Chico:
U19 Aiken? If they are the original team, my bad. I just figured, like all over the country, U19 teams are usually teams where former players bring back new college teammates for one last run. I don't know U19 Aiken that well so if I spoke out of turn, apologies to them.
Money-making? Adding a quarterfinal round and a U14 age group was more enticing for the host city/state association due to extra teams and nights of hotels/income for a bigger kick-back, which host cities/associations do get.
X:
You're right. It was 12 teams (just State Cup winners) with 3 group winners and a WC. Still, 1) only 33% advanced 2) now, more revenue with four more teams per age group AND 3)an age group was added at U14 not long ago. In short, money is a factor.
