A possible point that was touched on, (Mattern, and there were others), but probably not fully understood.
A player who has played for years with a U17 team, but due to age bracketing, happens to graduate from high school, prior to the U18 season and then plays the freshman year in college. NCAA rules prohibit club play, until the college season is completed, which is normally prior to state cup. Player is on the roster either at the beginning of the season, but at a minimum prior to roster freeze. Plays in the state cup, therefore is able to sign the roster sheet to be able to participate in Regionals. Team wins the state cup and qualifies. Now this player has summer training and competitive play between their freshman and sophomore season.
