I only have daughters, but have a nephew who is now a junior playing for one of the most competitive high school teams in the country.

Having attended one of his "summer sessions" a few weeks ago, I would have serious reservations about letting my child play. Many of these programs here in New Jersey are run like big time college programs. During the school year, these kids have two practices during the week; 6:00AM-8:00AM and 2:30PM-5:00PM. When do they have time to study?

Also, all of the upperclassmen on the team will be playing Division I football (Penn State, Notre Dame, Boston College, Florida State, Stanford, Temple, UConn). All of these kids are big, fast and ridiculously strong. They are such accomplished athletes that many local schools will not schedule games with them for fear that the kids on their team will be severely injured. I think they're right. The team travels to play schools from FL, PA and TX in addition to their NJ schedule. They also play a CA powerhouse every other year, I believe.

I remember when I was a kid and there would always been an ambulance at the high school game. Back then, I don't remember it ever being used. At my nephew's games, there is an ambulance, doctor, and orthopedist on the sidelines at all times and, believe me, they get a work out.

I am sure most high school programs are not run this way, but it was an eye opening experience for me. It is definitely a tough call for many parents to make.