likely be playing with in college (although there are some early developers). But even so, there are so many other factors that are changing: hormones, emotions, mental toughness, preferences.
Right now, an 8th grader might love to go to Alabama to play softball for them. But would a Southern Cali-raised girl enjoy the new environment that Alabama has to offer? Humidity, RAIN, culture, etc. She could change her mind by the time she's in 10th grade, then again in 12th.
But what are verbal commitments? They are just that. A non-binding agreement (since it's technically not allowed) where the school and or player can change their mind at any time. So why is it such a big deal? Why do people place so much hype on VERBAL COMMITMENTS? Because unfortunately, parents want to show-off. Yes, PARENTS. I mean when your neighbor says their son got a full ride scholarship to UCLA, you just want to throw something back at them, and "my 13-year old daughter verbally committed to Washington" does fill that need.
Well I just wanted to throw this up so you can think about it. Write some comments if you feel so inclined!
