Only for those whose coaches choose to play 80 games in a spring/summer. This is our first year playing travel ball (with a max of about 35-40 games) after being unhappy with the rec ball experience last year and I have seen my son grow more in 3 games than an entire spring and then summer of all stars. Travel ball is not for everyone, but so far I am incredibly pleased. As it is with whatever sport one chooses for you child, it is the coaching and the parents who will influence their experience. Keep it positive, keep it fun and remember it is for the kids, not the parents. No matter what.