Hurst,
Actually, I don't really have too much of an opinion one way or the other about 8v8 vs 11v11. I can see both sides, but I think more importantly is the level of the boys you are working with. If that particular team had more (or any) competition, I would say that they should have stayed down.
Okay, I will back down a tad. I feel the coach's FIRST responsibility would be to his players, while keeping in mind the needs of the larger community (the State). If there is a good compromise, great - otherwise, your own players come first.
Oh, BTW, not sure if you are just being general, but neither Bridge team is "mine." I just happen to know some of the "players" involved.
