[The_Messenger]

Unfortunately the 16th Region is on a little down cycle right now. I don't believe any of the tops teams this year (Ashland, Boyd Co., Morgan Co.) would beat the Ashland teams of three or four years ago. Things run in cycles so I think it will turn around but not for a few more years. I think the biggest questions is "Does some of the younger talent in the region stay in the 16th Region?"

The problem with a lot of teams in the 16th Region is not the lack of competition. A good coach that cares about player development can go out and schedule good teams (outside the Region) instead of chasing wins. But I think the real problem is the lack of depth on team's rosters. Teams play games twice a week (sometimes three time a week) where they practice 3 or 4 times a week. If good young players are not pushed in practice with other good players in their position, then they are not going to reach their potential. They have to practice against good talent. That is why a lot of players (and parents) with hopes of playing at the next level will gamble on themselves and go to places that will push them. Of course this is just my opinion and my opinion doesn't carry any more weight than the next guy. LOL!!