[RunItUpTheGut]

I think a lot of has to do with a lack of "Recruiting" when you talk about a numbers drop from 8th to 9th grade.

1. If the HS coach isn't around the MS team then there is a fear of the unknown. Kids just see HS coach as this big mean imposing figure. HS coach needs to be around MS team as much as possible and let those kids know that they are already a part of that schools "Program".

2. Too many coaches have the opinion that if they want to play they'll come to me, they never "recruit" their own hallways and middle schools. Their are boys walking up and down the halls of every school that would play and could help the team if someone just asked them to come out and try.

Great post Jumper.
I believe the MOST important thing all relies on the relationship the middle school and high school coach have. If a kid hears "its gonna be great when you get in high school and youll love it" while hes playing middle school football while hes there hes more than likely gonna play high school.
If a kid heres his middle school coach belittling the high school than there gonna favor them because thats THERE coach.

Good point Jumper