[Hound05]

Our middle school was left out of a conference, but in all honesty it was the best move because now the level of teams we play are much better. They’ve gone from playing teams such as Whitley and the laurel county teams, to playing bowling green, Johnson central, and many notable state powers. Not being in a conference has reduced two games that we would’ve normally played. I’m a fan of playing in the state tournament because I don’t think it hurts. But the benefits of it is playing really solid teams throughout the state, getting your kids used to playing on a bigger stage, etc.

I agree, it can do nothing but help get kids ready for the next level by playing on a big stage against good teams. Playing teams that you’re gonna beat by 40 in the regular season does nothing to better either team. Plus you get bragging rights and kids will never forget the experience. I know mine won’t.