Alternative isn't a good or bad connotation, just that, an alternative. If teams are looking for the prestige and that level of competition, then, the ASI isn't where it is.
The question was, will it compete with, and my opinion is, not for the teams that traditionally go to the Palmetto Cup. If that is somehow saying that the ASI is "not good enough", then that's your interpretation. By the beginning of your post, you basically acknowledge my point, but honestly, I thought I did it more tactfully than calling teams middle of the pack and up and coming.
I agree, it is a competitive field, that will produce some good soccer matches. Unfortunately, 4 of the best teams in the tournament play each other on Thursday night.